bobk@labjss.UUCP (bobk) (08/30/85)
My older (3 years old) boxer had a hair loss problem that showed up a few months ago. It was a regular pattern on his flanks (both). Off to the vet to see what can be done and the results are in. First, inspection for fleas or mites showed nothing. Second, ultra- violet inspection for a yeast infection didn't show anything. Third, a sample of the skin (which was flaking) was taken for further study to see if any bacteria were present. In the meantime, he was put on antibiotics for one week. After one week nothing grew in the petri dish, more antibiotic therapy. After two weeks (no improvement yet) something grew but could have been caused by contamination. Final option was a hormone shot. The dog is neutered and was a monorchid (only one testicle descended), the descended testicle was also atrophied. The dogs 'T4' level was marginally acceptable. The hormone shot did it, with some drastic personality changes. The dog is now marking territory and is much more impatient with our younger (7 months) boxer. he wants to roam the neighborhood and has developed into a real sneek when outside. The hair loss problem is fixed and hopefully with less hormone suppliment than the original shot, we'll be able to keep the side effects to a minimum. bob kunz hplsla!bobk