Dog Skin Care

There are primary and secondary reasons for bacterial skin infections. Our veterinarians will examine your dog and suggest the appropriate testing. These tests may include taking a sample from your pet’s skin or a blood test. Most dogs present as red, itchy and malodorous when they have a skin infection.

Contrary to popular belief, ringworm is a fungal skin infection (not a parasite). It can be treated with topical antifungal creams and or shampoos.

Ringworm symptoms can vary from none (asymptomatic carrier) to round, bald and red lesions. The veterinarian may examine the hair/lesion with a black light, look at hair samples and/or send samples away for a fungal culture.

There are three causes of allergic skin diseases: contact, food and environmental. In all cases, avoidance or removal of the allergen will reduce symptoms. Desensitization to the allergen is also effective. If you think your dog has allergies, our veterinarian may ask you to make changes to their diet and environment. They may also refer you to a veterinary dermatologist.

Fleas and a variety of mites and lice cause parasitic skin diseases. Once our veterinarian has determined what parasite is present, they will treat it appropriately.

Imbalanced hormones can manifest as skin diseases. Our veterinarian
will determine the primary hormonal issue and treat the secondary skin condition
once blood and skin samples are taken.