December 2011 Derm Digest Newsletter

Injection Site Alopecia

      Alopecia means loss of hair. Although there are many causes of hair loss in a pet, focal loss of hair may be due to injections.
      Some pet owners may first notice a small round or oval patch of hair loss, usually in the shoulder or neck region. This is generally the site where injection are given.
      These injections may be rabies or distemper/parvo vaccines, corticosteriods or other injectable compounds. In some cases, the use of injected steroids can cause the hair follicles to atrophy and hair to fall out. In most cases, hair will regrow when the follicle is no longer influenced by the steroid levels.
      Rabies vaccine injections may affect any dog but is more commonly seen in certain breeds: small-breeds, especially Poodles. Bichon Frises, Shih Tzus and Yorkshire and Silky Terriers.
      Hair loss from an injection usually begins to occur within a few months but may not be obvious for up to 6 months. This extended period of time causes some owners to overlook the correlation of the vaccine injection to the affected area.
      In some cases widespread hair loss will continue to involve the back and limbs, fortunately, this is a relatively uncommon condition. It may take months and up to year for hair to regrow and the hair may return darker or lighter from its original color. In the case of rabies vaccine reactions, the hair loss is often permanent.
      The effects of the condition are primarily cosmetic. Treatment is supportive although a medication called pentoxifylline may help to increase the blood flow into the area and allow for better oxygen penetration to the hair follicle to help with improving the possibility of hair growth. Surgical removal of the residual scar can be performed in some cases. Identification and avoidance of the likely trigger is important to prevent additional reactions and possible more severe reactions upon subsequent exposure.

Help Shelter Pets This Season

      It is that time of the year that we ask you to consider making a donation to your local animal shelter or favorite pet rescue program.
      Shelters run on the thinnest of budgets and many that fall under city or county budgets have felt the pinch of decreased revenues. Many rescues are volunteer-run organizations and rely solely upon fundraising events and donations to maintain operations.
      On page four of this newsletter are but a few of shelters that may be in your area. If a monetary donation is not possible, call and ask them if blankets, towels or pet food are needed. In some cases, expired or unneeded medication is accepted at shelters. A staff veterinarian at the shelter will review the usability of these medications at the facility.
      Perhaps your unique skills can be utilized! Offering needed services could fill a need in the way of printing, tech support or maybe handyman assistance. Just ask!
      Finally, if and when it comes time to accept a new pet into your home, consider visiting a shelter or rescue organization to make that adoption.


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