Pet Dermatology in Lubbock, TX
Skin problems are among the most common reasons dogs and cats visit the veterinarian. Conditions affecting the skin, coat, ears, and paws can be very uncomfortable and even debilitating for your pet, leading to constant itching, licking, hair loss, and infections. At Hub City Veterinary Clinic, our veterinarians draw on years of experience and training to diagnose the root cause of your pet’s skin issues and create a treatment plan that brings real, lasting relief.
Common Skin Conditions in Pets
We diagnose and treat a wide range of dermatologic conditions, including:
- Environmental allergies (atopic dermatitis)
- Food allergies and sensitivities
- Flea allergy dermatitis
- Bacterial and yeast skin infections
- Chronic and recurring ear infections
- Hot spots and lick granulomas
- Mange and other mite infestations
- Ringworm and fungal infections
- Skin lumps, growths, and masses
- Autoimmune skin disease
Signs Your Pet May Have a Skin Problem
Contact us if your pet is scratching, chewing, or licking excessively, has red or inflamed skin, bald patches, scabs, a greasy or flaky coat, an unusual odor, head shaking, or recurring ear infections.
Modern Allergy Treatment Options
Awareness and treatment of environmental and food allergies are constantly evolving in veterinary medicine. Unlike years past, many of today’s treatment options are safe, well tolerated, and easy to use on a routine basis. Depending on your pet’s needs, we may recommend modern anti-itch medications, prescription diets and elimination food trials, medicated shampoos and topical therapies, skin and ear cytology, skin scrapings, and targeted treatment of secondary infections. Consistent flea and tick control is also an essential part of managing itchy pets.
Skin Health as a Window to Overall Health
Healthy skin is vital to your pet’s overall well-being, and skin changes can also provide clues about internal health problems. Skin and coat abnormalities may be linked to thyroid disease, Cushing’s disease, allergic disease, nutritional deficiencies, kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, cancer, and various infectious diseases. When needed, we use bloodwork and other diagnostics to look beyond the surface. For pets with chronic inflammation, complementary options such as laser therapy can also help soothe irritated skin.
If your pet is experiencing skin problems, we are here to help. Call Hub City Veterinary Clinic at (806) 701-5000 to schedule a dermatology consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Dermatology
Why is my dog constantly itching?
Common causes include fleas, environmental allergies, food allergies, and skin infections. Our veterinarians can identify the cause and recommend effective treatment.
Can pets have food allergies?
Yes. Food allergies can cause itching, ear infections, and digestive upset. A veterinarian-guided elimination diet trial is the best way to diagnose them.
What causes recurring ear infections in dogs?
Recurring ear infections are often linked to underlying allergies. Treating the allergy helps prevent future infections.
Can skin problems be a sign of another health issue?
Yes. Skin and coat changes can be linked to thyroid disease, Cushing’s disease, kidney disease, autoimmune disorders, and other internal conditions.
How are pet skin conditions diagnosed?
Diagnosis may include a physical exam, skin scrapings, cytology, fungal testing, allergy evaluation, food trials, and bloodwork.
Are there safe long-term treatments for pet allergies?
Yes. Many modern allergy medications are safe for routine, long-term use and can greatly improve your pet’s comfort.
When should I bring my pet in for a skin problem?
Schedule a visit if your pet has persistent itching, hair loss, redness, sores, odor, or ear problems that do not resolve within a few days.
