Allergies & Dermatology

 

Is your pet’s itchy skin keeping you both up at night?

There are many different ailments that can affect a companion animal’s skin. Whether it’s a topical problem, like a hot spot or rash, or something more in-depth like an infection, the symptoms can be unpleasant. You don’t want to see your best friend suffer like that, and neither do we! That’s why Animal Hospital of McHenry offers professional pet allergy and dermatology services as part of our comprehensive system of care. We want to help get your loved one as healthy on the outside as on the inside.

 

Diagnosing the Problem

The first step toward helping your furry family member feel better again is identifying the precise condition he or she is experiencing. Our hospital is outfitted with an in-house laboratory, which allows us to run a number of diagnostic tests quickly and efficiently. We may be able to tell what’s wrong just by examining your pet, or we may need to investigate further. Blood work, skin scrapings and biopsies help us get the answers we need to move forward with a cure.

Some of the dermatological issues we can provide assistance with include:

  • Allergies (food and/or environmental)
  • Infections (acute or chronic)
  • Parasites
  • Dermatitis
  • Hormonal disorders
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Tumors
  • Skin cancer

 

Developing a Treatment Plan

To determine how best to treat the problem, we will consider a number of unique factors. This allows us to develop a tailor-made approach just for your pet, designed to achieve the best possible results. Depending on the situation, we may recommend something as simple as applying a topical cream. More complex conditions may call for a combination of treatment methods.

Allergies may require a little more work to manage. Once we understand what’s causing your pet’s reactions, we will work toward a solution that will eliminate outbreaks as much as possible. Some allergies can be managed through lifestyle changes, such as switching food products. Others may require a longer-term strategy. Our recommendations will be based on your companion’s specific needs.

Signs of a possible skin problem include:

  • Excessive scratching
  • Scabbing or flaking of the skin
  • Hot spots
  • Shedding more than usual
  • Biting, chewing or licking at the affected area
  • Bumps or lumps on or under the skin

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Give the experienced team at Animal Hospital of McHenry a call. We can help your loved one live a more comfortable life.

 

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    • Mike JackiwMike Jackiw

      Wonderful staff and Dr. Tammy is one of the best ever! I’m so glad to have them caring for our two adopted dogs.

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    • Lynne Harms GeuzendamLynne Harms Geuzendam

      Dr. Tammy is very thorough and very thoughtful. She's patient and kind to her clients and their pets. Our dogs and cats showed no fear towards her or her staff. We'll never take our pets to anyone else. So very glad we found her!

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    • Mary T. DurosMary T. Duros

      This is one of the nicest animal hospitals I've been to. Large, homey, exam rooms with cushioned seats perfect for comforting and snuggling your furkid. Great staff! And Dr Tammy Schmitt. The BEST veterinarian in the greater Chicago area! And not a bad drive from Chicago at all. I highly recommend it.

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    • Stangebåy KayStangebåy Kay

      My dog, Feist, and I are thrilled to have access to such compassionate and professional veterinary services that are provided by Dr. Schmitt. Thanks to Dr. Schmitt, Karen, and Stacy for always treating our visits with great attention. I highly recommend this clinic.

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    • Aimee RoseAimee Rose

      I have now used Animal Hospital of McHenry 3 times now, with each visit being extremely satisfying. It is always nerve-wracking trying a new vet especially for a fur-mom like myself. This vets office has been nothing but worry-free since the first phone call. Every time I bring my dog in they greet her by name with treats. They do a great job or making it a positive experience for both canine and owner. I have always been treated with the utmost respect, kindness, compassion and empathy. My dog had her surgery on her tooth performed at this location and they called me through out the day to let me know how she was doing. My border collie can be a bit of a handful when she is stressed but they handled her so well. They allowed her to roam the back or be in a play pen because she is frightened by crates/cages. They let my dog be herself and allowed her to feel comfortable at her own pace.

      Again, I would highly recommend them and I thank them for the kindness and compassion they have shown myself as well as my most beloved furry friend. I will continue to be a loyal client and trust The Animal Hospital of McHenry with my babies.

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    • Emma OteroEmma Otero

      We LOVE this place! And are so glad we decided to switch and come here ! My puppy, Ted, can be a handful! Dr. Schmitt and the staff are so patient with him. From the minute we walk in he is greeted with smile and a treat! Even when he is being a little anxious and barking away! We had a couple issues with our Ted and Dr. Schmitt has been great with any questions or concerns we have. We would not take him anywhere else!

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    • Karen ShattuckKaren Shattuck

      Dr. Schmitt saved my dogs life with a very intense difficult surgery. She never wavered in her determination to save her. The entire staff was caring and concerned. No one can ask for anything else from such a great place!!!!!

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