Restore your dog's healthy coat — with expert hair loss treatment

Hair loss (or alopecia) in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors. Understanding the root cause is essential for effective treatment. Here are the most common causes: 1. Parasites • Fleas: These tiny parasites can cause intense itching, leading your dog to scratch and lose fur. • Mites: Mange mites like Demodex or Sarcoptes can cause hair loss, typically starting around the face, ears, and legs. • Lice: While less common than fleas, lice can also cause hair loss and intense itching. 2. Allergies • Food Allergies: Your dog might be reacting to certain ingredients in their food, causing itchy skin and hair loss. • Environmental Allergies: Pollen, dust, mold, or certain plants can trigger allergic reactions. • Contact Allergies: Reactions to certain materials, shampoos, or chemicals can lead to hair loss where contact occurs. 3. Infections • Bacterial Infections: Often secondary to allergies or parasites, these can cause hot spots and hair loss. • Fungal Infections: Ringworm is a common fungal infection that causes circular areas of hair loss. • Yeast Infections: Often occurring in moist areas like skin folds, these can cause hair loss and discoloration. 4. Hormonal Imbalances • Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid function can cause symmetrical hair loss, typically on both sides of the body. • Cushing's Disease: Excess cortisol production can lead to hair thinning and a pot-bellied appearance. • Adrenal Issues: Imbalances in adrenal hormone production can cause hair loss and skin changes. 5. Other Causes • Stress or Anxiety: Excessive licking or chewing due to stress can create bald spots. • Genetic Factors: Some breeds are predisposed to certain types of hair loss. • Immune-Mediated Conditions: Disorders where the body attacks its own hair follicles. • Poor Nutrition: Inadequate diet can lead to a dull coat and hair loss.

It's important to catch hair loss problems early before they become more serious. Here are signs to watch for: • Patchy hair loss or bald spots • Thinning coat, especially along the back or tail • Excessive scratching, licking, or biting at specific areas • Redness, inflammation, or scabbing on the skin • Changes in skin color or texture • Circular patches of hair loss (common with ringworm) • Symmetrical hair loss on both sides of the body (often hormonal) • Dry, brittle, or dull-looking fur • Increased shedding beyond normal seasonal changes • Hot spots (painful, red, and often oozing areas of skin) • Dandruff or flaky skin • Odor from the skin or coat If you notice any of these signs, it's time to consult with a veterinarian. Early intervention can prevent the problem from worsening and help your dog feel more comfortable.

While not all causes of hair loss can be prevented, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk and manage existing issues: 1. Regular Grooming • Brush your dog regularly to distribute natural oils and detect any skin issues early • Use appropriate shampoos for your dog's skin type and avoid over-bathing • Keep your dog's coat clean and free of debris 2. Parasite Prevention • Use regular flea and tick preventatives as recommended by your veterinarian • Check your dog for parasites after outdoor activities • Keep your home environment clean to prevent infestations 3. Allergy Management • Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for your dog's specific needs • Keep your home clean and vacuum regularly to reduce environmental allergens • Identify and avoid contact with substances that trigger allergic reactions 4. Nutritional Support • Ensure your dog's diet contains essential fatty acids for skin and coat health • Consider supplements like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids if recommended • Make sure your dog has constant access to fresh, clean water 5. Stress Reduction • Provide regular exercise and mental stimulation • Maintain a consistent routine • Create a safe, comfortable environment for your dog

At Telavets, we understand how concerning it can be when your dog is losing hair. Here's how we can help: 1. Virtual Consultations for Accurate Diagnosis When you notice hair loss in your dog, schedule a virtual consultation with one of our experienced veterinarians. We'll examine your dog's condition through video and ask specific questions about the pattern of hair loss, accompanying symptoms, and your dog's history to help determine the underlying cause. 2. Customized Treatment Plans Once we've identified the likely cause of your dog's hair loss, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan. This might include: • Prescription medications for parasites, infections, or allergies • Special shampoos or topical treatments for skin conditions • Dietary recommendations to address nutritional deficiencies or food allergies • Hormone supplements for endocrine disorders • Allergy testing and management strategies 3. Next-Day Medication Delivery No need to make a special trip to the pharmacy or pet store. Once we've prescribed treatment for your dog's hair loss, we'll deliver the medications straight to your door with our convenient next-day delivery service. 4. Ongoing Support and Follow-Up Hair loss conditions often require monitoring and adjustments to treatment. We'll schedule follow-up consultations to check on your dog's progress, answer any questions you have, and modify the treatment plan as needed. 5. Preventative Care Advice Beyond treating the immediate problem, we'll provide guidance on how to prevent future hair loss issues. This might include recommendations for regular grooming, parasite prevention, nutritional supplements, or environmental changes to reduce allergens. 6. Specialist Referrals When Needed If your dog's condition requires specialized testing or in-person evaluation, we'll help coordinate with local veterinary specialists to ensure your dog gets the care they need.

Here's why pet parents trust Telavets for managing their dog's hair loss and skin conditions: • Expert Knowledge: Our veterinarians are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions that cause hair loss in dogs. • Convenience: Get professional veterinary advice from the comfort of your home—no need to stress your dog with a trip to the clinic. • Comprehensive Approach: We don't just treat symptoms; we look for the underlying cause of your dog's hair loss to provide effective, long-term solutions. • Next-Day Delivery: Receive prescribed medications, shampoos, or supplements delivered directly to your door the next day. • Ongoing Support: We're here for you throughout your dog's treatment journey, with easy follow-up consultations and adjustments as needed. • Cost-Effective Care: Virtual consultations often cost less than in-person visits, and you'll save time and travel expenses too. With Telavets, addressing your dog's hair loss has never been easier. Schedule a consultation today, and let's get your furry friend back to having a healthy, lustrous coat!