Dermatology

Pet Skin Care that Hits the Spots

Can Guardian Veterinary Specialists treat a variety of troubling skin and ear conditions that make pets uncomfortable?

Yes, we most certainly can! The Dermatology Service at Guardian Veterinary Specialists can help with any skin and ear problems your pet may develop. Our staff will provide state-of-the-art services to achieve the most successful results. While many of the diseases listed below may present with similar symptoms, our specialists have the skills and expertise to differentiate between them and will arrive at an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

Skin diseases may also be a manifestation of internal disease. If this is the case, as a multispecialty hospital, we can consult with other specialists (e.g., internal medicine) to obtain a proper diagnosis and begin therapy. The goal is to start improving and relieving your pet’s bothersome skin condition as quickly as possible. Our compassionate, supportive staff will provide gentle handling of your pet to reduce the stress of a veterinary visit.

Additionally, many severe skin conditions may take longer to respond to therapy. At Guardian Veterinary Specialists, we’re devoted to working with you and your family veterinarian to develop the best-individualized care for your pet while also considering your needs and preferences as a pet owner.

Common Skin Conditions You May Spot:

Some of the most common skin conditions affecting dogs and cats

  • Atopic dermatitis (Allergic skin disease)
  • Excessive itching, licking, scratching, and chewing at the skin
  • Rashes and hives
  • Ear infections
  • Ear masses/growths
  • Skin infections (bacteria, yeast)
  • Hot spots
  • Skin parasites (scabies, Demodex, fleas)
  • Dermatophytes (ringworm)
  • Alopecia (hair loss)
  • Paw infections
  • Nail disorders
  • Interdigital cysts
  • Skin masses/growths
  • Auto-immune skin conditions
    • Discoid lupus
    • Pemphigus
    • Erythema multiforme
    • Panniculitis
    • Vasculitis
    • Skin cancer (lymphoma)

Spot-On Effective Diagnostic and Treatment Options:

At Guardian Veterinary Specialists, we offer advanced dermatological procedures designed to get to the bottom of your pets’ worrisome condition, resolve the problem and restore relief to the greatest extent possible.

  • Intradermal allergy testing and immunotherapy
  • Skin biopsies
  • Advanced imaging for ear disease (CT scan)
  • Laser removal of skin masses
  • Laser ablation (removal) of interdigital cysts
  • Deep ear flush with the assistance of video otoscopy (ear scope)
  • Endoscopy-assisted laser ablation (removal) of ear masses

Spotting the Best Medications for your Pet’s Condition

At Guardian Veterinary Specialists, we focus on the most appropriate use of medications to obtain the best outcome. A specific prescription plan for your pet will be discussed and determined at your appointment. Common medications used to treat skin and ear conditions include:

  • Steroids (e.g., prednisone, dexamethasone, triamcinolone)
  • Cytopoint
  • Apoquel
  • Cyclosporine
  • Various antibiotics (e.g. cefpodoxime, clindamycin, marbofloxacin)
  • Various antifungals (e.g. ketoconazole, fluconazole, itraconazole)
  • Specially compounded ear medications

If you spot something unusual on your pet’s skin or there seems to be any discomfort, please don’t delay contacting your family veterinarian, who may refer you to our advanced Dermatology Service. Many issues that are treated earlier resolve more quickly and easily. You can contact us directly at 914-704-3400.

Meet Our Dermatologist