Tips and Tricks on Talking Dermatology With Your Veterinary Clients

Dr. Ruth Cawston

Does your heart sink when you see “itchiness” or “ear problems” pop up on your consult list? Dermatology cases can be challenging, both medically and relationally, for us to deal with in a relatively short appointment. These are just a few tips to help make those appointments – and the follow-ups – go more smoothly.

1. Be Proactive

One of the reasons that dermatology cases make the seasoned veterinarian’s heart sink is because we know that problems that appear simple – like an ear infection or a hot spot – often have an underlying cause.

You don’t have to have an in-depth discussion on diagnosis and treatment of atopy each time you see one of these cases, but it’s helpful to lay the groundwork in case it does become a recurrent issue. Mention that there might be an underlying cause, and if so, that the problem might come back. This prepares the owner.

You don’t have to have an in-depth discussion on diagnosis and treatment of atopy each time you see one of these cases.

2. Be Prepared

Dermatology can be complex, with a myriad of diagnostic and treatment options available. While it is important to chat through these things in person, we also know that clients don’t retain everything we tell them.

Pre-printed handouts, leaflets, or signposts to reputable websites can all help clients to remind themselves of what you discussed and make subsequent conversations easier.

3. Be Compassionate

Having a pet with chronic dermatological issues sucks. It’s expensive, time-consuming, and above all distressing for the owners to see their dogs so uncomfortably itchy. We often forget these things because we consider these cases to be “routine,” but each and every one can be a real struggle for both pet and owner.

It’s important to listen to and acknowledge these difficulties in each dermatology consult that you take. In particular, pay attention to the problems that the owner prioritizes – not just the ones that you think are medically most serious. Make sure your treatment plan addresses all aspects of the problem.

Dr Ruth Cawston

Ruth graduated from Cambridge in 2014 and has worked as a small animal GP vet ever since. She is particularly interested in internal medicine, as it combines her love of problem-solving and her somewhat geeky love of knowledge, and has completed her certificate in Small Animal Medicine. She loves animals of all species but is particularly fond of cats.