Cairn Terrier Tail Problem

Question
My one year old Cairn Terrier (spayed female) seems to have a problem with her tail, the under side of her tail has gone bald, callused, and turned black.  She does not like anyone to touch it, however; she chews at it. We thought it was alopecia x, or a yeast infection, and have been treating her with acidopholus and using bag balm and or pure aloe gel for moisture to the tail. Thus far it has not spread to any other area of her body, and she seems otherwise happy and healthy.  Any suggestions??
Michelle


Answer

Hi Michelle,

The most common cause of severe itching at the base of the tail is fleas.  A good way to check for fleas is toput down a white sheet, set your dog in the middle of it, and comb her really well, preferable with a flea comb. Examine what the comb pulls out and look for fleas in that. But even if you don't see fleas, check for little crumbly dirt like particles. If you see those, use a damp paper towel to get them wet. If it's plain old dirt, the particles will remain black or brown. If it's "flea dirt", they'll leave a red colored stain as they dissolve. That's because flea dirt is digested blood.

It's also possible your dog's anal glands impacted or infected.

Having tried to treat your dog's itchy tail area on your own, without much success, it's now time to have her examined by your veterinarian. You shouldn't delay in having your dog treated, it sounds like she's really suffering with this.

Best of luck,
Patti