Skin allergies are a common concern in both dogs and cats, often causing significant discomfort and leading to secondary infections if left untreated. At Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Richmond, we’re here to help you identify the signs early and provide the care your pet needs to feel better, faster.
Dermatology and Allergy Testing in Richmond, TX
What Do Skin Allergies Look Like in Pets?
Your pet’s skin and coat can reveal a lot about their health. If you notice any of the following changes, it may be a sign of an underlying allergy or skin condition:
- Frequent itching, chewing, or licking
- Redness or irritation
- Unusual hair loss
- Head shaking or ear scratching
- Hives, bumps, or a rash
- Hot spots
- Dry skin
- Rubbing the face, ears, or hind end on carpet or furniture
Prolonged irritation can lead to secondary bacterial infections and self-inflicted injuries from constant biting or scratching. Don’t wait—schedule an appointment today to ensure your pet gets a prompt diagnosis and the relief they deserve.
How We Help Pets with Skin Issues and Allergies
At NVC Richmond, we take a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to managing skin conditions in pets. Whether your pet is dealing with allergies, infections, parasites, or chronic dermatological concerns, our goal is to pinpoint the cause and build a personalized treatment plan that offers lasting relief and improved comfort.
From diagnosis to prevention, we’re here to help your pet feel better in their skin—literally.
Conditions Treated
- Allergies, including environmental, food, flea, and contact allergies
- Bacterial and fungal skin conditions
- Superficial irritations, such as hives, rash, and bumps
- Chronic ear infections
- Immunologic conditions
- Atopic dermatitis
- Parasites
Advanced Testing
Many pets suffer from chronic allergies or recurring skin conditions because the true cause hasn’t been diagnosed. Without specific information about the trigger for your pet’s skin irritation, allergy, or hair loss, treatment can provide only temporary relief—not a permanent solution. At Neighborhood Veterinary Centers, we use specialized testing to achieve real results, including:
Allergy testing — Serum allergy testing involves looking for allergen antibodies in your pet’s blood, while skin testing—considered the gold standard of allergy diagnosis—involves injecting tiny allergen samples beneath your pet’s skin to assess their inflammatory response.
Skin cytology — Cytology is a microscopic review of your pet’s skin cells to find bacteria, fungi, or parasites.
Skin biopsy — For some deep dermatological conditions, a small tissue biopsy is necessary to achieve accurate diagnosis.
Treatment For Pet Skin Conditions
Once the cause of your pet’s irritation is diagnosed, our veterinarians can devise a targeted treatment and management plan that provides effective anti-inflammatory relief, rebuilds the skin barrier, and—ideally—strengthens your pet’s immune system against future pathogens, parasites, or allergens. Treatment options include:
Oral, topical, or injectable medication — These include antibiotics, antifungals, antihistamines, or anti-inflammatories.
Itch-receptor blockers — New medications are available that stop allergic itching by acting on the chemical receptor that stimulates pets to scratch.
Allergy injections — Using allergy test results, immunotherapy can gradually desensitize your pet to their specific allergens.
Topical treatments — Medicated shampoos, wipes, and frequent bathing can help reduce debris, allergens, and bacteria on the skin.
Common Pet Allergy FAQ's
What Are the Most Common Causes of Pet Allergies in Richmond, TX?
In our area, pets commonly suffer from environmental allergies due to seasonal pollen, mold, grasses, and dust mites. Flea allergies and food sensitivities are also frequent culprits of skin irritation.
How Do I Know If My Dog Has Allergies or Just Dry Skin?
If your pet is experiencing chronic itching, licking, ear infections, hot spots, or hair loss, it’s more likely to be allergies than dry skin. A veterinary exam can help determine the cause and provide relief quickly.
What Can I Do at Home to Help My Pet’s Skin Condition?
Regular bathing with veterinary-approved shampoos, consistent flea prevention, and diet changes can all reduce inflammation and itching. We’ll guide you on what’s best for your pet based on their diagnosis.
A better, happier life starts now!
Call us today at Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Richmond to request an appointment and get started.
Schedule AppointmentCall Now: (281) 645-0666