Dermatology

Alopecia X is a name given to a skin condition in the dog resulting in non-inflammatory hair loss. Other names used for the same condition have included adrenal sex hormone imbalance, wooly syndrome, coat funk, black skin disease, pseudo-cushings, and follicular growth dysfunction of plush coated breeds. I now call this alopecic condition hair cycle arrest (HCA), as this name describes what has happened; the hair cycle has stopped and there is a cessation…

  One of the most common reasons pets go to the veterinarian is the dreaded ear infection. There are three type of ear infections: external canal (Otitis externa, OE), middle ear (Otitis media, OM), and the inner ear or brain (Otitis interna, OI). In this post, we’re mostly discussing OE and OM, which account for many ear infections.     Signs of an Ear Infection Ear infections can be quite painful for your pet, so you’ll most likely notice signs of discomfort. Some more…

Hypersensitivity to house dust mites is a common problem for dogs, cats as well as people.  House dust mites are microscopic and ubiquitous.  They feed on human and animal dander, skin scales and hair.  They are frequently found in beds, mattresses, carpets, sofas and pet bedding.  Mites can flourish in the home environment because the temperature and humidity are optimum (50-70% relative humidity). It is difficult and even impossible to eliminate mites from the environment…

Fleas are a common pest for both cats and dogs. Fortunately, there are a variety of products available to help prevent infestation. When used as directed, such products are safe and effective. However, dogs and cats can easily become sick if too much or the wrong flea product is applied, or the product is ingested post-application. Ingestion occurs if the dog or cat licks the treated area. Below is more information about potential reactions and…

Hyperadrenocorticism, commonly referred to as “Cushing’s Disease”, is a disease caused by an overproduction of cortisol from the adrenal glands and can occur in two different forms: pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism or an adrenal gland tumor. The pituitary gland (a small structure located at the base of the brain) secretes a hormone called ACTH which causes the adrenal glands (located next to the kidneys) to secrete cortisol and other hormones. In normal dogs, the cortisol ‘feeds back’…