What is a veterinary dermatologist?

A veterinary dermatologist is a veterinarian with advanced knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious and non-infectious skin diseases, allergic skin diseases, parasitic skin diseases, autoimmune skin diseases, recognition of the skin manifestations of systemic diseases, and diagnosis of skin tumors or cancer. A veterinary dermatologist has advanced training in the field of dermatology and allergy and is board certified through examination by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology. Qualification for board examination is attained after the completion of a 2 or 3 year dermatology residency and satisfactory completion of specified credentials. Once board-certified, each veterinarian is required to remain up to date on the advances in veterinary dermatology. This is achieved through attending scientific meetings and continuing education seminars required by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology.

What is a veterinary dermatology technician?

Under the guidance of the veterinary dermatologist, a veterinary dermatology technician plays an integral role in a veterinary dermatology service. Such technicians are typically trained by the veterinary dermatologist to perform specific duties unique to the specialty of veterinary dermatology.

STVAD veterinary dermatology technician roles include:

• Effective client communications
• Obtaining specimens for cytologic evaluation, skin scrapings, cultures and biopsies
• Preparation and submission of specimens to diagnostic laboratories
• Inventory supply and management
• Appointment schedule management
• Maintaining efficient operations of the clinical service
• Assisting the dermatologist in advanced diagnostic techniques
• Performing of allergy testing for interpretation by the veterinary dermatologist
• Venopuncture
• Animal handling
• Pharmacy management and prescription preparation
• Anesthesia induction, monitoring, and patient recovery
• In-hospital patient care
• Performance of  therapeutic topical therapy