Welcome to this episode of The Underdog Vet Podcast! In this episode's Animal Advocate Interview, I spoke to veterinary dermatologist Millie Rosales DVM, DACVD. Dr Rosales is a board certified veterinary dermatologist, specializing in the care of animals with skin and ear disorders. Since one of the main causes for skin and ear problems in dogs and cats is allergies, she also specialises in allergic disorders of animals. Dr Rosales runs a specialist veterinary practice in Miami, Florida where she and her team help relieve pets of some truly uncomfortable conditions. Millie and I spoke about why it's so important for owners to have a good understanding of the commonest dermatology condition in dogs, when is the right time to take your dog to the vet and why managing skin conditions in pets can be very frustrating for all concerned! Millie and I mentioned lots of terms some people may not be familiar with, so I have explained them here: Atopic Dermatitis: Atopic dermatitis is an allergic skin disease affecting both dogs and cats. The exact cause or development of atopic dermatitis is not fully understood but it is currently thought that affected animals are genetically predisposed and as a result, they have an exaggerated immune response and defective skin barrier. A poor skin barrier allows easy penetration of bacteria/yeast (naturally residing on the skin) and environmental allergens (such as pollens and mites) and consequently, these “foreign invaders” exacerbate the detrimental cycle of skin inflammation and feeling itchy. Interleukin31 (Canine IL-31): A substance in the immune system of dogs that contributes to them feeling itchy. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD): Some cats' immune systems have an exaggerated response to the saliva of fleas and so when they are bitten by fleas they can react and causes the cat to scratch excessively causing scabs on the skin, often along the middle of the back, along with thin or missing fur. Vestibular: If the inner ear becomes infected animals can develop Vestibular Syndrome, more information here: https://vetspecialists.co.uk/fact-sheets-post/vestibular-syndrome-in-dogs-and-cats-fact-sheet/ Allergens: Substances that trigger an allergic reaction. Hypoallergenic food: Foods made using proteins whose molecules have been broken down into smaller chains that are less likely to cause allergies and intolerances. Hydrolysed food: Foods made using proteins whose molecules have been broken down into single components by hydrolysis. Due to the breakdown, the dog's body is no longer able to recognize the proteins contained in its food as foreign and potentially allergenic substances so unlikely to cause allergies and intolerances. Links: Millie's Veterinary Practice Website (in Miami, Florida, USA): https://miamivetderm.com/ Atopic Dermatitis Info for owners: https://vetspecialists.co.uk/fact-sheets-post/treatment-of-atopic-dermatitis-in-dogs-and-cats/ Allergies in Dogs and Cats - More Information for owners: https://vetspecialists.co.uk/fact-sheets-post/allergies-in-cats-and-dogs/