Dermatology and Ear Care

Dermatology and Ear Care in Pacific Grove, CA

Itchy skin and sore ears are among the most common reasons pets visit the veterinarian. Our staff has significant training and experience in recognizing, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the skin, including the ears, nails, hair, and mouth. Dermatology is one of Dr. Brynie Kaplan Dau’s special interests, and we look for the cause of your pet’s discomfort, not just the symptoms, so relief lasts.

Understanding Skin and Ear Problems

Many veterinary skin diseases are similar to conditions in humans, but most are unique and may occur in only one of the many types of animals a veterinarian cares for. These diseases range from skin cancer to allergies, and treatment options vary tremendously. Skin disease can also be a sign of an underlying internal disease, which is why skin care is closely linked to internal medicine, immunology, and allergy.

A pet’s skin and ears are closely linked as well. Allergies, parasites, and infections that affect the skin often affect the ear canals too, which is why many itchy pets also have recurring ear infections. Left untreated, skin and ear conditions can cause constant itching, painful sores, thickened skin, and long-term damage to the ear canal.

What to Expect During a Skin or Ear Visit

We start by understanding your pet’s history and examining the skin and ears closely.

History and Exam

Your veterinarian asks when the problem started, whether it comes and goes with the seasons, and what your pet eats and is treated with. We then examine the skin, coat, nails, paws, and ears from nose to tail.

Looking Inside the Ear

We examine the ear canal and eardrum to look for infection, debris, or foreign material. For a closer look, video otoscopy lets us see deep into the canal on a screen and show you what we see.

Testing to Find the Cause

Depending on what we find, we may recommend skin or ear samples examined in our diagnostic laboratory, allergy testing for pets with ongoing itch, or other tests when an underlying internal disease is suspected.

A Treatment Plan You Can Follow

We explain the diagnosis and build a plan that fits your pet and your routine, including how to clean ears or apply treatment at home, and when to come back for a recheck.

Why Skin and Ear Care Matters

Chronic itch and ear pain affect your pet’s sleep, mood, and comfort every day. Getting to the root cause helps break the cycle.

Lasting Relief From Itching

Treating the underlying cause, not just the itch, means fewer flare-ups and a more comfortable pet.

Protects the Ear Canal

Repeated or untreated ear infections can thicken and narrow the ear canal over time. Early care helps prevent lasting damage.

Healthier Skin and Coat

Healthy skin is your pet’s first line of defense against infection and parasites, and changes in the skin can be an early clue to other health problems.

Signs Your Pet May Need a Skin or Ear Exam

• Frequent scratching, licking, or chewing
• Head shaking or tilting, or pawing at the ears
• Ear odor, discharge, or redness
• Hair loss, scabs, or red, irritated skin
• New lumps or changes in the skin
• A swollen ear flap
• Recurring hot spots or skin infections

If you notice any of these signs, call us to schedule an exam. Pets with ongoing ear disease that doesn’t respond to treatment may be candidates for ear surgery, which we can discuss with you.

Practice Highlights

• Special Interest in Dermatology: Dr. Brynie Kaplan Dau
• In-House Diagnostic Laboratory for skin and ear samples
• Continuity of Care with the same doctor and long-term staff
• Cat Friendly Practice® Gold
• Voted Best Vet in Monterey County by Monterey Weekly six years in a row