Pet Skin Care:
Soothing Itchy Issues for a Happy Pet
At Canobie Lake Veterinary Hospital, we understand how frustrating and uncomfortable allergies and skin problems can be for pets—and their families. Plus, allergies and dermatological conditions can change over time, requiring ever-evolving care to keep your pet comfortable.
If your pet is struggling with itchy skin, chronic ear infections, or other skin issues, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and help your pet look and feel their best!
Or give us a call at (603) 898-8982!
Common Allergies and Dermatological Conditions in Pets
Dermatological conditions are among some of the most frequent issues pets face, but our team is well-versed in diagnosing and managing these stubborn problems. Common skin issues we see in cats and dogs include:
Pet Allergy and Dermatology Diagnostics
Our approach to allergy and dermatology care begins with a thorough examination and assessment of your pet's medical history. Then, we may recommend:
Allergy Testing
We offer serum allergy testing to help identify specific allergens affecting your pet, and then create a customized treatment plan tailored to their needs.
Skin Scraping and Cultures
If your pet has visible skin problems like bumps, sores, hair loss, or suspicious lesions, we may take a skin scraping or culture to check for infections, parasites, or other skin conditions.
Food Elimination Trials
If we suspect food allergies, we may recommend an elimination diet to help pinpoint the specific ingredient causing the reaction.
Treatment Options for Allergy and Dermatological Issues
Once we’ve diagnosed the cause of your pet’s skin issues, we’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include:
Medications
Antihistamines, corticosteroids, antibiotics, and antifungals may be used to reduce inflammation, fight infections, or manage allergic reactions.
Allergy-Specific Therapies
Oral and injectable medications, like Apoquel and Cytopoint, directly target the itch response caused by allergies in pets. These products have vastly fewer side effects than steroids, which suppress the entire immune system.
Topical Treatments
Shampoos, sprays, and ointments designed to soothe irritated skin, kill bacteria or yeast, and promote healing are often a key part of treatment.
Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy)
For pets with environmental allergies, we may recommend allergy shots to help desensitize them to specific allergens and reduce future allergic reactions.
Dietary Changes and Supplements
If food allergies are a concern, we’ll help you identify the right food for your pet and which ingredients to avoid. We'll also recommend supplements that repair the skin barrier and support overall skin health, like omega-3 fatty acids.
Flea Control
If fleas are causing your pet’s skin issues, we’ll guide you through a comprehensive flea prevention plan to ensure your pet remains flea-free.
If your dog or cat is suffering from allergies or skin problems, don’t wait any longer to get the help they need.
Contact us today to schedule a dermatology consultation!
Or give us a call at (603) 898-8982!