Ruby
by
Lindsay Grant RVN PHC
Northvet Veterinary Group
Biopsies revealed she had Adult Onset
Demodicosis. This is the overgrowth of a mite
(Demodex canis) which is found in the hair follicles.
It is normal for dogs to have a few of these mites
but disease occurs when the mite population rises
to an excessive level. This is due to the dog’s
immune system being compromised. Further
testing revealed that Ruby was indeed, suffering
from a condition known as Cushing’s Disease. This
is where there is an excess of cortisol in the body.
Cortisol is a hormone which helps control the
body’s metabolism and so Cushing’s Disease can
affect the function of many of the body’s organs.
The Demodex mite destroys hair follicles, leading to
hair loss. Secondary infection can take hold quickly,
causing scabs, spots, even areas of bleeding and
obviously it is very itchy.
We had to provide a treatment plan that addressed
all of Ruby’s problems. She was on antibiotics for the
secondary infection, weekly medicated baths to kill
the mites and tablets to treat her Cushing’s.
Ruby gradually improved and she had a final
bath in November. Unfortunately, in December
she developed a severe infection, known as
furunculosis, between her toes. Treatment started
again and poor Ruby had to wear socks to provide
some comfort when she was walking and to
prevent her chewing her feet.
Despite all of this Ruby remained
the perfect patient. She will have
to be on lifelong medication for the
Cushing’s Disease and may need
intermittent treatment for her skin.
However, in the meantime we are
happy to say that she is back to her
happy, hairy self.
Ruby
is 8 years old and in July of 2013 she was presented
to us with, what looked like, a skin infection. Unfortunately,
treatment proved unsuccessful and Ruby’s skin became
much, much worse.