Monday-Friday: 7:30AM-5:30PM;
1st & 3rd Saturday: 8:00AM-5:00PM;
Sunday: Closed;

Dermatology and Allergy Care

Relief for itchy dogs and cats in Shreveport, LA. Dermatology and allergy care at Progressive Pet Hospital. Schedule today.
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Dermatology and Allergy Care for Dogs and Cats in Shreveport, LA

Itchy, Scratching, Miserable? Let’s Help Your Pet Feel Better.

If your dog is licking their paws raw or your cat keeps shaking their head and scratching their ears, you are not alone. In Shreveport and Bossier City, allergies are one of the most common reasons families visit our veterinarian.

Louisiana’s humidity, long pollen seasons, and year-round flea exposure create the perfect environment for skin irritation. What starts as mild itching can quickly turn into hair loss, hot spots, ear infections, and ongoing discomfort.

At Progressive Pet Hospital, dermatology care is personal. Dr. Julie Barnes takes time to understand your pet’s history, your concerns, and your goals. Some families want advanced diagnostics right away. Others prefer a practical, step-by-step plan. Both are welcome here.

Dermatology and Allergy Care for Dogs and Cats in Shreveport
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Why Skin Problems Are So Common in Shreveport Pets

Allergies in dogs and cats often fall into a few categories:

Environmental allergies to grass, trees, pollen, or mold

Flea allergy dermatitis

Food sensitivities

Chronic ear infections

Bacterial or yeast skin infections

Hot spots

Hair thinning or hair loss

In our Shreveport climate, pets are exposed to allergens much of the year. Even indoor pets can react to airborne irritants brought inside on clothing or through ventilation systems.

Common signs of allergies include:

Constant scratching or chewing

Paw licking

Red or inflamed skin

Recurrent ear infections

Scooting

A musty odor to the skin

Regular check-ups with our veterinarian are one of the best ways to prevent mild irritation from becoming a chronic issue. Early treatment often means less medication and faster relief.

Getting to the Root of the Itch

Getting to the Root of the Itch

Skin issues can look similar on the surface, but the underlying cause may be very different. That is why a thoughtful diagnostic approach matters.

Depending on your pet’s symptoms, we may recommend:

Skin cytology to look for bacteria or yeast

Ear cytology for pets with recurring ear problems

Skin scrapings to rule out mites

Bloodwork to assess overall health

Prescription diet trials to evaluate food allergies

Allergy testing in select cases

Dr. Barnes explains findings in plain language so you understand what is happening and why. We focus on education without overwhelming you. You deserve to feel confident about your pet’s care.

Treatment Plans That Fit Real Life

There is no single “best” allergy treatment for every pet. Some dogs respond beautifully to one medication. Others need combination therapy and ongoing adjustments.

Treatment options may include:

Apoquel for itch control

Cytopoint injections

Medicated shampoos and topical therapies

Antibiotics or antifungals for secondary infections

Short courses of steroids when appropriate

Prescription allergy diets

Consistent flea prevention

Long-term allergy management plans

Some pets need support during peak allergy seasons. Others require year-round care. Our veterinarian works with you to create a plan that balances medical effectiveness with your family’s comfort level and budget. Every pet has a story. Every family has a budget. We are here for both.

Prevention Makes a Difference

Preventive care plays a large role in dermatology. Staying consistent with flea prevention, maintaining a stable diet, and keeping up with wellness exams can significantly reduce flare-ups.

Skin conditions tend to escalate if ignored. What begins as mild itching can develop into painful infections that require more intensive treatment. Seeing our veterinarian early often keeps care simpler and more affordable.

If your pet has a history of allergies, routine monitoring visits allow us to adjust medications and strategies as seasons change in Shreveport and surrounding areas like Ellerbe Road and Forbing.

Why Choose Progressive Pet Hospital for Dermatology Care?

Progressive Pet Hospital is a locally owned veterinary clinic serving Shreveport, Bossier City, and nearby communities. That local connection matters.

You will see a familiar face. You will have open conversations. You will receive honest recommendations without pressure.

Dr. Julie Barnes combines advanced diagnostics with practical medicine. Whether your pet needs in-house testing, prescription therapy, or long-term allergy management, we are equipped to help.

We care for energetic retrievers who cannot stop rolling in grass and senior cats with sensitive skin. We love pitties and pocket pups alike. Veterinary care should feel supportive and approachable. That is what we strive to provide every day.

Prevention Makes a Difference

Let’s Help Your Pet Feel Like Themselves Again

If your dog or cat is dealing with chronic itching, skin irritation, or recurring ear infections, you do not have to manage it alone.

 

To schedule a dermatology consultation at Progressive Pet Hospital in Shreveport, LA, you can request an appointment through our app, call us directly at (318) 553 2345, submit a request through Vello, or email our team at team@progressivepethospital.com.

 

Our team at Progressive Pet Hospital is here to make the process simple and supportive, so your pet can get relief as soon as possible. Relief is possible. Let’s build a plan that helps your pet feel comfortable in their own skin again.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Allergies

Yes. Our veterinary team can administer oral medications, injections, and insulin as prescribed.

Because boarding is inside our hospital, our veterinarian can examine your pet and contact you if any concerns arise.

Dogs: Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella
Cats: Rabies, FVRCP
Vaccines must be current before boarding.

Common signs include frequent scratching, licking paws, red skin, recurrent ear infections, and hair loss. If symptoms last more than a few days or keep returning, schedule an exam with our veterinarian for evaluation.

Most environmental allergies are managed rather than cured. The goal is long-term control that keeps your pet comfortable. Food allergies can sometimes be fully controlled with the right prescription diet.

Both medications are widely used and considered safe for many dogs when prescribed appropriately. During your visit, Dr. Barnes will discuss benefits, potential side effects, and whether your pet is a good candidate.

Recurring ear infections are often linked to underlying allergies. Treating the infection alone may provide temporary relief, but addressing the allergy is key to preventing future flare-ups.

Some treatments provide relief within days. Others, such as diet trials, may take several weeks. We will outline realistic expectations so you know what progress should look like.