Though there are many reasons for skin disease on our pets, dermatitis (also known as skin infection) secondary to allergies is by far the most common problem we see. The most common allergy is a sensitivity to flea bites. We therefore recommend that all of our patients be on flea prevention year round. Other allergies include seasonal pollen and food. If you suspect your pet may have a food allergy, please consult your veterinarian before switching diets. Many over the counter diets that claim to be food for pets with allergies are unlikely to help because they are made on the same machinery as the other diets and therefore have cross contamination. Also, using one of these over the counter diets often limits the diets that your veterinarian may later recommend for your pet.
Have further questions? We welcome your questions! Please feel free to call us at 757-355-5694 for additional information, or stop by and visit us as Birdneck Animal Hospital, 508 N Birdneck Rd., Ste C, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.