Dermatology

Over-the-counter medications or at-home recommendations aren’t the best ways to deal with your pet’s itchy skin or infection. If your pet has a skin condition, our veterinary team can support you by effectively treating the root cause of the issue. If you have concerns about your pet’s skin, please contact us at 905-690-0040.

Can I treat my pet’s minor skin issues at home?

It’s tempting to treat your pet’s skin conditions on your own, especially if it only seems like a small rash or patch of dry skin. However, some skin conditions are likely the symptoms of larger issues or underlying health conditions. Your pet’s body often communicates internal issues as external ones, like skin conditions. For example, food allergies often show up as bumps or patches of redness on their skin. Some symptoms that could be signs of other health problems are: 

• Inflammation 
• Dry/scaly patches 
• Swelling 
• Lumps/bumps
• Scabs

How do I deal with my pet’s food allergy?

If you notice your pet’s skin is itchy or has lumps or redness after feeding them certain foods, they could be allergic. It’s important to stop giving them this food and consult our team. Depending on the extent of your pet’s allergy, we can recommend a therapeutic diet. These special diets are created to maintain the health of pets with specific health concerns. Pets with food allergies can benefit from tailored nutrition because it eliminates potential irritants.

How can I prevent skin issues?

Your pet is likely to develop a skin condition at some point in their lifetime since it’s the largest and most exposed organ to the elements. Some skin issues are genetic while others are caused by environmental triggers like pollen or parasites. Just like humans, some pets are sensitive to different types of foods, which can cause allergic reactions that manifest on their skin. Preventing skin issues starts with being aware of potential irritants and finding ways to minimize exposure. An example is ensuring your pet is on a monthly preventive to protect them against tick or flea bites.