Our pets have skin problems that impact their health and comfort. Animals are susceptible to hundreds of skin disorders. Since many of the diseases display very similar changes, recognizing the subtle differences requires specialized training. Animal dermatology care is preferred by pet owners everywhere.

With discoveries relating to animal health growing each year, veterinarians may be hard pressed to keep up with the immense volumes of information; thus, the need for specialists. Veterinary dermatology is one of eighteen specialties recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Our doctors at Dermatology for Animals have devoted their professional careers strictly to the understanding and treatment of allergies and other various skin diseases in animals. We are able to discuss and offer a variety of treatment options for most conditions. Our mission is to serve the clients and referring veterinarians of the southwestern United States by improving the quality of pets' lives through specialized knowledge and care in the field of dermatology. Care is provided by Heidi Newton, DVM, DACVD and Darren Berger, DVM.

All pets itch, so why should I bring my pet to a dermatologist?
Just like people, pets can be overly sensitive to certain environmental or food allergens that cause them distress. Additionally, some breeds are predisposed to certain skin conditions that bring discomfort to both the pet and the owner. Dermatologists are exposed to a broader range of these conditions on a daily basis and have learned how to identify the subtle differences between each condition. Dermatology for Animals can help provide relief for the pet and answers for the owner.

How do I know when to consult a dermatologist?
Your pet can see a dermatologist anytime. If you are concerned with your pet's quality of life, or if a condition or disease has failed to respond to general treatment, then it is time to see a dermatologist. Here are a few signs that an appointment should be scheduled:

• Hair loss (Alopecia)
• Redness of skin (Erythema)
• Scale
• Recurrent infections
• Chronic itching (pruritus)
• Decreased pet's and/or owner's quality of life

How can a dermatologist help?
In-House Diagnostic Tests

• Skin scrapes are used to identify possible parasitic infections that could be causing symptoms. A dull blade is used to scratch the skin to acquire samples of skin cells and any parasites that may be present.
• Cytology of the skin is used to identify infection and cells that are indicative of autoimmune disorders. A slide or piece of tape is pressed to the skin, picking up samples of the cells and microorganisms present.
• Dermatophyte Cultures are used to identify ringworm (a fungal organism). A gel-like medium is utilized to isolate and identify ringworm.

Elimination Diet Trial
A food elimination diet trial is used to diagnose food allergies. Food allergies include allergies to specific ingredients such as beef, chicken, dairy, egg, lamb, rice, corn, wheat, fish or soy, not to the brand or quality of the food. A pet is placed on an eight week diet trial that consists of a novel protein source (such as rabbit) and a carbohydrate source (such as potato) that the pet has not been exposed to before. No treats may be given during this time aside from those recommended. Read More

Biopsy
The skin only has a few ways to react to diseases, making it difficult to diagnose specifically what is creating the disease, therefor a biopsy may be recommended. Several small samples of skin are submitted to a dermatohistopathologist, who can review changes on a microscopic level, aiding in identification of the underlying disease process.

Intradermal Allergy Testing (IDAT)
An IDAT aids in identifying environmental allergens that contribute to allergic symptoms. Extracts of various pollens, molds, housedust mite, and human and cat dander are injected into the skin and reactions are evaluated compared to positive and negative controls. Based on these reactions, Dermatology for Animals formulates a serum containing extracts of what your pet reacted to. This is then injected into the pet to help desensitize him/her to the various allergens.Read more. Allergy Testing drug withdrawl information click here.

Video Otoscopy
The video otoscope is a valuable tool that aids in diagnosis and treatment of challenging cases of chronic otitis. It utilizes a highly magnified camera lens to examine the deeper parts of the ear canaland eardrum. It is useful in identifying foreign objects and tumors in the ear canal, abnormalities of the eardrum and infection of the middle ear. Instruments can be inserted through the video otoscope to grasp objects in the ear canal or to flush debris out of the ear canal and middle ear. Read More

Laser
The laser is a very precise instrument that is used for the removal of small, superficial masses. Benefits include less pain and bleeding, faster recovery and no suture material.

For more information on Dermatology for Animals please visit their website at http://www.dermatologyforanimals.com/

Need your pets dermatology prescription refilled?
E-mail your request to DermatologyRefill@southernazvets.com