Dermatology

Every night, just as your head is about to hit the pillow, you hear it–the thump of your pet’s leg hitting the floor as they scratch themselves. This can go on for hours, and it’s costing you sleep. Worse, it’s making your pet miserable and leaving them with sores on their skin and bald patches in their fur. Your pet’s condition is likely due to an allergy, and we know how taxing allergies can be for both pets and their families. Luckily, our team at Companion Animal Hospital of Vernon Hills can help with dog and cat allergy treatment in Vernon Hills, IL. In addition to various tests, we also offer treatment options to relieve allergy symptoms and bring the allergy itself under control.

WHAT KIND OF ALLERGY DOES MY DOG OR CAT HAVE?

Before we can make a clear allergy diagnosis, we need to examine your dog or cat and discuss their daily life at home. Therefore we can isolate potential culprits and narrow down the possibilities. As with humans, our pets can become allergic to all kinds of things, including:

• Flea bites (flea allergic dermatitis)
• Ingredients in food, such as beef, chicken, wheat and even food dyes
• Dust mites, pollen, mold and grass
• Chemicals in household cleaning and gardening products

There is also the possibility that your pet’s skin condition is not due to an allergy, but to a fungal infection or ectoparasites such as ear mites and mange. Using the proper diagnostics, we can better understand your pet’s condition and propose the best possible treatment.

HOW WE DIAGNOSE AND TREAT ALLERGY SKIN CONDITIONS IN DOG AND CATS

There are several tests available that we can use to diagnose your pet’s condition:

• Allergy testing
• Skin cytology
• Skin scraping
• Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
• In-house blood testing
• Food elimination diet (if a food allergy is suspected)

To treat your pet’s condition and any secondary infections, we offer various options that can be combined as needed for maximum effect:

• Oral medication
• Hypoallergenic diet
• Injectable medication
• Immunotherapy
• Medicated shampoos
• Topical medication
• Daily supplements

Pet Dermatology Near You

Your pet’s itching and scratching could be a cry for help. If you notice this behavior along with frequent licking and chewing of their feet or flank, call us immediately! Our veterinarians are available 6 days a week to provide pet dermatology treatment. Finally, remember that if your pet has allergies or a fungal infection, leaving it untreated will only allow it to get worse. Be proactive with your pet’s care and make an appointment with us today!