Dermatologic Examination

A veterinary dermatology exam focuses on your pet's skin, coat, ears, and nails to diagnose and treat any related problems. Skin issues are common in pets and can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions.

What Happens During a Dermatology Exam?

You'll need to schedule an appointment. The veterinarian will:

• Review History: Discuss your pet's skin history, including when and where the problems started, how they've changed over time, and any previous treatments.
• Physical Exam: Perform a thorough examination of your pet's skin, coat, and the areas where skin meets other tissues (like the mouth, eyes, and paws).
• Diagnostic Tests (if needed): Depending on the exam findings, the vet may recommend tests such as:
  • Skin scrapings or tape preps: To check for parasites like mites.
  • Fungal cultures: To identify fungal infections like ringworm.
  • Bloodwork: To look for underlying health issues.
  • Allergy testing: To identify environmental or food allergies.
  • Skin biopsies: To take a small tissue sample for further analysis.

Based on the exam and test results, the vet will diagnose the problem and create a personalized treatment plan.

Why is a Dermatology Exam Important?

A thorough dermatology exam helps:

• Identify the Cause: Determine the primary and secondary causes of skin problems, which is crucial for effective treatment. Skin symptoms can sometimes be a sign of more serious underlying conditions, such as metabolic disorders, infections, hormonal imbalances, or parasite infestations.
• Early Treatment: Early diagnosis and treatment lead to better outcomes and less discomfort for your pet.
• Personalized Plan: The vet will create a treatment plan tailored to your pet's specific needs, which may include medications, bathing recommendations, dietary advice, and strategies for avoiding allergens.
• Improve Skin Health: Addressing skin issues from the inside out can significantly improve your pet's overall skin and coat health.