Frequently Asked Questions

WE WANT TO TAKE CARE OF YOU! 

        
Here are some questions & answers that we are frequently asked. If you have additional questions that aren't covered here, please feel free to give us a call at Atlanta Veterinary Skin & Allergy Clinic (770-936-8922).

What is a veterinary dermatologist?

A Veterinary Dermatologist is a veterinarian who, after four years of veterinary medical school, has completed three to four years of additional and advanced training within the specialty area of allergy and dermatology. An individual may then become board certified (a Diplomate) by qualifying to take, and then passing, a rigorous written and practical examination covering all aspects of veterinary and comparative allergy and Dermatology. As of 2007, just over 160 veterinarians world-wide, have earned  the title of Diplomate from The American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD).

Should my pet see a veterinary dermatologist?

A variety of conditions affecting the skin, coat, or ears of your pet may require the skills of a veterinary  dermatologist. The pet is often very itchy; may have thinning fur or no hair; show discolored, raw, or open and bleeding wounds on the skin; suffer from ear, yeast and/or bacterial infections; have swollen paws; and generally feel very sick.  A veterinary dermatologist has had focused dermatologic training for several years beyond the veterinary medical degree. Their extensive training and experience make veterinary dermatologists extremely qualified in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious and non-infectious skin diseases, parasitic skin diseases, allergy and allergy induced skin conditions, autoimmune diseases, cancer of the skin, and skin manifestations of systemic disease. 

What kind of condition requires treatment by a veterinary dermatologist?

Any condition that involves the skin, fur, nails, ears, and anal sacs may be evaluated and treated by a dermatologist. Chronic infections and inflammatory conditions of the ears are almost always related to skin or allergic disorders. Veterinary Dermatologists have been specifically trained to diagnose and treat chronic or reoccurring ear and skin disorders.  Specialized diagnostic procedures  (including skin scrapings, microscopic examination of skin samples for bacterial and yeast infections, bacterial and fungal cultures, biopsies, video otoscopy, laser surgery, surgical removal of tumors, intradermal allergy testing, specialized topical therapies, whirlpool baths and other forms of hydrotherapy, etc) are performed in the process of evaluating a pet with a dermatologic condition.

How is my general practice veterinarian involved?

The services provided by a dermatologist are an extension of the care offered by your veterinarian. We do not take the place of your general practitioner.  The best care of your pet is provided by mutual  communication between your veterinarian and the specialist. Information from your veterinarian regarding medical history, and previous and current therapy is invaluable in developing a plan for your pet. You may bring a copy of your pet's medical records or copies may be faxed to us from your veterinarian. A complete report will be mailed or faxed to your veterinarian summarizing your visit and our findings.

What is the American College of Veterinary Dermatology?
The American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD) is an organization of veterinarians certified as specialists in dermatology. The college is recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association, and must maintain the highest standards of training and certification for new veterinary dermatologists. To be certified as a veterinary dermatologist, a veterinarian must have had at least 2 years of postgraduate residency training accredited by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology. This includes intensive training in basic anatomy, physiology and pathology of the skin, clinical dermatology and dermatopharmacology. Most residencies are done at colleges of Veterinary Medicine, however, some occur in private veterinary specialty practices. In addition to the successful completion of the required residency training, the certification process includes the requirements of original research, publication in scientific journals, and demonstration of superior case management. The final step in certification is a comprehensive examination administered by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology. Dermatologists must receive continuing education on a regular basis in order to maintain certification. 

What are the Clinic hours?

Our clinic is open Monday and Friday from 9:00am to 3:00pm, Tue, Wed and Thur 9-12:30 and 2-6pm.  The clinic is closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Do I need to have an appointment?

Yes, patients are seen by appointment only.  First time clients are requested to work with their general practice veterinarians so that we can obtain all pertinent medical information before the visit.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept Cash, Check, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover, and we also offer Care Credit for qualifying individuals.

Is financing available?

No. Payment is required in full at the time of service.

What is the pre-anesthetic blood screening?

This is a blood test that is run prior to surgery or before procedures requiring general anesthesia. It tests the organ functions, blood counts and clotting function of your pet. The pre-anesthetic blood screening is done to assure safety during surgery and the ability to heal following surgery.

How do I make an appointment?

Just call our office at 770-936-8922 and our client care coordinator or receptionist will be happy to assist you! You may also print out and complete the dermatology medical history form and patient information form provided on this website. Be sure to bring these forms with you to your first visit!