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A common problem seen in veterinary canine patients is lick dermatitis or lick granulomas. These are also known as lick lesions. A lick granuloma is an open sore on the skin caused by and perpetuated by constant licking. It is generally located on one of the legs, especially near the carpus (wrist ) joint. Similarly, acral lick dermatitis is a general skin condition that is the direct result of constant licking. Typically, the hair will be licked off and the area will either be raw and weeping or thickened and scar-like.
In most animals, this condition is not completely understood, There are three basic view on the subject. Some view it as a primary skin disorder, some see it as a behavioral problem, and some see it as a neurologic disease involving the nerves in the area. Lick granulomas usually begin with an itching or tingling sensation on the leg. The patient responds to that by licking; this may serve to further increase the itching or tingling. Very shortly, a vicious cycle develops, creating a habit much like a child sucking his thumb. Even if the problem that initiated the itching or tingling sensation is gone, the habit if licking continues. Boredom can also be a reason for the licking. It usually occurs in dogs who are left alone for long periods of time. Some breeds, such as Dobermans, Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers, Irish Setters and German Shepherds seem most likely to develop this condition. Also, this condition usually first appears in dogs over five years of age. In addition, males dogs are twice as likely to do this when compared to female dogs.
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Stress is another possible reason for this abnormal licking. Any major changes in your dogs’ day to day life, such as the absence if a family member or companion animal, a new baby or even the presence of a nearby female in “heat”. It is important for you to realize that your dog’s problem is psychological, not physical, and you will need to try to determine what it is that is causing your dog anxiety.
In most cases, the diagnosis is made based on the appearance and location of the lesion and the fact that the dog has the compulsion to lick the area. However, certain skin tumors, parasites, embedded foreign bodies, and allergies can create similar lesions. In addition, trauma that causes bone fractures or nerve injury can lead to constant licking, creating a similar lesion. Therefore, if the diagnosis is in doubt or if the dog does respond well to initial treatment, fungal cultures, radiographs (x-rays), and biopsies may be recommended.
Lick dermatitis is extremely difficult to treat unless the underlying psychological cause is found. many approaches have been taken to this problem and none have been successful in all cases. Often, success is only achieved after several ”trial and error” attempts have been made. Various medical treatments can be used in attempt to control the dog’s licking.
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These fall into two categories: drugs to deaden the feeling or relieve inflammation in area and mood altering drugs. In many cases. a drug in each category will be used simultaneously by means of attacking the problem from both angles. Some of these medical treatments include lotions, creams, and sprays plus medications such as tranquilizers, behavior modification drugs, antibiotics, injections or bandages over the areas of licking. Laser surgery is also an option. Treatment of this type depends on the size, location, and severity of the sores. Most dogs respond to a combination of therapies and the use of restraint collars. These collars, called elizabethan collars, may need to be worn for 6-8 weeks.
These lesions can become red, hot, swollen or being to ooze fluid so it is extremely important that you watch your pet closely.
The best way for you to treat this lick dermatitis is to try to spend more time with your pet. Whenever possible, exercise your pet regularly. Spending time like this with your dog will help to distract your pet from licking and allow the sores to heal.
This is one of the most difficult medical problems that happens to the dog. Because the initiating factor is usually not identified and because there is such a strong habit that forms, treatment can be very frustrating. Regardless of the initial treatment chosen, it is always possible that the treatment will not be successful. If that happens it is important for you to communicate that so another avenue of treatment can be pursued.
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