shedding of fur

Question
I own an adorable, energetic, friendly Lab, 5yrs of age.  The only problem with her is her EXCESSIVE shedding of fur every 2-3 months.  We got her spayed recently and she was found to have a large tumor on the Lt.ovary (clinical diagnosis) which was malignant, but after we took x-rays of the chest and abdomen there were no traces of the tumor left behind.  At first I thought it was the tumor that had caused the shedding for no sooner she was spayed and the tumor was removed the shedding of fur had stopped.  Now it has been 4 months, we had no problem since, but suddenly about a wk ago the shedding has started all over again like it use to before.  I am so worried, as all her test have been done and the reports were all negative.  The food she has is 'Active dog pedigree'.  I give her '7 seas' capsules every morning (this has Omega3 and fish oils in it), I also give her Vitamin E. I also groom her daily.

Will really appreciate your help.  
Thanks ever so much.
Sarah  

Answer
Hi Melisa,

Because your dog has been okay for the past four months, it might be that the current shedding is normal. Dogs usually shed around this time of year due to seasonal changes in temperature. Perhaps that explains the shedding you're currently seeing, but knowing what you've already been through, you're sensitive to the shedding issue.

Hormones trigger shedding. Since you feel that the excessive shedding began after your dog was spayed, and because she had an ovarian tumor, looking at a hormonal cause for the problems would be a really good place to start. Excessive shedding is also the result of hypothyroidism, which is a deficiency in the thyroid hormone.

You didn't say if you've discussed the possibility of a hormonal problem with your veterinarian, or which tests were already done. Even if thyroid tests were done four months ago and came back negative, if you feel the shedding is excessive again, the tests should be re-run.

Until you can have your dog seen by your vet, keep doing the daily brushing!

Best of luck,
Patti