Dermatology is a branch of medicine that deals with conditions and diseases of the skin. Just like with people, skin is the largest of your pet’s organs and as such needs constant care and attention.
Skin-related illnesses can occur frequently in dogs and cats due to their increased exposure to the elements, nature, and other animals. Due to the presence of a coat, it is often hard to see or diagnose skin conditions in your pets, but there are several common symptoms that you can look out for. If you see your pet exhibiting any of these symptoms, we recommend you bring them in to your nearest AniHealHospital facility for a consultation immediately.
Common symptoms include constant licking, scratching of affected areas, accumulation of dandruff, redness, unpleasant odor, a fear of touch, and deep aversion to bathing.
Skin ailments that occur most frequently in pets are ear mites and atopic dermatitis, which is an allergic condition in dogs that leads to inflammation and is caused by dust mites, grass, or mold spores. Alopecia or hair loss may also occur along with allergic conditions like flea allergy dermatitis. Different types of mange, including demodectic and sarcoptic mange, may occur and must be treated as soon as possible. Ringworm, lick granulomas, and seborrhea or dandruff may also occur in your pets.
Skin testing may be carried out via scrapings from an infected or affected area, swabs, cytology, cultures, stains, endocrine testing, blood work, urine tests, punch biopsies, serum allergy testing, or desensitization therapy.
Treatment for skin conditions includes oral medication, injectable medicines, dietary changes, antimicrobials, and hormone treatments.
