my corgi is losing hair

[supram4n]

My corgi is 4 months old and I've notice that on top of head, above her eyes, she's slowly losing hair in one spot. It aboud half an inch in diameter. I thought it was nothing, but as a few days go by, it gets worse, she loses more hair in that spot. Anyone know what could be wrong? I'm worried

[bec]

have you got any pics of the problem area?

[Peggy]

Originally Posted by supram4n

My corgi is 4 months old and I've notice that on top of head, above her eyes, she's slowly losing hair in one spot. It aboud half an inch in diameter. I thought it was nothing, but as a few days go by, it gets worse, she loses more hair in that spot. Anyone know what could be wrong? I'm worried

Could you describe it better? Is it red? Weepy? Scabby? Raised?

It could be a lot of things, hot spot, ring worm, a bite or an injury that's healed and the hair's come off. Might be a good idea to have your vet take a look as it's not normal to lose hair like this. Especially on a puppy.

Peggy

[supram4n]

I'll try and take a picture of it. It looks bare, sort of pinkish.

[glencorgi]

A vet check would be my recommendation. It could also be demodex and any of the suggested things should be checked out by your vet.

Debbie

[supram4n]

I just went to my vet and they found that it is case of dog mange. They are tiny organisms that live beneath the hair follicles and they eat it away. I have to come by weekly for an injection until we see some improvement.

[glencorgi]

Originally Posted by supram4n

I just went to my vet and they found that it is case of dog mange.

Did they say if it was demodectic or sarcoptic mange?

Debbie

[supram4n]

Demodectic. What are the differences? Thanks!

[glencorgi]

Sarcoptic mange is caused by a mite that is contagious and it can spread to humans and other pets.

Sarcoptic Mange

Demodectic is also caused by mites (ones that are naturally occurring in a dog), but not contagious. It can appear in times of stress (think along the lines of teenage acne in humans - body is going through a lot changes hormonally, growing, etc.). It can also be an indicator of immune system issues. Some breeds are more prone to it at as puppies and once they grow out of it, are never bothered in adult life.
Demodectic Mange

I am glad you had her checked out by the vet and got her on a treatment program. She should be fine once you get the all clear on scrapings, but left untreated it can be some miserable stuff.

Debbie

[fogebotom]

I might add a few things-having another breed that is know for DM. I would also ask that the vet do a bloodwork up of your dog to check it's immune system. Stress usually triggers DM outbreaks but most dogs with a healthy immune system will be able to fight it on their own or with only a mild treatment. In collies it is also linked to several other issues.

Not wanting to get you scared or anything, but it's well worth it to make sure that the dog's entire health is checked out to see if there is an underlying cause for the flare up.

Cindy, the Foggy Bottom Crew and the ever growing 6 pack