As a pet owner, there's nothing more distressing than seeing your dog constantly scratching, licking, or biting at their skin. Often, these behaviors are a sign of dog allergies, which are incredibly common but can be challenging to diagnose and treat effectively without the right expertise. That's where we come in.

Dr. Falk founded our veterinary dermatology practice in 2024, recognizing the growing need for specialized care in veterinary dermatology in Connecticut. Upon acquiring the former Shakespeare Veterinary Hospital from Dr. Milos, we undertook a comprehensive renovation to transform it into a state-of-the-art center dedicated to providing the best care for dogs suffering from a variety of skin conditions, including those caused by dog allergies.

Our new facility is fully equipped to treat the most challenging skin conditions and provide relief for your furry friend. From advanced diagnostic tools to specialized treatment areas, we are committed to offering the highest standard of care for dogs struggling with allergies, infections, and other dermatological issues.

Understanding Dog Allergies and Their Impact

Dog allergies are a common but often misunderstood condition. Dogs can develop allergies to various environmental factors, food ingredients, or even flea bites. While the symptoms of dog allergies can sometimes be subtle, they usually involve noticeable changes in behavior, such as:

  • Excessive scratching or licking



  • Hair loss, often in patches



  • Red, inflamed, or irritated skin



  • Ear infections



  • Chronic ear scratching or head shaking



If your dog is suffering from any of these symptoms, it could be the result of allergies. These allergies can be broadly categorized into three main types: environmental allergies, food allergies, and flea allergies.

1. Environmental Allergies

Environmental allergens are one of the most common causes of dog allergies. These include pollen, dust mites, mold, and even the dander from other pets. When a dog with environmental allergies comes into contact with these allergens, their immune system overreacts, triggering itching, skin inflammation, and other uncomfortable symptoms. At our clinic, we offer allergy testing to help pinpoint environmental allergens that might be affecting your dog's skin.

2. Food Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies to certain foods. Common culprits include beef, chicken, wheat, corn, and soy. If your dog is allergic to a specific ingredient in their food, they may develop symptoms such as itching, hot spots, gastrointestinal issues, or chronic ear infections. We offer food sensitivity testing and can work with you to create a tailored diet plan to reduce allergy flare-ups and improve your dog's overall health.

3. Flea Allergies

Flea allergies are another major cause of dog allergies, and they tend to cause intense itching and discomfort. Dogs with flea allergies are extremely sensitive to flea saliva, even from a single flea bite. Symptoms of flea allergies include persistent itching, hair loss, and scabs. We can help identify flea allergies through thorough diagnostics and recommend appropriate flea prevention treatments to reduce your dog's discomfort.

How We Treat Dog Allergies at Our Veterinary Dermatology Center

At our veterinary dermatology center, we understand that dog allergies can be frustrating for both pets and their owners. That's why we've invested in state-of-the-art facilities and diagnostic tools to accurately identify the cause of your dog's allergic reactions and create an effective treatment plan.

Comprehensive Dermatological Exams

When you bring your dog in for an examination, our team will perform a thorough dermatological exam to evaluate the condition of your dog's skin and identify any signs of allergies, infections, or other dermatological issues. This detailed examination allows us to get to the root cause of the problem and ensure that we develop a treatment plan that targets your dog's specific needs.

Advanced Diagnostic Tools for Accurate Results

We offer advanced diagnostic tools, including skin scrapings, cytology, and allergy testing, to help us identify the allergens affecting your dog. Whether we are performing tests to diagnose flea allergies, food sensitivities, or environmental allergens, our on-site laboratory ensures quick results, allowing us to start treatment promptly.

Customized Treatment Plans for Dog Allergies

Once we have determined the cause of your dog's allergies, we will work with you to create a customized treatment plan. This plan may include:

  • Allergen avoidance strategies: We provide advice on how to limit your dog's exposure to specific allergens, such as using hypoallergenic bedding or adjusting their environment to reduce exposure to pollen or dust mites.



  • Medications: Depending on your dog's condition, we may prescribe antihistamines, steroid treatments, or immunotherapy injections to help manage symptoms and provide relief from itching and inflammation.



  • Topical treatments: We may recommend medicated shampoos or topical creams to soothe irritated skin and promote healing.



  • Flea control: For dogs with flea allergies, we offer effective flea prevention and treatment options to eliminate flea infestations and prevent future flare-ups.



Surgery for Severe Skin Conditions

In some cases, a dog allergy may lead to more serious skin issues, such as infections or abscesses that require surgical intervention. Our surgery suite is equipped with the latest technology to perform dermatologic surgeries safely and effectively, ensuring your dog receives the necessary care to restore their health.

On-Site Pharmacy for Convenience

Our on-site pharmacy ensures that all the medications your dog needs are readily available. Whether it's antibiotics, antifungals, or medications for allergy management, we provide everything under one roof for your convenience.

Preventing Future Allergy Flare-Ups

Once we have successfully treated your dog's allergy symptoms, we will help you develop a plan to prevent future flare-ups. This may include ongoing medication, regular grooming, or a change in diet. Additionally, we offer advice on how to create a hypoallergenic environment to reduce your dog's exposure to common allergens.

Contact Us for Expert Care

If your dog is suffering from dog allergies, don't wait for the symptoms to worsen. Our team of veterinary dermatology specialists is here to provide the care your pet needs to find relief. With our advanced diagnostic tools, expert treatments, and state-of-the-art facility, we are committed to helping your dog live a healthier, more comfortable life.