Pet Skin Infections & Parasite Treatment in the Chicagoland Area

Is your pet constantly itching, losing fur, or developing skin sores? Our team diagnoses and treats pet skin infections and parasitic conditions with expert care and proven solutions.

Targeted Diagnosis and Treatment for Pet Skin Conditions

At Midwest Veterinary Dermatology Center, we treat a wide range of infectious skin diseases and parasites affecting dogs and cats. These conditions are often uncomfortable, progressive, and contagious — requiring prompt, professional care. Whether your pet is battling bacterial, fungal, or yeast infections, or is suffering from mites, fleas, or parasite allergies, we offer advanced diagnostics and targeted treatment for long-term relief.

Our clinic in the Chicagoland area is led by a board-certified veterinary dermatologist who brings years of expertise and specialized tools to accurately diagnose skin conditions and tailor treatment to your pet’s needs.

Types of Skin Infections and Parasites That Affect Pets

Pets can suffer from a variety of skin infections and parasitic conditions, many of which look similar but require very different treatments. Common issues we treat include:

  • Bacterial skin infections (e.g., pyoderma)
  • Fungal infections like ringworm
  • Yeast overgrowth (e.g., Malassezia dermatitis)
  • Mite infestations, including Demodex and Sarcoptes
  • Flea allergy dermatitis and other parasite allergies
  • Secondary infections due to scratching or allergic skin disease

These conditions may cause symptoms such as persistent itching, scabs, hair loss, odor, and inflamed skin. Without proper diagnosis, infections can worsen, spread, or become resistant to treatment.

Black cat sitting on the couch

How We Identify the Cause of Your Pet’s
Skin Issues

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Our team uses a variety of diagnostic tools to identify the exact cause of your pet’s skin issues:

Cytology

Microscopic evaluation of skin or ear samples helps identify bacteria, yeast, white blood cells, or abnormal skin cells, often providing same-day insights.

Fungal Culture

Used to diagnose ringworm and other dermatophyte infections, this test grows fungal organisms in a lab setting to confirm their presence and guide treatment.

Skin Scraping

To diagnose mites and other microscopic parasites, we collect skin samples and examine them under a microscope, a critical step for pets with unexplained itching.

Tape Prep & Hair Plucks

Simple, non-invasive sampling techniques like tape prep and trichograms (hair shaft analysis) help detect surface parasites, fungal spores, and more.

Bacterial Culture & Sensitivity Testing

In resistant or recurrent cases, we perform culture and sensitivity testing to identify the specific bacteria and determine the most effective antibiotic.

Puppy standing on the sand

Tailored Treatment Plans for Skin & Parasitic Infections

Once we identify the cause, our dermatologists will create a customized treatment plan that may include:

  • Topical therapies (shampoos, sprays, ointments)
  • Oral antibiotics or antifungal medications
  • Medicated baths
  • Anti-parasitic treatments (oral, topical, or injectable)
  • Environmental control and hygiene strategies
  • Ongoing monitoring to assess treatment effectiveness and prevent recurrence

In the case of parasite allergies, we may also discuss longer-term strategies such as allergy management, immunotherapy, or environmental modifications.

We’re Here to Help with Your Pet’s
Skin Concerns

If your pet is suffering from itchy skin, rashes, or parasites, don’t wait. Let the experts at Midwest Veterinary Dermatology Center uncover the cause and deliver lasting relief with safe, effective care.