Veterinary Dermatology
A Diagnostic Approach to Dermatology
Focused skin and ear diagnostics for dogs and cats.
Skin Cytology & Scraping
Microscopic evaluation and skin scraping help identify infections, parasites, inflammation, and other contributors to skin disease.
Bacterial & Fungal Cultures
Targeted cultures help identify organisms and guide treatment when infections are recurrent, severe, or difficult to resolve.
Skin Biopsy
When appropriate, biopsy provides tissue-level information for complex, unusual, or persistent skin lesions.
Allergy Testing
Allergy testing may help define relevant triggers and support a long-term management plan for selected patients.
Dermatologic Examination
A detailed review of the skin, coat, ears, paws, medical history, and previous response to treatment helps guide the diagnostic plan.
Underlying Disease Assessment
We consider infectious, allergic, hormonal, immune-mediated, and other medical causes that may affect the skin and ears.
Individualized Treatment Options
Treatment is selected for the patient’s diagnosis, medical history, and long-term needs. Options may include topical or systemic therapy, allergy management, allergen-specific immunotherapy, Phovia fluorescence light therapy, therapeutic laser, and cryotherapy when clinically appropriate.
Advanced Ear Care
Recurring Ear Infections Require a Deeper Evaluation
Our diagnostic approach may include ear cytology, cultures, examination of the ear canal and tympanic membrane, and video otoscopy when appropriate. Findings guide a targeted treatment and follow-up plan.
Recurrent Otitis
Evaluation focuses on why the problem keeps returning—not only on suppressing the current symptoms.
Ear Cytology & Cultures
Microscopic evaluation and cultures can help identify yeast, bacteria, inflammation, and resistant infections.
Video Otoscopy
High-resolution visualization may help evaluate the ear canal and tympanic membrane and support precise cleaning or procedures.
Targeted Follow-Up
Rechecks help assess response, adjust treatment, and build a practical long-term management plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my pet need a referral?
No. Pet owners may call VDC directly to schedule an evaluation. Referrals and previous medical records are also welcome.
Which patients do you see?
Our veterinary dermatology services are available for dogs and cats.
When should I schedule a dermatology evaluation?
Consider an evaluation for persistent itching, redness, rashes, hair loss, scaling, odor, paw licking, skin lesions, or recurring ear infections.
Which diagnostic tests may be recommended?
Recommendations are individualized and may include skin cytology, skin scraping, bacterial or fungal cultures, biopsy, allergy testing, or evaluation for an underlying medical condition.
Do you offer allergy testing and immunotherapy?
Yes. When clinically appropriate, allergy testing and allergen-specific immunotherapy can be incorporated into a long-term management plan.
Which advanced treatment options are available?
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include Phovia fluorescence light therapy, therapeutic laser, cryotherapy, and other topical or systemic therapies.
Do you treat chronic ear infections?
Yes. Because recurring ear disease is often connected to allergy or skin disease, we evaluate the underlying cause and may use cytology, cultures, or video otoscopy when appropriate.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Please bring available medical records, a current medication list, and any previous laboratory, culture, biopsy, or allergy test results.
Schedule a Dermatology Evaluation
Pet owners may contact us directly, and veterinary referrals are welcome.