What's that smell? January 2023Jon Plant, DVM, DACVDDogs have two small secretory structures near their anus, called anal sacs, which produce a strong-smelling secretion. If the secretion is not regularly expressed through defecation, it can build up...
Should the hair in your dog’s ears be plucked? January 2023Jon Plant, DVM, DACVDMany dogs have fine, short hair in the ear canal, all the way down to the level of the ear drum. But certain breeds and their crosses grow so much...
The most common causes of ear infections in dogs March 2022Jon Plant, DVM, DACVDEar infections are one of the most frequent reasons dogs are seen by veterinarians. These infections are often recurrent, making them uncomfortable for the pet and frustrating for pet parents....
Testing dogs for food allergy dermatitis November 2021Jon Plant, DVM, DACVDThe most common causes of allergic, itchy skin in dogs are fleas, environmental triggers, and ingested proteins. Veterinary dermatologists usually begin by making sure that flea allergy dermatitis is ruled...
How to treat the cause of skin allergies in pets September 2021Jon Plant, DVM, DACVDThere are several effective treatments to control itch in dogs that have allergic skin disease (atopic dermatitis). Among the most commonly prescribed are Apoquel, Cytopoint, Atopica, and prednisone. Each of...
How often should dogs’ ears be cleaned? August 2021Jon Plant, DVM, DACVDMost dogs do not require routine use of ear cleaning solutions. The ear canal naturally moves ear wax and trapped debris away from the ear drum to the opening of...