It is estimated that 40% of all veterinary appointments are related to skin concerns. These can include scratching the skin or ears, shaking the head, hair loss or thin hair coat, scooting, etc. If you notice any of these issues, scheduling an appointment with your veterinarian is essential, as they can significantly impact their quality of life.

What are common skin issues pets deal with?

There are many conditions that can cause skin concerns. It is important to visit your veterinarian so they can help to differentiate what might be causing issues in your pet. Common causes include:

• Allergies – food-related (most often the animal protein source) or environmental-related
• Parasites – fleas, mites, etc.
• Metabolic conditions – hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, etc.

How can I treat my pet’s skin issues at home?

We don’t recommend over-the-counter medication or home remedies without consulting us. They can be harmful to both skin and the pet’s health. At the very least, they are often not effective. If you’re concerned about your pet’s skin and they’re displaying any symptoms, it’s important to contact us at 519-624-9760 to book an appointment. Since skin issues can be connected to underlying health issues, we’ll assess your pet head to toe to determine the best treatment. Our priority is to treat the underlying cause, not just the symptoms.

How can I protect my pet against skin issues?

Though it’s difficult to completely protect your pet against skin issues, a few things you can do are:

• Ensure your pet is groomed regularly
• Feed your pet a healthy, well-balanced diet
• Give your pet their preventive medication on time
• Check their skin for any external parasites like fleas or mites