Questions and answers to help prepare for your visit

Why was my pet referred to a veterinary dermatologist?

You may be wondering why your pet's primary care veterinarian referred you to Animal Dermatology & Allergy. The diagnosis and treatment of pet allergy, ear, and skin disease can be one of the most challenging and frustrating areas of veterinary medicine. While many dermatology cases can be successfully treated at the primary care level, some cases are so complex and involved that it becomes necessary to seek a specialist's opinion. Just as in the human medical field, veterinary medicine involves primary care practitioners as well as various specialists such as cardiologists, neurologists, surgeons, and dermatologists. The fact that your primary care veterinarian is utilizing the services of a specialist is a credit to their dedication to your pet. You can be assured that your pet's veterinarian is doing everything possible to achieve the best medical outcome.

What does it take to become a veterinary dermatologist?

After 4 years of veterinary school and passing licensing examinations, veterinarians have the option to pursue advanced training in a specific discipline of veterinary medicine. To become a veterinary dermatologist, a veterinarian must be accepted to and complete a rigorous 3 year residency program. Upon completing the residency program, they must pass a 2-day examination administered by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology before gaining board certification. Dr. Sakai is a board certified veterinary dermatologist.

Does my pet need to be referred by a veterinarian?

We are happy to schedule an appointment for any pet with a dermatological problem- a specific veterinary referral is not required.

How do I make an appointment?

You can schedule an appointment by calling us. We will do everything we can to accommodate your schedule. Please call the office location in which you would like your pet to be seen. The phone numbers for our various office locations can be found on the Contact page.

Is there anything I need to do to prepare for the appointment?

There are a few helpful things that can be done prior to your visit to Animal Dermatology & Allergy. These simple steps will help you and your pet get the most our of your visit.

1) Fill out and submit the client/patient information form. It's best if you can do this at least 24 hours prior to your pet's appointment.

2) Please DO NOT bathe or groom your pet for 1 week prior to the appointment. This makes it easier for the doctors to detect skin infections and to get the best possible diagnostic results.

3) Continue all medications prescribed by your pet's primary care veterinarian or other specialist veterinarians.

How much time will the appointment take?

If this is the first time we are seeing your pet, please plan on a 60 minute appointment time.  This will give the doctor enough time to get to know you and your pet, evaluate your pet's dermatological condition, and discuss diagnostic and treatment recommendations.

For recheck examinations, please plan on a 30 minute appointment time.