By:  Merilyn E. Ulrich,
Contributing Editor/Senior Staff Writer

Hair Loss in Dogs

I watch a reality television show called The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and although many members of the cast wear various hair pieces and extensions one particular cast member suffers from Alopecia. That cast member happens to be a dog named Giggy.

Giggy is owned by Lisa Vander Pump who is a prominent member of Beverley Hills Society and the owner of three famous restaurant/bar establishments in and around Los Angeles. Lisa owns Villa Blanca, SUR and Pump and Giggy is a huge part of her life and the show.

Giggy is always dressed to the nines in one of his many custom-made outfits that Lisa splashes out thousands of dollars for. He has a tuxedo, velvet suits, costumes to fit every occasion and is the best dressed dog in Beverly Hills (or maybe the entire world!).

Giggy suffers from a severe form of Alopecia and only has a scattering of hair on his entire body. Mostly he is hairless which considering that he is a Pomeranian, is unusual.

I was curious as to whether or not it was common for animals to develop Alopecia so I checked it out. This is what I found on Web MD:

Treatment

Alopecia is commonly treated with topical shampoos and antibiotic therapy. If other issues are discovered to be the underlying cause, treatment to address the hormone levels may be prescribed. Meanwhile, if there is a skin growth or cancer, it will be surgically removed.

Living and Management

Once the treatment has been prescribed, it is essential the topical shampoos, ointments and antibiotics are administered as prescribed. In addition, monitor the dog’s skin to ensure it does not become infected.

Prevention

There is little that can be done to prevent alopecia, but it is important to monitor your pet for any skin issues that may cause hair loss.

Visit PetMD

I suppose that none of your clients will be dogs but, I thought that this was an interesting piece of information. It seems as if “man’s best friend” is just as vulnerable to hair loss as man himself.