Dermatology
Just like people, dogs and cats can experience skin disorders. In fact, there are hundreds of different skin disorders that can affect pets. Because symptoms are often similar—itchy skin and digestive problems are common—determining the precise cause and appropriate treatment requires specialized testing and in-depth diagnostic expertise.
The Dermatology Services We Provide
At NorthStar VETS®, our Dermatology Department provides comprehensive diagnostic testing to determine the cause of your pet’s skin disorder. Our veterinarians are specially trained to treat skin diseases so your pet can resume living a symptom-free life. Our services include:
- A thorough physical exam and medical history review
- Diagnostic testing including skin scraping, flea combing, cell analysis (cytology), bacterial and/or fungal cultures, blood work to rule out underlying systemic illness, skin biopsies, and advanced imaging
Once we’ve identified the cause of your pet’s skin disorder, we’ll develop the most appropriate treatment plan. Our therapeutic arsenal includes:
- Systemic and topical therapies to clear skin infections
- Immunotherapy vaccines to treat certain allergic diseases
- Dietary changes to address specific allergies
- Long-term management of chronic skin or ear diseases that may require ongoing treatment
The Dermatological Conditions We See
- Allergies: The most common cause of skin problems in pets; they’re usually food- or contact-related or environmental
- Skin infections: Commonly caused by bacteria or fungi
- Parasitic infestations: Due to fleas, ticks, and other parasites
- Immune-mediated disease: When the body's immune system attacks healthy skin
- Ear infections: Often breed-related (dogs with flopped ears are more susceptible) but can be caused by allergies
- Middle and inner-ear diseases: Bulla disease, primary secretory otitis media
- Skin tumors
- Haircoat abnormalities: Loss/thinning of hair, dry hair coat (can be due to genetic abnormalities or endocrine/metabolic disease)
To Refer a Patient or Schedule a Consultation With Our Dermatology Department:
Pet Parents
Call 609-259-8300 or contact dermatology@northstarvets.com to schedule your appointment and complete pre-consultation paperwork.
Referring Veterinarians
Please call NorthStar VETS at 609-259-8300 or contact dermatology@northstarvets.com.
