Business Details
32 Years
experience
Expert Pet Dermatology Services in Vancouver, BC
As the first veterinary clinic in Western Canada devoted exclusively to animal dermatology, we specialize in diagnosing and treating complex skin, ear, nail, and allergy conditions in pets. Our team of board-certified veterinary dermatologists brings decades of combined experience, having completed rigorous training including ACVD-accredited residencies. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools such as intradermal allergy testing and skin biopsies to identify root causes rather than merely addressing symptoms.Our approach combines cutting-edge treatments with personalized care plans tailored to each pet's unique needs. With a proven track record in managing chronic cases, we prioritize client education to empower pet owners with preventative strategies. Our facility maintains the highest standards of compassionate care, ensuring pets receive stress-free treatment while owners benefit from transparent communication and follow-up support.
Services
Allergy Skin Testing
Apoquel Treatment
Food Allergy Diagnosis
Ear Infection Treatment
Paw & Nail Disorders
Immune Disorder Management
Skin Cancer Treatment
Mites Treatment
Seborrheic Disorders
Hormonal Disease Care
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- Our team includes Canada's first board-certified veterinary dermatologists
- Advanced diagnostics including intradermal allergy testing and skin biopsies
- Personalized treatment plans for chronic skin and allergy conditions
- Proven success in resolving complex, long-term pet dermatology cases
- Compassionate care with stress-free treatment environments for pets
Associations and certifications
- ACVD (American College of Veterinary Dermatology)
What people say
Healthy happy dog
Diagnostic quickly and accurately
All natural approach
Reasonable rates
Excellent follow-up
Services
Allergy Skin Testing
Our intradermal allergy testing identifies environmental allergens affecting pets. After sedation, allergens are injected into shaved skin areas. Reactions within 20 minutes help create customized immunotherapy plans. This diagnostic approach enables long-term solutions through allergen avoidance strategies, dietary changes, or targeted treatments that address root causes rather than temporary symptom relief.
Ear Infection Treatment
We specialize in chronic ear infection treatment for dogs and cats. Our approach combines microscopic analysis of ear discharge with culture testing to identify bacterial or fungal causes. Treatment protocols include medicated cleansers, targeted antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. For recurrent cases, we investigate underlying allergies or anatomical issues contributing to infections, providing comprehensive solutions that prevent future occurrences.
Food Allergy Diagnosis
Our food allergy assessment uses elimination diets with novel proteins and carbohydrates to identify problematic ingredients. Over 4-6 weeks, pets are monitored for symptom improvement. Positive responses are confirmed through controlled food challenges. We provide detailed guidance on hypoallergenic diets and help owners navigate commercial food options while ensuring complete nutritional balance during and after the diagnostic process.
Paw & Nail Disorders
We diagnose and treat complex paw and nail conditions including bacterial infections, autoimmune disorders, and traumatic injuries. Diagnostic tools include cytology, culture testing, and histopathology. Treatment plans address both immediate symptoms through topical/oral medications and long-term management strategies for chronic conditions like lupoid onychodystrophy or recurrent interdigital cysts in dogs.
Immune Disorder Management
Our specialists manage complex immune-mediated skin diseases like pemphigus and lupus. Diagnostic approaches include skin biopsies and immunofluorescence testing. Treatment combines immunosuppressive therapies with monitoring protocols to balance disease control and quality of life. We provide ongoing support for managing chronic conditions requiring long-term medication adjustments and regular follow-up evaluations.
People
Dr. Mike Charach
Board-Certified Veterinary Dermatologist
Dr. Charach became Western Canada's first board-certified veterinary dermatologist in 1994 after completing residencies at the University of Florida and training with leading specialists in California, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. With over 30 years of experience, he specializes in allergy immunotherapy and complex skin disorder management.
Olivia Smith
Office Manager
Olivia oversees clinic operations with over 15 years of veterinary practice management experience. She coordinates patient care schedules and ensures smooth administrative operations while maintaining client communication standards.
Emily Siedel
Veterinary Assistant
Emily provides hands-on patient care with specialized training in dermatological procedures. She assists with allergy testing, sample collection, and client education about home care protocols for pets with chronic skin conditions.
Questions
What information should I bring to a dermatology appointment?
Bring your pet's complete medical history, current medications, and detailed symptom descriptions. Include any previous treatment records and photographs showing condition progression.
What skin conditions do you treat?
We treat allergic dermatitis, bacterial/fungal infections, parasitic conditions, autoimmune diseases, and genetic skin disorders in cats and dogs using advanced diagnostic methods.
Can I use human skincare products on pets?
No - pet skin has different pH and absorption rates. Human products may cause irritation or toxicity. Our specialists recommend appropriate veterinary-formulated alternatives.
What is a board-certified veterinary dermatologist?
They have completed 3-4 years of university, 4-year veterinary school, 1-year internship, and 2-year ACVD-accredited residency, passing rigorous specialty certification exams.
How do medications affect allergy testing?
Steroids require 30-day withdrawal, antihistamines 7 days, and topical treatments 14 days before intradermal testing. Essential fatty acids need 7-day withdrawal to ensure accurate results.
