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Specialities include: Dog Veterinary, Dog Medicine, Dog Diseases, Small Animal Veterinary
I'm sorry to hear about this with Ellie May. Can you upload photos of representative skin to our conversation? You can upload photos by texting them, or by using the paperclip or add file icons above your message box...if you can see those icons on your device. You can also use an external app such as dropbox or navigate to justanswer.com/help/using-justanswer and scroll down to "other".
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I haven't received a photo.
I suspect that you're referring to a pattern alopecia called seasonal flank alopecia, cyclic flank alopecia, or cyclic follicular dysplasia common in bulldogs, boxers, Airedales and schnauzers. The exact cause isn't known but photoperiod control of melatonin and prolactin secretion nay be involved. The onset of alopecia in the northern hemisphere usually occurs between November and March. Most dogs regrow their hair spontaneously 3-8 months later. Episodes of hair loss may occur sporadically only once or twice, or regularly each year. With repeated episodes, a progressive increase in the amount and duration of hair loss may be seen.
Observation without treatment is reasonable because this disease is purely cosmetic and affected dogs are otherwise healthy. Treatment with melatonin may be effective. Protocols include melatonin at 3-12 mg/dog every 12-24 hours for 3 months and several weeks before the onset of the next expected occurrence. The prognosis for hair regrowth is variable. Regrowth may be incomplete and new hairs may be duller in color and drier in texture.
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If you need clarification on anything I've posted or have additional questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask.
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Ellen
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