DERMATOLOGY (skin)

Skin disease is a common problem we see in veterinary medicine. Bacterial or fungal infections, external parasites (such as fleas, lice, ticks, and mites), food intolerances, environmental allergies, immune-mediated diseases, hormonal diseases, and inflammatory conditions can all lead to skin problems.

Itchiness, hair loss, bumps or lumps on the skin, rashes, ulcers, crustiness, or a greasy, smelly coat can all indicate a dermatological problem in your pet. Ear problems are common, and can happen suddenly or be very chronic in nature. These conditions can often be very uncomfortable, and need to be addressed.

Some skin problems are chronic in nature, and cannot be cured once and for all. These conditions require consistent management and follow up visits to keep the problem under control, and ensure the comfort of your pet.

We will refer you to a specialist as necessary.

ENDOCRINOLOGY (hormones)

Endocrinology deals with hormonal imbalances in the body. Hormonal diseases can occur as a result of an excess of certain hormones, such as hyperthyroidism, or due to a lack of hormones, such as diabetes.

The endocrine glands are located throughout the body, and include the pancreas and adrenal glands in the abdomen, the thyroid and parathyroid glands in the neck, and the pituitary gland and hypothalamus in the brain. The ovaries and testicles also produce hormones, but as most pets are neutered, we do not commonly see abnormalities related to these organs.

Hormonal diseases can cause a multitude of clinical signs, depending on what organ is affected, and whether the problem is an excess or a deficit of a particular hormone. Skin problems such as hair loss or recurrent infections, increased drinking and urinating, weight loss or weight gain, weakness and lethargy, and excessive panting are just a few of the common signs that we see related to endocrine problems.

We will refer you to a specialist as necessary.

ONCOLOGY (cancer)

Oncology is the study of cancer. The focus of Oncology Services is to provide treatment options that meet the specific needs of each client whose pet has been diagnosed with cancer. These options may include conventional chemotherapy and radiation, surgery, new investigational therapies, are all viable options for treating cancer, as well as palliative care to keep them comfortable as they deal with this disease.

We will refer you to a specialist as necessary.

Our goal is to improve the quality of life not quantity of life for pets that are afflicted with cancer. If an animal is having side effects from treatment, or is suffering pain, then treatment may not be the right answer. At Polden Hills Veterinary Centre we will help you reach the best decision for your beloved pet and you. You are not alone!

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