Blog: pet skin care

dog laying on the floor

Dog Hotspots

What is a hotspot? Living on Vancouver Island we tend to see a lot of hotspots here at Van Isle Veterinary Hospital. Hotspots are an acute, moist dermatitis (bacterial infection of the skin). A hotspot is typically a moist, red, smelly area of skin under the coat and will often...

long or short hair dog

To Shave or Not to Shave My Pet During the Summer?

Summer is here! With this these intense warm days upon us in the Comox Valley, we’ve switched to shorts and sandals and lazy days at the pool but we also have to think about how best to keep our pets comfortable, aside from putting their adorable winter jackets back in...

Allergies and Itching in Dogs

Allergies are a common cause of skin and ear conditions in dogs.  Dogs with allergies rarely show signs that are similar to people, who develop hay fever (sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose).