09/19/2023
Hii Everyone!
I wanted to touch on a subject that is often asked in the salon.
………………….Post Clipping Alopecia
This is a condition that can affect any dog breed but is particularly prevalent in double-coated breeds like Pomeranians, and occurs when the natural hair growth cycle is disrupted due to clipping the coat. When a dog's double coat is clipped, it can disrupt the regular growth patterns of the hair follicles. This can lead to a period of hair loss and a delay in regrowth, resulting in patches of baldness on the dog's coat. This can happen on the first time or later down the road. It typically goes unnoticed in the beginning stages, as most pet parents attribute the noticeable reaction to other causes.
A damaged coat due to post clipping alopecia can have adverse effects on a dog's skin protection and the production of sebum. The coat serves as a natural barrier, shielding the skin from harmful UV rays, environmental elements, and potential irritants. When patches of baldness occur, the skin becomes more exposed, making it vulnerable to sunburn, insect bites, and scrapes. Additionally, the disrupted hair growth can impact the production of sebum, the skin's natural oil. Sebum plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health by moisturizing and protecting it. With post clipping alopecia, the dog's skin may become dry and susceptible to various skin conditions and opens the door for allergens to pe*****te the skin. This is one of the reasons it is important to maintain proper grooming practices and protect the integrity of their coat.
Lastly, once this condition takes hold, it can take months to resolve, but if left to progress, it is typically a condition that can not be reversed. 🐶🐾
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