Skin and ear issues are common reasons for dogs and cats to visit a veterinarian. Allergies are often the underlying root cause of these problems. The most noticeable sign of allergies is itchiness (pruritus), which can manifest as scratching, chewing, licking (especially of the paws), rubbing, scooting, and over-grooming (common in cats). Other symptoms of allergies can include redness of the skin, hair loss, excessive scaling/crusting, hyperpigmentation (skin color change/darkening), odor, and papules/pustules. Uncontrolled allergies can lead to recurrent skin and ear infections, necessitating multiple veterinary visits and increased risk of resistant disease or irreversible damage.

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In addition to allergic diseases, Dr. Smart also treats a variety of other dermatologic conditions, including autoimmune, infectious, congenital/hereditary, hormonal, and some neoplastic causes.

Pet Dermatology in Hardeeville

Canine and feline allergies
Management of recurrent skin and ear infections
Nail and perianal/anal gland disorders
Autoimmune skin diseases
Parasitic and atypical fungal/bacterial infections of the skin
Hair loss and pigment disorders
Keratinization (scale) disorders
Endocrine/hormonal disease
Viral skin disease
Some neoplastic (cancer) conditions of the skin and ears
Congenital/hereditary disorders of the skin and ears

New River Veterinary Specialists diagnose and treat the following:

Pet Dermatology Services

Diagnostic cytology (ears and skin), trichography, and skin scraping
Intradermal and serum allergy testing
Elimination diet trial
Video otoscopy, deep ear cleaning, and myringotomy

In-house CT scan/radiologist review
CO2 laser for mass removal
Skin biopsy/dermatohistopathology
Bacterial and fungal testing
Therapeutic nail dremeling

Chronic discomfort and caregiver fatigue are often overlooked consequences of recurrent dermatologic issues, which can result in a decline in quality of life and strain the relationship between you and your pet. Dr. Smart will work closely with you to determine an appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic plan tailored to your pet’s needs. The ultimate goal is to reduce the amount of time you spend at the vet and ensure your pet lives a comfortable, happy, and healthy life!

Pet Dermatology Services

Diagnostic cytology (ears and skin), trichography, and skin scraping
Intradermal and serum allergy testing
Elimination diet trial
Video otoscopy, deep ear cleaning, and myringotomy
In-house CT scan/radiologist review
CO2 laser for mass removal
Skin biopsy/dermatohistopathology
Bacterial and fungal testing
Therapeutic nail dremeling

Chronic discomfort and caregiver fatigue are often overlooked consequences of recurrent dermatologic issues, which can result in a decline in quality of life and strain the relationship between you and your pet. Dr. Smart will work closely with you to determine an appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic plan tailored to your pet’s needs. The ultimate goal is to reduce the amount of time you spend at the vet and ensure your pet lives a comfortable, happy, and healthy life!