July Insight: Managing Summer Allergies and Skin Conditions at Express Vets Kennesaw

Summer in Kennesaw often means blooming pollen, humid heat, and more insects—all of which can trigger skin issues in pets. At Express Vets Kennesaw, we see a significant rise in allergy-related visits this time of year. July is the perfect month to take proactive steps toward managing your pet’s discomfort, from early diagnosis to long-term control.

Identifying the Problem

Skin allergies—or “atopy”—can present in dogs and cats as:

• Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing
• Red, inflamed, or greasy skin
• Recurrent ear infections
• Hot spots or areas of hair loss

While fleas and food allergies are possibilities, July’s environmental factors—pollen, mold spores, dust mites—often play a major role. These allergens penetrate a pet’s skin barrier, triggering inflammatory responses that lead to chronic itching and infection risk.

A Systematic Approach to Diagnosis

Instead of relying just on symptom relief, Express Vets Kennesaw emphasizes diagnostic precision:

1. Full Physical Exam and Skin Assessment
   We begin by ruling out external factors—fleas, mites, yeast, or bacterial infections. This foundational step ensures we don’t misdiagnose or over-treat.
2. Allergy Testing
   We offer intradermal skin testing and serum allergy panels. These identify specific environmental allergens, guiding more targeted treatment options like immunotherapy.
3. Food Elimination Trials
   Some pets respond better with an exclusion diet or hypoallergenic prescription. A controlled food trial—without wheat, chicken, or dairy—can reveal hidden intolerances exacerbating skin issues.
4. Ear Swabs and Culture
   Since skin allergies often trigger chronic ear conditions, we routinely test ear infections to choose effective topical or medical treatments.

Crafting an Effective Treatment Plan

Once our diagnostics confirm the culprit, we tailor a multi-pronged approach:

• Topical Therapy: Medicated shampoos, wipes, and rinses with soothing ingredients like oatmeal or hydrocortisone help calm inflamed skin.
• Antimicrobial Care: Shampoos or sprays with antifungal or antibacterial properties prevent secondary infections.
• Allergy Immunotherapy: Allergy shots or oral drops, derived from test results, gradually build tolerance to offending allergens.
• Nutrition and Supplements: We may recommend diets or omega-3 supplements that support skin integrity and reduce inflammation.
• Medications for Comfort: Short-term antihistamines or newer medications like Apoquel or Cytopoint offer itch relief while longer-term plans take effect.

Why July Is Ideal for Starting Treatment

Environmental exposure is at its highest in July—pollen counts are elevated, humidity is high, and insects thrive. Starting diagnostics or immunotherapy now means your pet will begin seeing relief sooner. Early intervention also helps prevent recurring infections or chronic damage from ongoing itching.

Coordinating Care with Your Routine

Express Vets Kennesaw offers evening and weekend appointments to fit busy summer schedules. We can often coordinate allergy testing and follow-through treatments in three visits:

• Visit 1: Full exam, swabs, blood samples, and test ordering.
• Visit 2: Return for skin testing and culture results.
• Visit 3: Review results and launch immunotherapy and topical care.

Follow-ups happen every 4–6 weeks until we establish symptom control—after which appointments can shift to seasonal check-ins.

The Benefits of Targeted Allergy Care

• Relief from chronic itching
• Decreased ear infections and skin infections
• Fewer medications needed long-term
• Clear, scented-free skin and coat
• A happier, calmer pet at home

Pets suffering from allergies often experience improved moods, better sleep, and more active play once discomfort subsides.

Express Vets Kennesaw aims to transform summer from “itchy season” into a time of comfort and joy. With tailored diagnostics and care plans, we can help your pet enjoy July—and the rest of the year—without scratching or suffering.

Ready to start your pet’s allergy evaluation? Call (678) 401-5579 or visit us at 4200 Wade Green Rd. Suite 100,Kennesaw, GA 30144 to schedule an appointment today. Your pet’s skin—and your shared summer moments—will thank you.