Topic number one for ponies. Have you ever heard of hair loss that is not normal shedding? It affects large areas of the body and usually has a different, often unknown cause. That is, alopecia X.
Why does alopecia occur?
It affects males more often. Hormonal imbalance, allergy (not only) to fleas, bacterial or viral infection, dermatitis, thyroid problems or Cushing's syndrome can be to blame . Poor living conditions, excessive stress, rough and frequent grooming can also be triggers. And we must not forget about genetics - Norwegian breeds with a double coat, such as the Pomeranian, simply have alopecia. How to recognize it?
Hair in the early stages of alopecia
How does alopecia start?
The coat usually becomes thin, cottony and starts to shed more . The new hairs are rougher and greyer, and the skin underneath may turn black. These are the first signs of alopecia. Dogs are usually not very healthy, so you may not notice it right away. But when the fur disappears from the entire length of the back and only black, rough skin is visible (so-called BSD) , the problem can no longer be overlooked. This most often happens in the first 3 years of life, but theoretically it can also occur later. What is alopecia supposed to teach you? Patience.
The only veterinarian
At the first suspicion that something is seriously wrong with the coat, consult a veterinarian . He will definitely want to know what and how you feed your dog, because diet plays a big role in this case . Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, vitamin A, vitamin B complex, vitamin C is important to support immunity (although dogs can produce it themselves, with such a widespread problem they definitely do not have enough). Then the veterinarian usually takes blood and provides a complete blood count.
It is best to immediately seek out a dermatologist. We cannot let Dr. Rybníček or the team at Veteriná Hanza down .
How to fix bald spots?
As soon as alopecia appears, adjust the diet and give the coat and skin special care . What has worked best for us?
- Bathe a Pomeranian with alopecia at home 2-3 times a month with a special shampoo.
- Then we recommend applying a highly hydrating mask to promote hair growth, ideally together with a skin and hair serum .
- Furthermore, apply alopecia growth milk , which has anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects, to the affected skin and coat every day .
- We have never been disappointed by the products from the US brand Mendota Pet . In addition, the solution for supporting hair follicles will also help with hair growth .
Other helpers in the fight
Ozone baths (approximately 2 times a month) in a salon are a great fighter against alopecia . They clean, activate and prepare the hair follicles for the absorption of minerals and medicinal ingredients. When we give the pom pom a wrap after the ozone and oxygen bath , the fur starts to grow up to 4 times faster. It also helps to simultaneously use Melatonin Vitabalans for 3-6 months , which must be prescribed by a veterinarian.
A clipped Pomeranian at the beginning of alopecia
Alopecia and castration
After neutering, Pomeranians' coats usually get worse . Without reproductive hormones, hair growth slows down and any alopecia problems last much longer. Do you have a previously neutered Pomeranian? Focus on his hormonal response and mental well-being.
Pomeranian with healthy fur
Pay attention to the correct cut
A common mistake with Pomeranians is an inappropriate haircut . Dogs with a cute teddy bear haircut have become fashionable . However, the Pomeranian is a breed with a double undercoat and if you cut most of the hair significantly, you can cause alopecia .
A haircut that will do more harm than good
Are you worried about the onset of alopecia? Or are you already struggling with it and looking for help? Write to us at info@groomo.cz ! We would also be happy to hear stories of how you overcame this disease.
