New Patients

Plan on spending 1 1/2 hours for the initial dermatological examination. Follow-up visits are 45-60 minutes.

On your first visit we will ask you for the completed comprehensive dermatological history form about your pet and the completed client information form (see link to the left). For the first appointment, please come 10-15 minutes early to allow for computer entry.  We do not want data entry to take time away from your appointment.

Using your input, we will perform a dermatological examination of your pet. A tentative diagnosis will then be provided to you. We will discuss in depth your pet’s dermatological condition, provide applicable handouts summarizing its condition, discuss possible diagnostic tests, treatment plans, and prognosis. Quite often these conditions are chronic and complicated, and there may be concurrent diseases involved. These will all have to be considered.

In consultation with you, we will discuss treatment options and a course of action. Your input is vital to the diagnostics and treatment regime that is indicated. Together we can decide what is best for your pet’s dermatological conditions, but of course the final decision is up to you as to what best suits your needs.

Upon completion of the initial appointment, a comprehensive referral letter will be sent to your veterinarian summarizing diagnosis, diagnostics, and the treatment plan. Subsequent appointments will be summarized to your veterinarian as well.

Communication is very important to ensure the best possible care for your pet. We encourage you to ask questions both during and after the appointment, especially if you are unsure of anything we discussed.

Prior to the Initial Appointment

The more information that we have, the better we will be able to evaluate and treat your pet.

To help us serve you better please bring:

• Your pet’s complete medical records provided by your referring veterinarian. The majority of the time, we will call your primary veterinarian and have the records sent in time for your initial appointment. If not, we will ask you to have them mailed or faxed to us.
• The completed Dermatology History and Client Information forms (see link to the left).
• All medications including shampoos and conditioners.
  
• An ingredient and brand label from the foods you are feeding your pet.
  
• DO NOT BATHE YOUR PET 5 DAYS PRIOR TO THE APPOINTMENT.
  
• DO NOT CLEAN EARS 3 DAYS PRIOR TO THE APPOINTMENT.
  
• FOLLOW YOUR VETERINARIAN’S recommendations regarding other continuing treatment.