Veterinary Dermatology in Farmington, NM
Hair loss and constant scratching can indicate fleas, food allergies, or other more serious skin conditions. San Juan Veterinary Hospital provides specialized dermatological services for every patient, including allergy testing and desensitization treatments to get to the root of your pet’s discomfort.
Book OnlineDermatology focuses on the health of your pet’s skin, and it’s one of the most common reasons pets visit our hospital. Skin problems can be challenging to diagnose because so many different conditions share similar symptoms, from itching and redness to hair loss and hot spots.
Some of the skin problems we routinely diagnose and treat include:
- Fleas and other external parasites
- Environmental and food allergies
- Bacterial and fungal skin infections
- Autoimmune skin conditions
- Skin masses and growths, including cancers
Many pets scratch and chew persistently once a skin condition takes hold. Left untreated, this can lead to hair loss and secondary skin infections that make the underlying problem even harder to resolve. Some pets experience occasional flare-ups, while others struggle with itching almost constantly.
Our veterinarians work to identify the true cause of your pet’s skin issue before recommending treatment. We offer allergy and fungal testing, along with cultures and biopsies when needed, to build an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. In many cases, we also coordinate with our in-house laboratory and nutritional counseling services to address underlying causes such as food sensitivities.
Don’t wait if your pet is having skin problems. Call (505) 326-2205 to schedule an appointment and get your pet the relief they need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common signs of a skin problem in pets?
Common signs include excessive scratching, redness, hair loss, hot spots, recurring ear infections, and a persistent odor from the skin or coat.
How do you diagnose the cause of my pet’s skin condition?
We may use allergy testing, fungal cultures, skin scrapings, or biopsies depending on your pet’s symptoms, so we can identify the exact cause before starting treatment.
Can food allergies cause skin problems in dogs and cats?
Yes, food allergies are a common cause of chronic itching and skin irritation, and our team can help identify trigger ingredients through diet trials and testing.
Are skin infections in pets contagious to other animals or people?
Some skin conditions, such as certain fungal infections, can be contagious to other pets or people, which is another reason prompt diagnosis and treatment are important.
How long does it take to see improvement after starting dermatology treatment?
Improvement timelines vary by condition, but many pets show noticeable relief within a few weeks of starting an appropriate treatment plan.
Can flea allergies be managed long term?
Yes, with consistent flea prevention and, when needed, medication to manage allergic reactions, most pets with flea allergies can be kept comfortable year-round.
When should I bring my pet in for a skin issue instead of waiting it out?
If your pet is scratching persistently, losing hair, developing sores, or seems uncomfortable, it’s best to schedule an exam rather than wait, since early treatment is usually easier and more effective.