I never paid much attention to these cuts and nicks skinning til last year....i'm not sure what did it, but this time last year a finger on my right hand started to hurt, within two days that finger was 2x its normal size, I went to the Dr. and recieved some antibiotics....the next morning when I woke up my whole hand was 3x its normal size, and I had a red streak running up my arm to my armpit.

I went to the Dr. again that morning, and was admitted to the hospital.

After 4 days of 'round the clock IV antibiotics I was released from the hospital.

It scared the heck out of me, and i'm alot more careful now when i'm skinning.

I think this hand deal probably stemmed from skinning cats.

I've had contact dermitits several times. It is awful, especially being a hunter and trapper. My problem is I am allergic to wet plants!! Tukey season can be just one giant itch!!!

Have you tried any Benadryl yet? Try some topical cream on your skin and Benadryl pills for the rash. Be careful! Benadryl can cause severe drowsiness. It is also used for over the counter sleeping pills!

If your family hasn't been affected it probably is not a critter, but I am not a doctor. Usually critters will make the rounds through the family.

I hope you get some relief soon. The itching is enough to drive you crazy!! We used to put perfume on the itches when we were growing up. Sounds silly, but it would make them hurt and not itch.