Dermatology Services

Disease of the skin commonly affects our pets. Here at Cobequid Animal Hospital, health issues related to your furry family member’s skin, hair and nails are some of the most common conditions that we treat. Fortunately, there is a wide array of treatments and medications at our disposal. If your pet has a dermatological problem that needs our attention, please don’t think twice about reaching out to our team. Simply call us at 902-865-8110 to book a consultation.

What are the signs of skin problems in pets?

Since the skin covers the body from head to toe, symptoms can appear anywhere, including the ears! Although each pet, condition and disease severity will mean that symptoms vary, there are some common warning signs you should watch out for. They include relentless licking/scratching/biting of their own limbs/skin, open sores, bleeding, excess shedding and bald spots.

What are the causes of skin conditions in pets?

There are many causes of skin disease in dogs and cats ranging from parasitic infections (fleas, mites) to hormone imbalances and auto-immune diseases. Perhaps the most common cause of symptoms of skin disease is allergy. In humans, our “allergic organ” is most commonly our upper respiratory system. Allergies in humans often cause sneezing, runny eyes and nose, itchy throat. In our pets, the skin is commonly the “allergic organ”. Allergies often cause inflammation of the skin resulting in itch. Our pets scratch and lick which traumatizes the skin, and can lead to infection – which adds to the itch.

What kinds of treatments are available to address skin issues in pets?

The treatment your veterinarian will put your pet on depends entirely on your pet’s unique case. A single therapy or a combination of two or more may be recommended. The most common ways to treat skin conditions are prescription diets, ointments, pills, antibiotics, lasers and injections. Complicated cases can be referred to a board-certified veterinary dermatologist at the Atlantic Veterinary College.