Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

too tightly or for too long a time, traction on the hair effects the hair follicles,
causing the roots to stop growing. This results in an area of hair loss that may
be permanent.
Treatment: The only treatment for a permanent bald spot is to remove it
surgically. This would only be done for cosmetic reasons. Alopecia can be prevented
by using hair ties loosely and for short periods—or preferably, not
using them at all.
ACANTHOSIS NIGRANS
Acanthosis nigrans literally means “thick, black skin.” Primary acanthosis
nigrans is seen principally in Dachshunds. The age of onset is less than 1 year.
The exact cause is unknown. Secondary acanthosis nigrans occurs in all
breeds in association with endocrine skin diseases, itchy skin diseases, and
obesity.
In Dachshunds, the disease affects the armpit folds, the ears, and the skin
folds of the groin. As the disease progresses, you will see extreme black pigmentation
and a greasy, rancid discharge on the surface of the skin. Secondary
bacterial infections are common. Eventually the disease extends over a considerable
area, covering the brisket and legs. This disease causes considerable
distress to the dog and her owner.
Treatment: Primary acanthosis should be treated by a veterinarian. The
disease is controllable but not curable. Most dogs can be kept comfortable
with potent topical (and occasionally, oral) corticosteroids. Melatonin and
vitamin E have been effective in some cases. Antibiotics are used to treat secondary
skin infections. Use antiseborrhea shampoos to remove excess oil and
bacteria (see Seborrhea, page 150). Weight reduction to reduce skin fold friction
is desirable.
Secondary acanthosis nigrans responds to treatment of the underlying skin
problem.
VITILIGO
THE SKIN AND COAT • 147
Vitiligo is a condition in which pigment is lost from the skin and hair of the
nose, lips, face, and eyelids. Black pigment is present early in life in affected
dogs, but it gradually fades to a chocolate brown or even to white. There do
not appear to be health problems related to the loss of pigment. Rottweilers
are one of the breeds in which this problem is seen.
The exact cause of vitiligo in dogs has not yet been determined, but it is
believed it may have a genetic predisposition and/or be an autoimmune problem.
Treatment: There is no definitive treatment, though omega-3 fatty acids
and antioxidants such as vitamin C may help with this problem.