‘At Breaking Point?’- Diagnosing and Understanding SLO
What is SLO?Firstly, what is ‘SLO’? Symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy is an autoimmune disease whereby the body attacks its own nails. Owners often first notice weak, frayed, and broken nails occurring more regularly than normal. Ordinarily it takes quite a bit of force to remove a dog’s nails so it is not considered ‘normal’ for them to just fall off. Affected dogs often lick their paws and tend to dislike their paws being touched – this can certainly be a painful condition!
How is it diagnosed?Your vet may suspect SLO if they find multiple broken or frayed nails, especially in dogs with painful paws. Diagnosis is achieved by removing one of your dog’s nails and sending it for analysis at an external lab. The diagnosis can take a few weeks but, once confirmed, treatment can be started to make those painful paws much more comfortable!
How is it treated?SLO is immune mediated, meaning the body attacks its own cells which destroys the nails - medication is used to prevent this. Supplements are also provided to encourage growth of healthy, strong nails. Once treatment is on board, most dogs will go into remission and will lead much happier and healthier lives!
Inca’s Story
Inca came to see us after she tore her nail off whilst out on a walk. Her owner reported that she didn’t particularly enjoy having her nails clipped and that she had completely ripped them off whilst out and about. Hungarian Vizlas can be a sensitive breed when having their paws touched however this was unusual. A few weeks later a similar event occurred and she ripped a further two nails off. This is when suspicion arose that Inca could be suffering from SLO. Other breeds predisposed to this condition include German Shepherds, Gordon Setters and Rottweilers.
Inca was given a general anaesthetic whilst in the clinic so we could fully examine her in a stress and pain free way. We then removed one of her nails so that we could send it to the external lab. We have since had a confirmed diagnosis for Inca of SLO and she has started on treatment. She is now doing well and is not losing nails like she used to.
Please contact us if you have any queries or book an appointment for your dog’s nails to be checked if you are suspicious of SLO.