What's the Difference Between a Vet and a Veterinary Dermatologist?
- Dr Simon Want BVM&S CertVD MRCVS RCVS
- Jan 13
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
General vets may see lots of different animals with an array of conditions and issues. Whereas a veterinary dermatologist can be considered a skin vet for dogs and cats, who help pets with skin, ear and nail problems. If your pet is experiencing issues with their skin, ear or nails you may need more specialised care from a veterinary dermatologist. Knowing the differences between a vet and a dermatologist could help you know when to get your pet more specialist care.
In this article we’ll discuss:
What Does a General Veterinarian Do?
A general veterinary surgeon (vet) may see any and all species. From dogs, cats, rabbits to exotic pets with a range of illnesses.
On any given day a vet may be vaccinating animals and helping them via preventative healthcare, operating on pets, mending broken bones, treating animals with diabetes or heart disease, looking into problems with the eyes, or skin or ears.
As a vet, you never know what might come in next and it is a very rewarding, yet challenging role. A vet’s main challenge is time, especially with complex skin and ear problems. This is why it can be a good idea to see a dog or cat dermatology specialist.
What Is a Veterinary Dermatologist?
A veterinary dermatologist is someone who only sees animals that have problems with their skin, ears and nails. They have undertaken further training and exams and hold additional qualifications specific to animal dermatology. They must stay current and are reviewed by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) every five years. A list of those recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons can be found online.:
At Advanced Dermatology we hold a Certificate in Veterinary Dermatology and Dr. Simon Want is a recognised Advanced Practitioner in Veterinary Dermatology.
As a dermatologist for dogs and cats, skin vets have much longer consultations than general vets. They can spend an hour or more taking a detailed history, examining your pet and taking samples to look at within the consultation using a digital microscope. You can see the images the dermatologist sees on a screen.
The Advanced Practitioner may take additional samples to obtain a diagnosis, including blood samples or skin biopsies. During a consultation, they may suggest more specialist tests such as allergy testing. If presented with ear disease a specialist vet may use a special endoscope for ears, called a video otoscope. This allows a magnified examination and can allow treatment of the outer or middle ear that would be impossible without this specialist scope.
“I am only one of three dermatologists in England who have a CO2 laser that can allow treatment options which are impossible without access to this technology. With the laser we can treat chronic, painful tissue in the ears and feet, warts and skin lumps.” Dr. Simon Want
Key Differences in Vet and Veterinary Dermatologist Training and Expertise
All veterinary surgeons in the UK undertake a five year degree at university. To specialise in dermatology to become a skin vet for cats and dogs two years of additional training and self-directed study in veterinary dermatology, and support from a mentor who was already a veterinary dermatologist is required.
To be awarded the RCVS Certificate in Veterinary Dermatology rigorous exams and case book creation is also required.
All vets in the UK must undertake 35 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) every year. However, Advanced Practitioners must undertake 50 hours of CPD every year and be revalidated every five years in order to stay on the list of Advanced Practitioners.
Dermatology specialists and Advanced Practitioners focus only on animal diseases related to the skin, ears and nails such as:
Dog and feline allergies
Ear disease and infections
Chronic foot problems
Parasitic diseases
Skin infections, diseases, pigmentation changes and skin cancers
Anal furunculosis
Scaling and crusting diseases
Immune-mediated and auto-immune skin diseases
Vet dermatologists focus mainly on diagnosing disease and managing conditions medically. However, with access to video-otoscopy we can treat the deeper structures of the outer and middle ear and, with a laser, conditions can be treated that would be almost impossible otherwise.
It is with this extra training, knowledge and specialised diagnostics and treatments that vets may choose to refer your pet to a veterinary dermatologist.
When a Veterinary Dermatologist Becomes Essential
In some instances seeing a vet that specialises in dermatology is needed. You should ask for a referral to a vet dermatologist or book an appointment with us if:
Your dog or cat has recurrent skin and ear symptoms
You feel frustrated with a lack of progress with your pet’s condition
Your pet has a new skin complaint and you want a quick and accurate diagnosis
Your pet has chronic infections that are failing to respond to therapy
Your pet has signs of pain or discomfort associated with the condition
When a diagnosis hasn’t been achieved
You are presented with limited treatment options
You need access to advanced diagnostic and therapeutic equipment
Communication with your vet results in frustration
Most clients find dermatologists after being referred by their own primary veterinary surgeon. But did you know you can ask for a consultation or second opinion without veterinary referral?
Simply contact us to find out if we can help with your pet’s condition.
How Vets and Dermatologists Work Together
If you have been referred by your general practice veterinary surgeon then rest assured that the dermatologist liaises and communicates with them so that they are informed in relation to diagnosis and treatment.
Many skin and ear conditions are recurrent and can be life-long. It is important both you and your home vet understand the diagnosis and treatment plan to achieve the best outcome for your pet.
During the referral process you shall typically receive a written treatment plan. Your home vet will also be provided with information to further help you and your pet.
“We are a team consisting of you, myself and your home vet, with your pet at the heart of what we do. By building a lasting relationship with our clients and referring vets, this teamwork ensures optimal outcomes.” Dr. Simon Want
Benefits of Seeing a Veterinary Dermatologist
There are many benefits to a veterinary dermatological referral, but the main reasons to seek help from a vet dermatologist and Advanced Veterinary Dermatology include:
Years of experience as a veterinary dermatologist
Passion for delivering the best care and outcomes
Excellent communication with both pet owners and referring vets
Quicker, more accurate diagnosis
Advanced medical and surgical treatments
The latest diagnostic and surgical equipment
Long-term management and prevention strategies
Improvement in symptoms using the most appropriate medications
Cost effective, fixed price packages mean no unexpected surprises
“I’m proud to say it’s my job, but it’s also my passion, and I am one of those lucky people who love their job and enjoy helping my patients and meeting their owners.” Dr. Simon Want
Choosing the Right Care for Your Pet
In today's world we have many options open to us for advice and treatment for our pets. Some prefer Dr Google, but this has limitations as we know. A general practice veterinary surgeon is a generalist by their very nature and does an excellent job for the majority of complaints your dog or cat may get over their lifetime.
However, the skin, ears and nails offer unique challenges that can sometimes be most effectively dealt with by a well managed referral to a veterinary dermatologist.
Many conditions can become chronic and irreversible. Earlier intervention can avoid drastic surgery or life-threatening complications. At the very least your pet can return to normal more quickly, giving them the quality of life they deserve, and saving time, money and upset.
Don’t delay. Ask your vet to refer or contact us today.
Sources and References:
Written and Approved by:
Dr Simon Want BVM&S CertVD MRCVS
RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Veterinary Dermatology
Director of Advanced Veterinary Dermatology Ltd
Comments