Dermatology

Canine allergic skin disease is, hands down, the most common condition we manage in first-opinion practice. Cats can be affected too, though they tend to show slightly different signs.

Allergies often present in subtle or frustrating ways. You might notice:

* Recurrent ear infections

* Licking or chewing the feet

* Itching around the face, armpits or groin

* Scooting or discomfort around the bottom

* Red, sore, or scabby skin

* Skin infections that keep coming back

The key points to understand are that allergies are long-term conditions, and that they tend to worsen over time if left untreated. Chronic inflammation can lead to permanent scarring, thickened skin, painful ears, and secondary infections. Not to mention the emotional impact on both pet and owner due to chronic inflammation and pain.

At Whisker & Woof, we act fast to make an initial diagnosis and stop the itch as quickly as possible—your pet’s comfort comes first.

We then schedule a structured follow-up process over the coming weeks and months to get to the root of the problem. This usually includes:

* Identifying whether the allergy is **food-based** or **environmental**

* Testing, diet trials or elimination diets where appropriate

* Ongoing monitoring and client support

* Regular review of skin and ear health

* Stepwise introduction of medications or immunotherapy if needed

We constantly adjust and refine your pet’s treatment plan based on how they respond. Our aim is not just to reduce symptoms, but to improve quality of life, minimise flare-ups, and help you feel confident managing the condition at home.

The ears are one of the first places allergic skin disease shows up. If your pet has repeated ear infections, head shaking, waxy build-up or odour, it’s often a symptom of an underlying allergy—not just a dirty ear.

At Whisker & Woof, we use otoscopy and deep ear cleaning, as well as ear cytology to check for bacteria or yeast. By treating the root cause, not just the symptoms, we help prevent chronic pain, scarring and hearing loss.

Scooting, licking at the rear, or that tell-tale smell, anal gland issues are a common complaint. While occasional expression might be needed, repeated problems are rarely “just one of those things.”

Chronic anal gland problems often go hand-in-hand with food allergies, skin inflammation or underlying gut issues. Simply expressing them every few months isn’t a long-term solution.

We take the time to investigate:

* Your pet’s diet and stool quality

* Their skin and allergy history

* Whether infection or anatomical issues are at play

Then we create a preventative care plan, which may include dietary change, fibre supplements, allergy control or, in some cases, surgical intervention. The goal? Long-term comfort, not endless repeat visits.

• Rapid relief for itchy, uncomfortable pets
• Structured, step-by-step allergy investigations
• Long-term skin and ear health management
• Modern dermatology diagnostics and treatments
• Ongoing support and empowerment for owners

Skin and ear problems are frustrating—but they don’t have to rule your life. Whether your pet is already struggling or you’re just starting to see signs, we’re here to help.