Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 7/12/2007

Question
My 5 pound Chihuahua had a rabies shot a few months ago and about 6 weeks later had a patch on her hip about the size of a quarter that looked almost like caked on mud.  It was black and her hair was black.  My vet says its a reaction to the vaccine.  Now her hair is almost gone in that spot and it is crusty and peeling off. :{ I am so sad and very worried.  Is this something I should get a second opinion on, is it permanent, is there anything I can do or is she just going to have this awful patch for the rest of her life?  And if its a reaction, why has she never reacted this way before.
Sincerely,
Kimberly and Sophie(my Chihuahua)

Answer
It could be related to the vaccine, although the typical rabies skin reaction is a slowly thinning hairless area about the size of a quarter.  Rarely have I seen this problem where there is a crusty patch.  You might want to get a second opinion from another vet.