Equine Environmental Allergy Testing

PetDerm’s Approach to Allergies

At PetDerm, we use a methodicial, evidence‑based approach when evaluating horses for environmental allergies. Diagnosis isn’t based on testing alone—it starts with understanding the horse’s history, daily environment, and clinical signs.

Our evaluation typically includes:

• A detailed medical and skin history
• Assessment of seasonal patterns and environmental exposures
• A thorough physical and dermatologic examination
• Review of previous treatments and how the horse responded

This step‑by‑step process helps us rule out other possible causes of skin issues and determine whether environmental allergy testing is the right next step for that individual horse.

Intradermal Allergy Testing in Horses

PetDerm offers intradermal allergy testing for horses, the gold standard for identifying environmental allergens. This test involves introducing very small amounts of common local allergens into the skin in a controlled way, allowing us to observe, and measure the horse’s immune response.

This type of testing is especially helpful for horses with chronic, recurring, or difficult‑to‑manage allergic skin disease. PetDerm may recommend intradermal testing when long‑term management is expected to include immunotherapy.

Tailored Immunotherapy for Equine Environmental Allergies

Intradermal allergy test results guides the PetDerm team in creating a customized allergen-specific immunotherapy designed for the individual horse. Immunotherapy works by gradually desensitizing the immune system to identified allergens, helping reduce the severity of symptoms over time.

A Long-Term Management Plan

Similar to humans, environmental allergies are often lifelong, persistent conditions. Our goal at PetDerm is not just short-term symptomatic relief, but sustainable, long-term management that fits the horse’s lifestyle, environment, and performance needs. We work closely with horse owners and referring veterinarians throughout Calgary, Southern Alberta, and Western Canada to ensure continuity of care.

Unsure what is itching at your horse? We also offer other equine dermatology services, including the diagnosis and management of complex skin disease and food allergy consultations.

Equine Dermatology Referral Process

At PetDerm equine services, we prioritize your horse’s comfort and well-being. Simply ask your veterinarian to complete our online referral form, and once it’s submitted, a member of the PetDerm team will reach out to guide you through the next steps.

 Appointments are scheduled offsite, and we collaborate with your primary veterinarian to tailor each appointment to your horse’s specific needs.