When your pet has skin issues, you can get them the care they need through veterinary dermatology. A dermatologist has additional training and experience that the average veterinarian does not have, which allows them to effectively treat these unique conditions. Here's what you should know about this field of pet medicine.

Why Veterinary Dermatology Is Beneficial

The average veterinarian gets a four-year undergraduate degree followed by a four-year education at an accredited veterinary school. To practice veterinary dermatology, they must then complete an additional one-year internship and three-year residency and pass a board examination. This additional schooling and experience give them in-depth knowledge about skin conditions and diseases. 

A dermatologist can quickly diagnose issues with minimal testing and create a personalized treatment plan that will provide relief from unpleasant symptoms while targeting the underlying cause for a long-term resolution. This quick and effective care will make your pet comfortable more quickly and prevent secondary infections as a result of an untreated condition. 

When to See a Dermatologist

Lack of Improvement

It's typical to take your pet to your regular veterinarian if they start to show signs of skin problems, such as rashes and itching. Depending on the issue, your vet may be able to provide a prescription or an alternative treatment plan. But if the issue doesn't improve or gets worse, they may not have the knowledge or resources to treat it. In that case, seeing a specialist is best.

Chronic Issues

Some skin conditions are chronic, which means there is no cure. Common chronic conditions include pyoderma, allergic dermatitis, and autoimmune conditions. When these kinds of problems persist, it's best to manage them with a specialist's care to keep your pet as comfortable and healthy as possible. 

If you think your pet would benefit from veterinary dermatology, take them to The Pet Clinic in Honolulu, HI. Serving families across Oahu, Dr. Scott Harada is a member of the American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology and equipped to diagnose and treat all types of skin conditions and diseases. Learn more about the animal hospital's services on their website, and schedule an appointment by calling (808) 946-5096.