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Pet skin allergies can be a bit sneaky. 

Dog scratching itself, likely suffering from pet skin allergies.First of all, the skin is the body’s largest organ – so there’s lots of physical space for issues to arise. 

Second, animals are furry! Their skin can often be hard to see, so you might not notice redness, inflammation, bumps, lesions, or other issues right away (not to mention how difficult it can be to get a good look between toes or inside ears). 

Finally, because there are so many factors that can contribute to skin irritation – environment, diet, trauma, hygiene, parasites, or other diseases, to name a few – treatment is rarely simple or straightforward for pet skin allergies. 

Five Quick Pet Skin Allergy ‘Spot Checks’


Keeping on top of any issues your companion might have helps prevent more significant problems down the line. Here are
five ‘spot checks’ that you can add to your regular wellness checklist to make sure you notice any subtle signs of pet skin allergies or other dermatological concerns:

Eyes – Your companion’s eyes should be clear and bright. If you spot redness or thinning/missing fur around the eyes, this can be a sign of irritation.
Skin and Coat – Their skin should not be red, flaky, or dry, and their coat should not be greasy. You can also use a flea comb to check for fleas, and keep a careful watch for ticks.
Ears –  Your companion’s ears should not be red, painful, odorous, or have any buildup or discharge. Notice if you see them frequently shaking their head, scratching their ears or rubbing their face on the floor.
Paws – The pads of your pet’s feet put up with a lot, whether it is enduring cold, muddy winters or hot summer sidewalks. Make sure to check their feet regularly for any redness, pain, odour, or sores.
Fur Coverage – With the exception of breeds who are naturally hairless, your companion should be covered in fur. Any ‘naked’ spots cropping up should be assessed by your vet.

Regardless of the cause, skin issues are usually itchy and irritating. You will likely notice your pet scratching, licking, rolling, or rubbing against things in an effort to ease their discomfort. If you notice any signs of concern, don’t hesitate to book a veterinary consultation so we can help get to the bottom of this itchy issue.

Dog licking its paw, likely suffering from pet skin allergies.
Cat scratching itself, likely suffering from pet skin allergies.
Dog having its ear scratched, likely itchy as a result of pet skin allergies.