Skin disease is one of the most common reasons owners bring their pets in, and one of the most frustrating to manage when the underlying cause is not identified. At OC Pets we approach dermatology methodically: every skin case starts with a full history, a complete physical and dermatological examination, and in-house diagnostic testing to identify the specific cause. This allows targeted treatment rather than repeated short courses of antibiotics and steroids that provide temporary relief but allow the problem to cycle back.
Diagnosing Skin Conditions
We use a combination of clinical examination, Wood's Lamp UV screening, skin scrapes for mite detection, impression smears and tape preparations for cytology, in-house microscopy and culture where indicated. This allows rapid identification of mange mites, bacterial pyoderma, yeast (Malassezia) overgrowth, ringworm and other common causes.
For complex or refractory cases, skin biopsies and specialist laboratory panels may be warranted. We do not continue guessing with symptomatic treatment when the pattern of disease does not fit a common diagnosis.
Allergy Assessment and Management
Allergic skin disease, including atopic dermatitis, food allergy and contact allergy, is increasingly common in UAE pets. Symptoms include persistent itching, repeated ear infections, chronic paw licking, facial rubbing and recurrent skin infections. The hot, humid environment of Dubai makes secondary yeast infections particularly common in predisposed breeds.
Management begins with identifying and eliminating possible allergens. Food allergy assessment uses a strict dietary elimination trial. Environmental allergen management may involve targeted immunotherapy, Apoquel, Cytopoint injections or Atopica depending on severity. We follow evidence-based protocols and avoid long-term steroid dependence where possible.
Ear Disease (Otitis)
Ear infections are often a symptom of an underlying cause: allergy, anatomical conformation, hormonal disease or foreign body. Treating the infection without addressing the cause leads to recurrence. Our approach includes cytology to identify the specific organisms (bacteria, yeast or a combination), video otoscopy to assess canal and eardrum integrity, and a treatment plan that addresses both the infection and its predisposing cause.
Chronic otitis cases may require deep canal flushing under sedation, long-acting otic treatments placed by the veterinary team or a surgical consultation for canal management in severely diseased ears.
Sebaceous Adenitis and Autoimmune Skin Disease
Sebaceous adenitis, pemphigus, vasculitis and other immune-mediated skin conditions are less common but require accurate diagnosis as they respond to treatments very different from infectious or allergic skin disease.
When the pattern of skin lesions does not fit common diagnoses and empirical treatment has not produced a sustained response, we pursue biopsy and specialist histopathology. This is not a last resort; it is good medicine applied at the right time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes recurring ear infections in dogs?
The most common underlying cause is allergy, including food allergy and environmental atopy. Anatomy plays a role in floppy-eared breeds where airflow is reduced. Hypothyroidism is a less common but important cause. Treating only the infection without finding the underlying cause results in recurrence.
How is food allergy diagnosed in pets?
The only reliable way to diagnose food allergy is a strict dietary elimination trial using a novel protein or hydrolysed protein diet for a minimum of 8 weeks. No allergy blood tests for food have been validated reliably in dogs or cats. It requires commitment, but it is the definitive method.
My dog scratches constantly. Is this always allergy?
Not always. Fleas (even one or two), mange mites (Sarcoptes, Demodex), yeast infections and bacterial pyoderma all cause significant itching. Before assuming allergy, we systematically rule out these other causes. This is why the workup matters before starting any long-term treatment.
Is chronic skin disease curable?
It depends on the cause. Infections caused by bacteria, yeast or mites are curable with appropriate treatment. Atopic dermatitis (environmental allergy) is a lifelong condition that can be very effectively managed but not cured. Most dogs with well-managed atopy lead comfortable, normal lives.
What breeds are most prone to skin disease in Dubai?
French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, West Highland White Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers and Shar Peis are over-represented for allergic and infectious skin disease. The hot, humid climate increases the risk of secondary yeast infections in skin-fold breeds.
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