Skin and ear disease is one of the most common reasons owners seek vet care for their dogs and cats, allergies being a frequent source for skin and ear issues. By managing the underlying issues, we can stay on top of the dermatological requirements for your pet. Beyond allergies, there are many conditions that can affect the skin and ears.

Allergies change between season, location and the individual animal. Therefore your pet’s needs may change through the seasons or in different environments, which extends to the food they eat. Skin allergies are often caused by multiple allergens along with other factors at play. It is because of this that we often need a multi-modal management approach to the skin health and allergies of your pet. This may include diet and nutrition, parasite control, skin barrier care through shampoos and other topical management steps, supplements and for many the need of medicines. The common theme you may have already seen mentioned several times before through the information we provide here – Each pet’s circumstances can be varied and will need consultation to address their individual needs.

After taking a detailed history and performing a physical examination we advise you on your options and decide together how to proceed. Standard investigations can include cytology of impression smears and skin scrapes, aspirate cytology, and bacterial or fungal culture. Some of this is performed within our clinic laboratory while others may need the use of the external pathology services, . Some skin diseases can be an expression of what is happening with the body. Sometimes this means we will need to explore a wider range of investigations to uncover the most accurate management options. A more comprehensive work up may include blood tests, immunology testing and tissue biopsies for histopathology assessment.

We will work closely with you each step of the way to inform you of your choices and what we recommend is best for your pet to develop a plan for a comfortable, disease free life.