Skin & Allergy Treatment

The three most common causes are environmental allergies (pollen, mold, dust mites), flea allergy dermatitis (reaction to flea saliva), and food allergies. In Florida, environmental allergens are active year-round due to our warm climate, and flea exposure is constant without prevention.

Persistent scratching usually indicates an underlying allergy or skin condition—not just "dry skin." The itch-scratch cycle damages the skin barrier, leading to secondary infections that make the itching even worse. We need to identify and treat the root cause to break this cycle.

Apoquel (oclacitinib) is an oral medication that targets the itch signal in your pet's immune system. It provides fast relief—often within 24 hours—and is safe for long-term use in dogs over 12 months old. We monitor bloodwork periodically for dogs on long-term therapy.

Cytopoint is a monthly injection that targets and neutralizes the protein (IL-31) that triggers itch in dogs. It works differently than Apoquel—it doesn't suppress the immune system. Many dogs get 4-8 weeks of relief from a single injection. It's one of the safest allergy treatments available.

Food allergies typically cause year-round itching (especially ears, paws, and face), chronic ear infections, and sometimes GI symptoms. The only reliable way to diagnose a food allergy is an 8-12 week elimination diet using a novel protein or hydrolyzed diet—blood tests for food allergies are not reliable.

Recurring ear infections are almost always caused by underlying allergies. The allergic inflammation changes the ear environment, allowing yeast and bacteria to overgrow. Treating the infection alone isn't enough—we need to manage the underlying allergy to prevent recurrence.

Yes! Cats commonly develop environmental allergies and food sensitivities. Signs include over-grooming (causing bald patches), chin acne, miliary dermatitis (tiny scabs), and itchy ears. Treatment options for cats include steroids, Apoquel (in some cases), and environmental management.

Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis) are often triggered by an underlying allergy that causes your dog to lick, chew, or scratch one area obsessively. The damaged skin becomes infected and spreads rapidly. We treat the hot spot and investigate the allergic trigger to prevent recurrence.

Initial diagnosis (exam, skin testing, cytology) is typically $150-$300. Ongoing medication costs vary: Apoquel runs about $50-$100/month depending on your dog's size; Cytopoint injections are $50-$150 per dose given every 4-8 weeks. We work with you to find an effective, affordable management plan.

It depends on the type of allergy. Environmental allergies are typically managed long-term since the allergens can't be eliminated. Food allergies can often be controlled by avoiding the trigger ingredient. Flea allergies resolve with consistent, year-round flea prevention.

More often—but with the right shampoo. Medicated or hypoallergenic shampoos can remove allergens from the skin and coat, soothe inflammation, and treat secondary infections. We recommend bathing allergic pets every 1-2 weeks with a veterinarian-recommended product.

Florida's warm, humid climate means environmental allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites are active year-round. There's no winter freeze to provide relief. Flea populations also thrive 12 months a year. This makes consistent, proactive allergy management essential for Florida pets.