Dermatology
One of the most common reasons people bring their pets to Lewis Animal Hospital is due to itchy skin. Your furry family member may scratch due to a number of reasons including fleas, food allergies, atopic dermatitis, and contact allergens such as dust or pollen. The experienced veterinarians at Lewis Animal Hospital can bring your pet relief, regardless of the cause of the itch!
Administering allergens at low doses to your pet is one method our caring doctors use to prevent your pet from itching. Allergen-specific immunotherapy involves injecting tiny amounts of the material causing your companion’s reaction to create resistance to the substance. A newer method allows our doctors to administer these allergens orally, without a needle, and is known as sublingual immunotherapy. Our experienced veterinarians can determine if one of these methods may benefit your pet through examination and testing.
Steroids and antihistamines are also traditional treatments to dermatological issues seen in animals. These medications are still very affective when necessary, and can bring relief to a pet suffering from allergies. New medications have also recently been developed as alternatives to steroids, with minimal side effects, and are currently available by prescription at Lewis Animal Hospital.
If your pet is scratching, harming their skin, biting areas, or losing hair, they may be suffering from an allergic reaction. Our experienced and compassionate veterinary team can help determine what may be causing distress to your pet and bring them relief! Please call one of our convenient locations and schedule an appointment for your furry family member today.