- e-Vet ALERT: Ticks and Disease
- e-Vet ALERT: Possible Spring Pet Injuries
- We have lost two special animals this past month
- e-Vet ALERT: Valentine dangers to your pet – roses, lilies, raisins, chocolate and more.
- $5 provides a box of Valentine’s cookies for a dog, or a box of heart-shaped treats for a cat
I have a question about…hair loss and dry, flaky skin in my older dog
I have a 14 1/2 year old Lab/Samoyed mix. For about 5-6 months, she has experienced significant hair loss, mainly on the side and back of her torso area. In most areas, the skin becomes very dry and flaky as well. The hair does eventually grow back, but only to be lost in another area. She has had hypothyroidism (and has been treated for it) for 7-8 years. I read where some dogs have allergies to wheat, soy and corn so I have changed her food to one that does not contain these ingredients. Her vet has given us medicated shampoos and lotions, but that seemed to almost exacerbate the problem. I’m at a loss, and the vet just seems to think it’s due to “old age”. If you have any thoughts as to other possibilities, I would greatly appreciate them.
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Have the Free T4 level tested. In some cases of hypothyroidism the need for medication increases with time. It is possible you need to give more medication. Also rule out Cushing’s disease. This can cause skin problems as well. The incidence of Cushing’s in hypothyroid patients is greater than the normal population. Add an oil supplement to the diet, we use hemp oil, about one teaspoon daily for a dog. Continue with a hypoallergenic diet.