Canine question - alopecia
Posted: Fri Dec 04, 2009 6:31 pm
I know it is best to let someone else work with our family and pets, but I'm in need of some advice on this one. My 2 year old pomeranian is showing early signs of alopecia. There is a common genetic problem among poms termed Black Skin Disease. At this point, I do not believe he has this - but I am concerned as the alopecia is the first symptom. I've taken him to 4 homeopathic vets since I have had him, and I have not been impressed by their homeopathic training, approach or results. I'm continuing to look for a great homeopathic vet, but for now I would appreciate any input.
Thank you in advance.
Donna
D C Rona, PhD, ND, DHM
quick summary
Male Pomeranian 2 years old, intact,9 pounds
Current:
Alopecia – just beginning (undercoat only – not outercoat)
No interest in toys
Scratching frequently
General:
Excellent communication skills with wide variety of expressions and actions to tell you exactly what he wants - like 'cold water'
Expressive – very vocal
Changeable moods – overall somewhat timid
Aversion to confinement even in a large area
Can cry or bark for hours without stop when confined
Extreme sensitivity to flea bites and seems to attract fleas when on walks
Variable appetite
Restless and hypersensitive
Picky eater
Bowel movement normal and reflects recent meals (color and texture appropriate)
Bowel movement volume appears too large for the volume of intake
Drinking/urine seem normal
Easily startled
Desire for company – but not much petting - will lie close enough to touch your feet - seems very happy to just be 'near'
Occasional dry cough spasms – easily and quickly resolved by Drosera
Seems to `stress out' easily
Not easily calmed by gentle voice or touch
Somewhat thin/delicate build
Prefers sleeping on hard surfaces
When really feeling well – sleeps on back with feet in the air
When not feeling well – sleeps on side or stomach
Restless – moves positions often
Still has some baby teeth as well as full set of adult teeth
NOT food driven
Vagueness of symptoms – seldom notice anything that is strong or specific
No odors (ears, mouth, etc.)
Diet:
Home made
Treats are mainly non-grain (desiccated liver, fish, etc.)
Salmon oil added to food
Medical:
Rabies inoculations as required by law
Puppy inoculations while at breeder
Thank you in advance.
Donna
D C Rona, PhD, ND, DHM
quick summary
Male Pomeranian 2 years old, intact,9 pounds
Current:
Alopecia – just beginning (undercoat only – not outercoat)
No interest in toys
Scratching frequently
General:
Excellent communication skills with wide variety of expressions and actions to tell you exactly what he wants - like 'cold water'
Expressive – very vocal
Changeable moods – overall somewhat timid
Aversion to confinement even in a large area
Can cry or bark for hours without stop when confined
Extreme sensitivity to flea bites and seems to attract fleas when on walks
Variable appetite
Restless and hypersensitive
Picky eater
Bowel movement normal and reflects recent meals (color and texture appropriate)
Bowel movement volume appears too large for the volume of intake
Drinking/urine seem normal
Easily startled
Desire for company – but not much petting - will lie close enough to touch your feet - seems very happy to just be 'near'
Occasional dry cough spasms – easily and quickly resolved by Drosera
Seems to `stress out' easily
Not easily calmed by gentle voice or touch
Somewhat thin/delicate build
Prefers sleeping on hard surfaces
When really feeling well – sleeps on back with feet in the air
When not feeling well – sleeps on side or stomach
Restless – moves positions often
Still has some baby teeth as well as full set of adult teeth
NOT food driven
Vagueness of symptoms – seldom notice anything that is strong or specific
No odors (ears, mouth, etc.)
Diet:
Home made
Treats are mainly non-grain (desiccated liver, fish, etc.)
Salmon oil added to food
Medical:
Rabies inoculations as required by law
Puppy inoculations while at breeder