Dermatology

Solve Skin Problems with a Pet Dermatologist

A pet’s skin condition can be hard to spot underneath their thick coat of hair, and the cause for their irritation can be even more tricky to pin down. A pet dermatologist can help identify the exact cause of the skin condition as well as prescribe the right medications or topicals to relieve symptoms. At Oak Grove Veterinary Hospital our team is skilled in pet dermatology and we can help you both manage and treat your pet’s skin problems.

When to See a Pet Dermatologist

Pet skin problems are more than just a bit of scratching. They can be as minor as a bit of dander, redness, and irritation, to as serious as hot spots, hair loss, and skin infections. If your pet exhibits any of the following, it’s time to see a pet dermatologist:

  • Excessive licking, chewing, and biting
  • Constant scratching and rubbing
  • Hair loss
  • Hot spots
  • Red, irritated or flaky skin
  • Discolored skin, such as sores or bruises
  • Body odor

Identifying Your Pet’s Skin Condition and Its Cause

Once you bring your pet to us, we’re able to determine what is causing your pet’s skin condition, as well as give you ways to treat it. Many pet skin problems are the result of an allergic reaction so we run routine tests to rule out diseases or other causes, and then try to hone in on which allergen is causing your pet’s reaction.

Common pet allergens include:

  • Pollens such as trees, weeds, and even grass
  • Mold spores
  • Dander or feathers
  • Dust and dust mites
  • Certain fabrics or rubber/plastic materials
  • Fleas and flea-control products
  • Prescription drugs
  • …and more!

Treating Your Pet’s Allergy

After we identify your pet’s allergen, we work with you to form a treatment plan and talk about ways we can reduce your pet’s exposure to their allergen. In the case of environmental allergens like pollen or dust, it may be impossible to completely eradicate exposure, but we can offer suggestions on how to lessen them.

Common treatment options for pet allergies include:

  • Apoquel, a pill that can block the allergic itch for all-day relief
  • Cytopoint, an injection that helps control the itch for four-six weeks
  • Antibiotics and antihistamines
  • Topical drugs
  • Antifungal drugs in the case of a fungal infection
  • Medicated shampoos and rinses

If you think your pet is suffering from an allergy, it’s time to see a pet dermatologist. Contact us today to set up an appointment!

Location

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Office Hours

Our front office does not close down for lunch.

San Jose Office

Monday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

9:00 am-6:00 pm

Saturday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Sunday:

Closed