Dermatology

Effective skin care for dogs and cats in Summerton, SC. Relief for itching, allergies, and infections at Lake Marion Animal Hospital.

Veterinary Dermatology for Dogs & Cats in Summerton, SC

Is Your Pet Scratching More Than Usual?

When your dog or cat keeps scratching, chewing, or rubbing their skin, it may signal more than just a passing irritation. At Lake Marion Animal Hospital in Summerton, our veterinary team knows how frustrating and uncomfortable skin conditions can be for pets. They also know how worrying they are for pet owners. That’s why our dermatology service focuses on identifying the cause of the problem and guiding you toward relief and long-term management.

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Why Skin Health Deserves Your Attention

Your pet’s skin and coat do more than look nice. They serve as the first line of defense against the environment, help regulate temperature, keep out parasites and bacteria, and reflect overall health.

When something goes wrong like excessive itching, hair loss, or recurring infections, it often means the body is trying to signal an underlying issue. Ignoring skin issues can lead to secondary infections, discomfort, and unnecessary suffering. Early care helps restore comfort and prevent complications.

Common Skin Conditions in Dogs and Cats

While every case is different, many pets are treated for some of the following frequent skin conditions:

Allergies (environmental, food, flea bite): Pets may scratch, chew, or develop red, inflamed skin.

Flea‑allergy dermatitis: A single flea bite triggers intense itching and hair loss, especially near the tail or lower back.

Hot spots (acute moist dermatitis): Localised, often rapidly developing lesions caused by scratching or licking, sometimes infected.

Parasitic skin conditions (mites, mange, ear mites): Can result in hair loss, crusting, deep itching or self‑trauma.

Bacterial or yeast skin infections: Often secondary to allergies or other skin problems; require diagnosis and treatment.

Chronic or recurring skin problems: These require a longer‑term strategy rather than a quick fix.

Common Skin Conditions in Dogs and Cats

How Our Dermatology Service Helps

Skin Evaluation and Diagnostic Testing

Your pet’s care begins with a full exam and health history. We assess the skin, coat, ears, and any specific areas of concern. Our in-house diagnostics may include:

Skin scrapings

Cytology

Fungal cultures

Allergy screening

Blood work, if needed

These tests help us identify the root cause quickly, so we can begin the most effective treatment.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Once we identify the issue, our veterinary team creates a care plan that may include:

Medicated shampoos and topical treatments

Prescription medications to reduce itching or inflammation

Flea control and parasite prevention

Special diets for suspected food allergies

Skin supplements and hygiene routines

Referrals for advanced allergy testing if needed

We focus on treating the symptoms and managing underlying causes to provide long-lasting relief.

Why Summerton Pet Owners Trust Lake Marion Animal Hospital

Lake Marion Animal Hospital is proud to serve Summerton and the surrounding communities with a blend of small-town warmth and modern convenience. Pet owners appreciate our:

Locally owned clinic with deep community ties

Convenient location for Summerton, Sumter, Santee, Manning, Turbeville, and Charleston County

On-site diagnostics, including ultrasound, endoscopy, dental imaging, and radiology

USDA certification for travel and health documentation

Friendly, clear communication by phone, text, or walk-in

Otto text scheduling system

Award-winning care recognized by Best of Clarendon County

Let’s Help Your Pet Feel Better, Sooner

Don’t wait for a small itch to turn into a big problem. If your dog or cat is showing signs like persistent scratching, red or inflamed skin, hair loss, or ear problems, we invite you to make an appointment with our veterinary team at Lake Marion Animal Hospital in Summerton.

 

You can call us at 803-488-8800 or use the Otto widget on our website to schedule. We’ll guide you through first steps, help answer any questions, and tailor a plan that suits your pet and your lifestyle.

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Let’s Help Your Pet Feel Better, Sooner
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Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Dermatology

Constant scratching can be a sign of fleas, allergies, dry skin, or infection. Our team will examine your dog and run any needed tests to determine the cause.

Yes. Some pets have food sensitivities that show up as itchy skin, ear infections, or gastrointestinal upset. We may recommend an elimination diet to find the trigger.

Hot spots are red, moist, and often painful areas that develop when pets lick or scratch a specific spot repeatedly. They can be caused by allergies, insect bites, or moisture trapped under the fur.

Most dermatology cases can be diagnosed and treated here at our clinic. If needed, we may refer your pet to a board-certified veterinary dermatologist for advanced testing or treatment.

Keeping up with flea and tick prevention, feeding a balanced diet, regular grooming, and routine checkups can help prevent many common skin issues.