Diagnosis and treatment of allergies is the most common service provided  by our Veterinary Dermatologist.  Allergic disease in dogs and cats is a treatable, life-long disease that commonly manifests as skin and ear problems. Allergies worsen as pets grow older, unless there is proper intervention.

Allergic signs can include itching, licking and rubbing which may lead to secondary infections of the skin, feet and ears.  A pet may have one or several allergies, and our doctors are here to help determine what they are and to design specefic therapies for your pet. The earlier these problems are controlled, the better the chance your pet may have a happier, more comfortable life  that avoids medication with long-term side effects.

One of our main goals is to educate you about the disease and the disease process affecting your pet.  Increased awareness of your pet's symptoms may help improve the pet's quality of life. Ongoing communication between you and our staff is the key to successful treatment of your pets Dermatologic and Allergic condition

Procedures-

Cytology- the best test to determine if and what infection is present. Results are available in about 25 minutes.

Skin Scraping- This test looks for mites that may be found on or in the skin. These results are also available prior to the end of your appointment.

Trichogram- This test involves a pluck of hair to determine quality and formation of normal structure.

Dermatophyte Test Medium- The most specific test to diagnose dermataphytosis. This a zoonotic diesase, so it  can be transmitted to humans.

The results from this test take several weeks.

Video Otoscope- Used for ear examinations, this otoscope is equipped with a fiber optic light  and camera  for a better view of the ear drum and canal. The photo's are analyzed and stored so comparisons can be made as progression is made in the treatment of the ear.

Advanced Procedures-

These procedures are generaly not performed at the  first appointment.

Skin Biopsy-

Intradermal Allergy Testing- The "Gold Standard". It is Used to pinpoint environmental allergies. The results are available the same day and are used to make an immunotherapy vaccine that is used to help control allergies in atopic pets.

Deep Ear Flush-

Common Dermatology Problems

Disorders involving the skin, haircoat, nails and ears are the most common seen in Veterinary Dermatology. The diseases are often associated with:

• Allergies
• Infections affecting skin, ears, feet and nails
• Parasites
• Hormonal problems
• Immune-mediated(autoimmune) disorders
• Congenital/ hereditary conditions
• Keritinization
• Neoplastic diseases
• Idiopathic disorders
• Unknown or other disorders