Dermatology Services

Our dermatology services centre the care of your pet’s skin, fur and claws. As we know, animals cannot speak but they can be irritated and distressed from unpleasant parasitic infestations, allergies or upsetting lifestyle changes. This is why looking after your pet’s skin requires vigilance. Good hygiene and attentive care allows us to discover and treat the cause of their skin conditions. To learn more about the dermatological services we offer, call us at 250-591-4050.

How do I know if my pet is having a skin reaction?

Constant scratching is the most obvious sign your pet is dealing with a skin condition. Their itching may lead to raw or sore skin. Pets will also gnaw and lick irritated areas. The appearance of blisters, shedding fur, scales or moist spots are signs your pet is dealing with an uncomfortable skin condition.

What causes a pet to have skin conditions?

Stress, environmental changes, allergies, and parasites are common causes of skin problems. Your pet could be experiencing anxiety due to a change at home or routine. As a result, they may lick or gnaw obsessively at parts of their body causing sores or hot spots to appear. Be mindful of changes to your pet’s diet. New food can trigger allergies you never knew your pet had. Finally, your pet’s environmental surroundings can play a major role in their health. They can be exposed to poison ivy or parasites, like fleas and ticks when they are outdoors. External parasites can live on their skin and be extremely itchy.

Is there a way to prevent my pet from developing skin conditions?

Pets don’t need to bathe everyday, but regular baths are great ways to inspect them for skin or fur problems. If they are showing signs of itchiness or red patches on their skin, we may recommend using colloidal oatmeal shampoo. It soothes itches and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. When it comes to outdoor adventures, stay informed on tick alerts in your area. Make sure they’re on parasite prevention plans, which protect them from external parasites, like fleas and mites. Most importantly, maintain routine veterinary appointments and groom them regularly. These are both great opportunities for your pet to be thoroughly assessed for parasites or aggravated skin conditions.