Overview

Diagnosing Skin Conditions

Our veterinarians stay updated with continuing education in veterinary dermatology to employ the latest diagnostic practices. Common diagnostic procedures that we perform include skin cytology, skin scraping, ear cytology, dermatophyte testing (DTM), and bacterial culture.

Symptoms to Look For

Pet owners often notice initial signs of skin issues in their pets. Common symptoms include itchiness, hair loss, red patches, flaky or scaly skin, skin or ear odor, lumps or bumps, excessive licking or biting of feet and toes, head shaking, ear scratching, scooting, and other discomfort indicators.

Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment

Allergies in pets often manifest through skin reactions. Pets can be allergic to various substances such as grass, pollen, plants, mold spores, and certain foods. Symptoms suggesting allergies include scratching, chronic infections, hair loss, ear and foot infections, paw licking, skin chewing, and skin odor.

To diagnose allergies, a blood sample is analyzed for allergen reactions. Once identified, appropriate treatments can be recommended, which may include environmental changes or specific therapies tailored to the pet's needs.

This approach ensures comprehensive care for pets experiencing skin conditions, addressing symptoms and underlying causes effectively.