Introduction to Ask Dr. Paola Series
Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their dog’s health and well-being. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Help! My Dog Has a Lump!
A dog owner, Crystal, reached out to Dr. Paola about a lump on her pitbull, Speedy’s, front foot. The lump is hairless, brownish-red, and has not improved after an allergy shot. Dr. Paola explains that this type of lump is often related to ongoing local inflammation rather than a simple allergy flare. Common causes include interdigital furunculosis, lick-associated lesions, or benign growths such as histiocytomas. Less commonly, but importantly, mast cell tumors and other skin neoplasms can also appear red, swollen, and resistant to anti-inflammatory treatments.
Dr. Paola advises that an allergy injection would reduce generalized allergic inflammation but would not resolve a localized lesion if infection, foreign material, or abnormal cell growth is present. A hands-on evaluation, including cytology or biopsy, is necessary to determine the cause of the lump and the best course of treatment. Dr. Paola recommends that Speedy be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible to prevent discomfort and allow for early intervention if the lesion is more serious.
Help! Can I Re-Register a Microchip?
Jane, a dog owner, asked Dr. Paola if she can register her adopted dog, Remi’s, microchip with another company. Dr. Paola explains that a microchip itself is like a permanent barcode implanted under the skin, but it does not store ownership information on its own. The ownership information lives in external databases, and many chips can be listed in more than one registry at the same time. Updating or adding new contact information ensures that if Remi is ever lost and scanned, the contact trail leads back to Jane rather than stopping at a previous owner or shelter.
Dr. Paola recommends that Jane verify the microchip number and update the contact information in at least one well-maintained database, ideally more than one. Reputable registries allow adding oneself as the primary contact even if the chip was originally registered elsewhere, and most do not require changing the chip itself. Dr. Paola advises Jane to keep her contact details current and include both a phone number and email, as up-to-date microchip registration significantly improves reunion rates.
Help! I Think My Dog Has Allergies!
Joel, a dog owner, asked Dr. Paola about purchasing a home allergy test for his retriever, Bixby, who constantly licks and chews his paws. Dr. Paola explains that when a dog persistently licks and chews its paws, it usually reflects an ongoing irritation in the skin rather than a simple bad habit. The paw is rich in nerve endings and constantly exposed to the environment, so even mild inflammation can feel like an itch that seems to demand attention.
Dr. Paola advises that home allergy tests marketed for dogs are not always reliable for diagnosing food or environmental allergies. These tests measure antibodies in saliva or fur to a wide panel of environmental and food allergens, but the scientific literature shows that they are not accurate. Dr. Paola recommends that Bixby be evaluated in person to identify the type and pattern of irritation, collect appropriate samples if needed, and begin a structured approach such as a therapeutic trial diet or targeted skin care protocol.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dr. Paola provides expert advice on various dog health issues, including lumps, microchip registration, and allergies. She emphasizes the importance of hands-on evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and proper treatment to ensure the health and well-being of dogs. By following Dr. Paola’s advice, dog owners can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for their canine companions. Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned dog lover, Dr. Paola’s insights and expertise can help you navigate common dog health issues and keep your furry friend happy and healthy.