Is your pet constantly scratching, biting, or licking? Are you both losing sleep over itchy, irritated skin? You’re not alone skin problems are one of the most common reasons pet owners seek veterinary care. At Grand Oaks Pet Hospital, we take dermatology and allergy issues seriously, and we’re here to help your pet feel healthy, comfortable, and happy again.
What is the problem?
Skin issues can stem from many different causes. To treat your pet effectively, we first need to identify the root of the problem. Depending on your pet’s symptoms, we may begin with a physical exam, or we may recommend additional testing such as: Blood work, Skin scrapings, Cytology or biopsies.
We treat a wide range of dermatological conditions, including:
Environmental & food allergies
Bacterial and fungal infections
Parasites (fleas, mites, etc.)
Dermatitis
Hormonal imbalances
Autoimmune disorders
Skin tumors and cancer
Building a Treatment Plan
Once we’ve determined the cause, we’ll tailor a treatment plan to your pet’s specific needs. Treatments may include:
Topical creams or sprays
Oral or injectable medications
Specialized shampoos or conditioners
Prescription diets
Environmental management strategies
Allergy testing and immunotherapy
Signs Your Pet Might Have a Skin Condition
Be on the lookout for these common symptoms:
Excessive scratching or licking
Chewing at paws or skin
Red, flaky, or scabbed areas
Hair loss or bald patches
Hot spots (moist, irritated skin lesions)
Lumps, bumps, or changes in skin texture
Excessive shedding
If you notice any of these, don’t wait — early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.
Our goal is always to provide effective, long-term relief and help your pet live a more comfortable, itch-free life.
Follow-Up and Long-Term Management
Allergies in pets are typically chronic — meaning they don’t completely go away, but can be successfully managed with the right approach.
What Long-Term Care Looks Like
- Regular Vet Check-Ups:
Monitor skin and ear health, adjust medications, and catch flare-ups early.
- Consistent Flea Control:
Even indoor pets can get fleas from visitors, other animals, or open doors/windows.
- Routine Bathing:
Use a gentle, hypoallergenic or medicated shampoo (recommended by your vet) to remove allergens and soothe skin.
- Balanced Diet:
Stick to your pet’s tolerated diet — even one treat with an allergen can trigger a reaction.
- Environmental Management:
Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
Vacuum frequently to reduce dust and pollen.
Wipe your pet’s paws after outdoor walks.
- Medication Monitoring:
Long-term use of Apoquel or Cytopoint is generally safe, but follow your vet’s schedule for rechecks.
Omega-3 supplements are excellent for ongoing skin and coat health.
Goal of Allergy Management
The main goal isn’t to “cure” allergies but to control symptoms so your pet can live comfortably and itch-free.
With time, you’ll learn what triggers your pet’s flare-ups and how to keep them under control.
Comfort Starts Here
Do not let your best friend to suffer. With years of experience and a compassionate approach, our team at Grand Oaks Pet Hospital is here to help you and your pet sleep peacefully again.
Let’s restore your pet’s comfort — from the inside out.
