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About Christine (Chris) Vassonei, APDT
Expertise

I have NO MEDICAL background. If your question pertains to a physical concern about your dog -- that is, you think your dog may be sick, whelping problems, trouble breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive urination, excessive drinking, heavy drooling, unexplained physical symptoms of ANY kind, etc -- YOU NEED TO GET OFF THE COMPUTER AND CALL YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT WASTE TIME WAITING FOR AN EMAIL RESPONSE!!! Your dog could be having a medical crisis!
I answer questions pertaining to training of all kinds, behavior, grooming,etc. I am qualified to address questions regarding basic training issues; crate training, housebreaking, behavior management tools, basic obedience skills. You may be interested in visiting: http://bad-dog-good-dog.blogspot.com/ www.housecalls-dogtraining.com

Experience
Past instructor for Puppy and Behavior classes for the Humane Society of Missouri. Have been a trainer for over 10 years, both in private in-home sessions and in classroom situations. Have participated in obedience with one of my goldens, titling her with a Companion Dog title. Both of my dogs earned their CGC title and were certified as therapy dogs through two separate organizations. Currently involved in local golden retriever rescue. Am currently serving as an "expert" in the Golden Retriever, Dog Training, and Canine Behavior categories.

Organizations
Dirk's Fund Golden Retriever Rescue, www.dirksfund.com

Education/Credentials
Going on over ten years of private and public training; instructed with Humane Society of Missouri and South County Obedience.

You are here: Experts > Animals/Pets > Veterinary Medicine > Dogs > skin issue

Dogs - skin issue

Expert: Christine (Chris) Vassonei, APDT - 10/24/2009

Question
My9 year old Lhasa has itchy spots all over her trunk area that are thick, black and crusty. She also has an odor when it flakes off it almost looks like coffee grounds. We had a flea problem this summer but is now under control. I have found many things on the web about skin conditions but none of them have anything like this. What could it be? Thanks

Answer
It could be what they call a "hot spot." There are a number of things that can cause them; the constant licking of a dog, or if the coat is not dryed thoroughly after a bath or being wet, causing moisture to be trapped close to the skin.

Here's some information on how to treat them:

http://www.dog-obedience-training-review.com/dog-hot-spots.html

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