
Based on checking the website, Vetderm.ca appears to be a legitimate and professional veterinary dermatology specialty service. They provide clear information about their board-certified veterinarians, their services, and locations. The site offers resources like articles and online forms, which adds to its credibility and user-friendliness.
Overall Review Summary:
- Legitimacy: High (appears to be a real, established veterinary practice).
- Transparency: High (provides names and credentials of doctors, locations, and services).
- Services Offered: Specializes in veterinary dermatology, including itch relief, allergy management, and ear diseases for canine, feline, and equine patients.
- Geographic Reach: Serves Western Canada with clinics in Vancouver, Victoria, St. Albert, Surrey, and Kelowna.
- Ethical Considerations: The services offered (veterinary care for pets) are generally permissible and beneficial. There’s no indication of interest-based financing, gambling, or other impermissible activities.
- Website Usability: Good (easy to navigate, clear calls to action for appointments and forms).
- Customer Feedback: Features positive testimonials from pet owners.
- Missing Information: While comprehensive, specific pricing details for services are not immediately visible on the homepage, which is common for medical services but worth noting for clarity. No clear hours of operation are listed, which can be inconvenient for new patients.
Vetderm.ca, operated by North West Veterinary Dermatology Services Ltd. (NWVDS), seems to be a reliable option for pet owners seeking specialized dermatological care in Western Canada. Their emphasis on board-certified specialists and a referral-only model suggests a focus on high-quality, targeted care. The presence of numerous articles and patient forms online also indicates a commitment to patient education and convenience. For those seeking expert veterinary dermatology for their beloved pets, Vetderm.ca presents itself as a solid choice.
Best Alternatives for Ethical Pet Care Products & Services:
When it comes to pet care, finding ethical, high-quality, and beneficial options is key. Here are some top alternatives focusing on general pet health and grooming products, aligning with ethical considerations.
-
Burt’s Bees for Pets All-Natural Tearless Puppy Shampoo
- Key Features: Made with natural ingredients, pH balanced for puppies, tearless formula, gentle cleansing.
- Average Price: $10 – $15 CAD
- Pros: Uses natural ingredients, safe for sensitive skin, widely available, pleasant scent.
- Cons: May not be suitable for all adult dogs with specific skin conditions, smaller bottle size for the price.
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Earthbath All Natural Pet Shampoo
- Key Features: Biodegradable, cruelty-free, no harsh chemicals, available in various formulas (oatmeal & aloe, eucalyptus & peppermint).
- Average Price: $18 – $25 CAD
- Pros: Environmentally friendly, effective for various skin needs, leaves coat soft and shiny.
- Cons: Slightly higher price point, some scents might be strong for sensitive pets.
-
TropiClean Natural Flea & Tick Bite Relief Pet Shampoo
- Key Features: Formulated with natural active ingredients like clove oil and cedarwood oil, paraben-free, soap-free.
- Average Price: $15 – $20 CAD
- Pros: Natural pest relief, gentle on skin, pleasant scent, effective for immediate relief.
- Cons: Not a preventative for fleas/ticks, only for relief, may require frequent application.
-
Andis Pet Grooming Tools (Clippers, Brushes)
- Key Features: Professional-grade grooming tools, durable, variety of clippers for different coat types, brushes for de-shedding.
- Average Price: Varies widely; clippers $100-$200 CAD, brushes $15-$40 CAD.
- Pros: High quality, long-lasting, efficient for at-home grooming, wide range of products.
- Cons: Initial investment can be high for clippers, requires some skill to use effectively.
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- Key Features: Durable natural rubber, hollow core for treats, promotes healthy chewing behaviour, comes in various sizes.
- Average Price: $10 – $25 CAD
- Pros: Highly durable, mentally stimulating, reduces boredom and anxiety, safe for most chewers.
- Cons: Can be difficult to clean the inside thoroughly, some dogs may lose interest if not filled with engaging treats.
-
- Key Features: Unique chewy texture to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, freshens breath, highly digestible, various sizes for different dog breeds.
- Average Price: $20 – $50 CAD (depending on pack size)
- Pros: V.E.T. Dental Seal of Acceptance, effective for dental hygiene, dogs generally love the taste.
- Cons: Can be high in calories, some pets may have sensitivities to ingredients, not a substitute for professional dental care.
-
Simple Solution Extreme Pet Stain and Odour Remover
- Key Features: Professional strength enzymatic formula, eliminates tough pet stains and odours, safe for carpets, upholstery, and hard floors.
- Average Price: $15 – $30 CAD
- Pros: Highly effective on a variety of surfaces, neutralizes odours rather than just masking them, easy to use spray bottle.
- Cons: May require multiple applications for very old or stubborn stains, strong scent initially.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Exploring Vetderm.ca: A Deep Dive into Veterinary Dermatology Services
Based on looking at the website, Vetderm.ca, the online presence for North West Veterinary Dermatology Services Ltd. (NWVDS), presents itself as a dedicated specialty clinic for pet skin and ear conditions. This isn’t just a general vet clinic; it’s a focused referral service, which immediately signals a deeper level of expertise. For pet owners in Western Canada dealing with persistent allergies, itching, or ear issues in their companions, understanding what a specialized service like this offers is crucial. The site emphasizes their board-certified veterinary dermatologists, a key indicator of high-level training and qualification.
Vetderm.ca Review & First Look
A first glance at Vetderm.ca reveals a professional, clean, and informative website designed to reassure and educate potential clients. The homepage prominently features their core mission: “Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologists specialized in itch relief.” This immediately sets the expectation of specialized care. The site does a good job of presenting essential contact information—phone and email—right at the top, along with a tempting “New patients receive 15% OFF your first visit” offer.
- Professional Design: The layout is intuitive, making it easy to find key sections like services, appointment booking, and online forms.
- Clear Value Proposition: Their specialization in dermatology is front and centre, which helps pet owners quickly determine if NWVDS is the right fit for their needs.
- Initial Trust Indicators: The direct mention of “Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologists” and the listing of specific doctors (Dr. Tyler Udenberg, Dr. Vincent Defalque, Dr. Jay Korbelik, Dr. Allison Cox) with their DACVD® credentials builds immediate trust. The DACVD® credential, indicating a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology, signifies rigorous training and successful completion of a demanding certification exam. This is a vital piece of information for pet owners seeking expert care.
- Geographic Reach: The site clearly states their physical locations in Vancouver, Victoria, St. Albert, Surrey, and Kelowna, serving pet parents and referring veterinarians across Western Canada. This transparency about physical presence is a significant trust factor.
Vetderm.ca Services: Comprehensive Care for Skin & Ears
Vetderm.ca outlines a comprehensive range of services dedicated to animal dermatological health. Their focus on diagnosing and managing complex skin and ear conditions goes beyond general veterinary practice, offering a specialized approach for persistent or challenging issues. This specialization is particularly valuable when pets suffer from chronic allergies, recurring ear infections, or mysterious skin lesions that haven’t responded to conventional treatments.
- Allergy Management: A major focus, encompassing diagnosis through methods like intradermal skin testing and serum allergy testing, and management strategies including immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops), diet trials, and medication.
- Intradermal Skin Testing: This is considered the gold standard for identifying environmental allergens. The procedure involves injecting small amounts of various allergens just under the skin and observing reactions.
- Immunotherapy: Often referred to as allergy vaccines, this treatment aims to desensitize the pet’s immune system to specific allergens identified through testing, leading to a long-term solution for allergies rather than just managing symptoms.
- Ear Diseases (Otology): Addressing chronic or recurrent ear infections, which often have underlying allergic or systemic causes. Services include advanced diagnostics like video otoscopy and ear flushing, as well as medical and surgical management.
- Video Otoscopy: A specialized tool that allows veterinarians to visualize the ear canal on a monitor, providing a detailed view of the ear drum and any abnormalities, aiding in precise diagnosis and treatment.
- Autoimmune and Hormonal Skin Diseases: Diagnosis and management of complex conditions that require specialized knowledge beyond general practice.
- Biopsies and Histopathology: Taking tissue samples for microscopic examination to accurately diagnose complex skin conditions, including autoimmune disorders and certain cancers.
- Palliative Care: For chronic, incurable conditions, offering solutions to improve the pet’s quality of life.
- Specialized Treatments: This includes therapies like laser therapy for various skin conditions, which is mentioned in one of their newsletter articles. Laser therapy can be used for pain management, inflammation reduction, and accelerated healing.
Vetderm.ca Pros & Cons
Like any specialized service, Vetderm.ca has its strengths and minor areas where more information could be helpful. Understanding these aspects allows pet owners to make an informed decision about whether NWVDS is the right fit for their pet’s dermatological needs.
Pros:
- Board-Certified Specialists: This is the biggest advantage. The presence of DACVD® (Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology) professionals ensures a high level of expertise, training, and experience specifically in animal skin and ear conditions. According to the American College of Veterinary Dermatology, becoming board-certified requires extensive post-doctoral training, a rigorous residency, a research project, and successful completion of a comprehensive examination.
- Referral-Only Model: While it might seem like an extra step, a referral-only model often means that patients coming to NWVDS have already been assessed by their primary veterinarian, allowing the specialists to focus immediately on advanced diagnostics and treatment plans. This streamlined approach can lead to more efficient and effective care for complex cases.
- Multiple Locations: Having clinics in Vancouver, Victoria, St. Albert, Surrey, and Kelowna makes specialized care more accessible to a wider geographic area across Western Canada, reducing travel burden for many pet owners.
- Online Resources: The website offers online forms, making the intake process more convenient, and a robust “Veterinary Topics” section (blog/articles) that provides valuable information on various pet health concerns. This commitment to client education is a strong positive.
- Positive Testimonials: The website prominently features positive feedback from satisfied pet owners, detailing their experiences with the staff and doctors. These real-world accounts add credibility and reassurance.
- Clear Mission: The focus on “itch relief, allergy management and ear diseases” is very specific, allowing pet owners to understand exactly what kind of expertise they can expect.
Cons:
- No Publicly Available Pricing: While common for specialized medical services, the absence of even estimated pricing on the website means pet owners must call or inquire to understand the potential cost of consultations, diagnostics, and treatments. This can be a barrier for some when initially budgeting for care.
- Referral Required: For pet owners not already familiar with specialist care, the “referral-only” model might be an unexpected step. It means they can’t just call up and book an appointment without first consulting their primary veterinarian.
- Limited Immediate Availability Information: While an “exclusive offer” is mentioned, there isn’t a direct online calendar or real-time availability checker for appointments. Pet owners need to make a phone call to schedule, which might be a slight inconvenience in a digital age.
- No Hours of Operation Listed: The homepage notes “No Hours settings found. Please configure it.” This is a minor but significant omission, as pet owners need to know when the clinics are open to call or visit.
Vetderm.ca Alternatives
When a pet requires specialized dermatological care, or if a primary veterinarian isn’t fully equipped to handle complex skin conditions, exploring alternatives can be crucial. While Vetderm.ca offers specialized services, understanding other options can help pet owners find the best fit for their needs, location, and budget. These alternatives might include other veterinary specialty clinics, general practices with a strong interest in dermatology, or even leveraging online resources for initial information and guidance.
- Other Veterinary Dermatology Specialty Clinics in Canada:
- Toronto Veterinary Dermatology: Located in Toronto, Ontario, this is another well-regarded specialist clinic focusing on veterinary dermatology. Similar to Vetderm.ca, they offer advanced diagnostics and treatments for chronic skin and ear conditions. They serve a different geographic region but provide comparable specialized care.
- Montreal Veterinary Dermatology Centre: Serving the Quebec region, this centre also focuses exclusively on veterinary dermatology. It’s important to research specific clinics in your area as Canada has a growing number of specialized veterinary practices.
- University Veterinary Teaching Hospitals:
- Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) Health Sciences Centre at the University of Guelph, Ontario: University teaching hospitals often have large dermatology departments with multiple board-certified specialists, residents, and cutting-edge research. They are excellent for complex and challenging cases and often offer advanced diagnostic tools and therapies.
- Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) Veterinary Medical Centre at the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan: Similar to OVC, WCVM provides comprehensive specialty services, including dermatology. These institutions are training grounds for future veterinarians and specialists, ensuring a high standard of care often backed by research.
- Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec.
- Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) Teaching Hospital at the University of Prince Edward Island.
- General Practice Veterinarians with a Strong Interest in Dermatology:
- While not board-certified specialists, many general practice veterinarians have developed a strong interest and extensive experience in treating dermatological conditions. They may attend specialized continuing education courses and invest in diagnostic equipment relevant to skin and ear issues.
- How to find them: Ask your primary veterinarian for recommendations, or search online for general practices that highlight dermatology as a special interest. They can often handle less complex cases effectively and provide initial workups before a referral is necessary.
- Online Veterinary Consultations (Telemedicine):
- Platforms like TeleVet or local clinics offering virtual appointments can provide initial consultations for pet skin issues. While they cannot perform physical examinations or advanced diagnostics, they can offer advice, guide initial steps, and help determine if an in-person specialist visit is needed.
- Pros: Convenience, quick access to advice, potentially lower initial cost.
- Cons: Limitations on diagnosis and treatment without a physical exam, not suitable for emergencies.
- Pet Insurance Providers:
- While not a direct alternative service, having pet insurance can make specialized care more financially accessible. Companies like Pets Plus Us or Trupanion offer plans that can cover a significant portion of specialist veterinary bills, including those for dermatological conditions.
- Pros: Reduces financial burden, allows pet owners to choose the best care without significant cost constraints.
- Cons: Requires upfront payment and reimbursement, waiting periods may apply, premiums can vary.
Understanding the Role of a Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologist
The core of Vetderm.ca’s service lies in its team of Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologists. This isn’t just a fancy title; it signifies a rigorous path of education and specialized training that sets these veterinarians apart. According to the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD), the certifying body for veterinary dermatologists, the journey to becoming a diplomate is extensive and highly demanding, ensuring a deep level of expertise in diagnosing and managing complex skin and ear conditions in animals.
- Years of Advanced Training: After earning a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, which is typically a four-year program following an undergraduate degree, a veterinarian seeking board certification in dermatology must complete:
- A one-year internship: This provides broad clinical experience across various veterinary specialties.
- A three-year residency program: This highly intensive period is dedicated specifically to veterinary dermatology. During this time, residents work under the direct supervision of existing board-certified dermatologists, gaining hands-on experience with hundreds of diverse and challenging skin and ear cases.
- Rigorous Academic and Research Requirements:
- Extensive Study Program: Residents engage in a deep dive into dermatological literature, pathophysiology, diagnostics, and therapeutics. This involves mastering a vast body of knowledge specific to animal skin and ear diseases.
- Scientific Research Project: A crucial component is the completion of a publishable research project. This contributes new knowledge to the field of veterinary dermatology and demonstrates the resident’s ability to conduct scientific inquiry.
- Publications: Residents are often required to publish articles in peer-reviewed veterinary journals, further solidifying their contribution to the scientific community.
- Comprehensive Certifying Exam: The final hurdle is passing a challenging multi-day certifying examination administered by the ACVD. This exam covers all aspects of veterinary dermatology, testing both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Only upon successful completion does a veterinarian earn the title of “Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology” (DACVD®).
This stringent process ensures that a DACVD® is not just a general practitioner with an interest in skin but a true expert who has dedicated years to mastering this specific branch of veterinary medicine. For pet owners, this means access to the highest level of care for conditions that might baffle general veterinarians.
The Appointment Process and Online Forms at Vetderm.ca
Vetderm.ca makes the process of seeking specialized care as streamlined as possible, particularly through their well-organized appointment system and the availability of online forms. Understanding how this process works can help pet owners prepare for their visit and ensure a smooth experience for both them and their furry companions. The “referral-only” aspect is key here, as it ensures that pets arriving at NWVDS have already undergone an initial assessment by their primary veterinarian. Chronicpost.ca Review
- Referral Requirement: As a specialty clinic, Vetderm.ca operates on a referral basis. This means your primary veterinarian will need to initiate the process by referring your pet to NWVDS. This ensures that the specialists receive comprehensive background information on your pet’s medical history and current condition, allowing them to provide the most targeted and efficient care. Your primary vet will typically send over relevant medical records, diagnostic results, and a referral letter.
- Making an Appointment: The website encourages prospective clients to “Make An Appointment” and states, “We will do our best to accommodate your busy schedule. Schedule an appointment today!” This is done by contacting them directly via phone (604-428-0070) or email ([email protected]). While there isn’t an online booking portal for direct scheduling, the personal interaction can ensure all necessary details are covered.
- Online Forms for Convenience: One of the significant advantages highlighted on Vetderm.ca is the availability of “Online Forms.” This allows pet owners to complete necessary patient information, medical history, and consent forms from the comfort of their home or office before their appointment.
- Benefits of Online Forms:
- Saves Time: Reduces administrative time spent at the clinic, allowing more focus on your pet’s consultation.
- Reduces Stress: You can fill out detailed information without feeling rushed in a clinic setting.
- Accuracy: Allows you to gather all necessary information (medication names, dates of past treatments, etc.) at your leisure.
- Efficiency: The clinic receives necessary information in advance, enabling them to prepare for your pet’s specific case.
- Typical Forms: These often include:
- New Patient Registration Form
- Dermatology History Questionnaire (detailed questions about skin issues, diet, environment, previous treatments)
- Consent Forms for procedures or diagnostics
- Benefits of Online Forms:
- What to Expect at the First Visit: Once the appointment is scheduled and forms are submitted, the first visit will typically involve:
- A thorough physical examination focused on the dermatological condition.
- Detailed discussion of your pet’s history and symptoms.
- Potentially immediate in-clinic diagnostic tests (e.g., skin scrapings, cytology, fungal cultures).
- Development of an initial diagnostic and treatment plan.
The emphasis on online forms and the referral system collectively aims to create a smooth, efficient, and well-prepared environment for specialized pet care at Vetderm.ca.
Vetderm.ca Pricing
When considering specialized veterinary care, understanding the financial aspect is often a key concern for pet owners. Based on the Vetderm.ca website, specific pricing for services is not publicly listed. This approach is common among specialized medical practices, human or animal, for several reasons, but it does mean that prospective clients will need to take an additional step to get cost estimates.
- Reasons for Non-Disclosure of Prices:
- Variability of Cases: Dermatological issues in pets can range from simple, easily diagnosable conditions to complex, chronic diseases requiring extensive diagnostics and long-term management. Providing a single price list would be misleading, as each case is highly individualized.
- Customized Treatment Plans: The cost depends heavily on the specific diagnostic tests required (e.g., blood work, skin biopsies, allergy testing), the chosen treatment modalities (e.g., medications, immunotherapy, laser therapy), and the number of follow-up visits. A “one-size-fits-all” price is simply not feasible.
- Consultation-Dependent Costs: Often, the initial consultation itself is a fixed fee, but all subsequent diagnostics and treatments are additional. These will only be determined after the veterinarian has assessed the pet and discussed the potential pathways with the owner.
- Insurance and Payment Plans: Many specialized clinics work with pet insurance providers or offer payment options, which can alter the effective out-of-pocket cost for pet owners.
- How to Obtain Pricing Information:
- Direct Inquiry: The most straightforward way to get an idea of costs is to call Vetderm.ca directly at 604-428-0070 or email them at [email protected] You can inquire about the cost of an initial consultation and ask for a general range of prices for common diagnostics or treatments if you have an idea of what your pet might need.
- Discuss with Your Referring Veterinarian: Your primary vet, who is referring you to Vetderm.ca, might have an estimate of the typical costs associated with specialist consultations or specific tests. They can provide a general idea based on their experience with referrals.
- Initial Consultation as a First Step: Often, the initial consultation fee covers the specialist’s time to assess your pet, review their history, and outline a diagnostic and treatment plan. At this stage, the dermatologist will typically provide a detailed estimate for the recommended procedures and treatments, allowing you to make informed financial decisions.
- Consider Pet Insurance: For managing the costs of specialized veterinary care, especially for chronic conditions like allergies, pet insurance can be a valuable tool. Policies from providers like Pets Plus Us or Trupanion can cover a significant percentage of specialist fees, diagnostic tests, and ongoing treatments. It’s advisable to look into pet insurance before a major health issue arises, as most policies have waiting periods for pre-existing conditions.
While the lack of explicit pricing on the website might require an extra step, it’s a standard practice in veterinary specialty medicine. The focus remains on providing tailored, high-quality care, with costs determined by the individual needs of each patient.
Vetderm.ca vs. General Practice Veterinarians
The distinction between Vetderm.ca and a general practice veterinarian is crucial for pet owners seeking the most appropriate care for their animal companions, especially when dealing with persistent or complex health issues. While general practitioners are the frontline for routine care, specialists like those at Vetderm.ca offer a deeper level of expertise and resources in a specific area—in this case, veterinary dermatology.
- Scope of Practice:
- General Practice Veterinarian: These are your primary care providers for pets. They handle a wide range of services, including:
- Routine vaccinations and preventative care
- Annual check-ups and wellness exams
- Diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses and injuries (e.g., ear infections, minor skin issues, gastrointestinal upset)
- Spaying/neutering and routine surgeries
- Dental cleanings
- Emergency care (initial stabilization)
- Nutritional advice and behavioural counseling
- Think of them as your family doctor for your pet. They have a broad understanding across many systems but may refer out for conditions that require specialized attention.
- Vetderm.ca (Veterinary Dermatologist Specialist): These are veterinarians who have undergone extensive additional training and board certification in dermatology. Their practice is narrowly focused but deeply specialized. They handle:
- Complex or Chronic Skin Diseases: Such as severe allergies (atopic dermatitis, food allergies), autoimmune skin conditions, persistent itching, unusual skin lesions, and recurring skin infections.
- Advanced Diagnostics: They utilize specialized tests like intradermal allergy testing, advanced skin biopsies, video otoscopy for deep ear evaluations, and specific blood tests for dermatological conditions that general vets might not perform.
- Specialized Treatments: This includes immunotherapy (allergy shots/drops), advanced medical management of autoimmune diseases, complex ear disease management, and often access to therapies like therapeutic laser.
- Referral-Based Care: Specialists typically receive patients who have already been evaluated by their primary vet, ensuring that simpler issues are addressed first and complex cases get the dedicated attention they need.
- General Practice Veterinarian: These are your primary care providers for pets. They handle a wide range of services, including:
- Expertise and Training:
- General Practice: Graduates of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program, with broad training in all aspects of veterinary medicine. They continually update their knowledge through continuing education.
- Vetderm.ca (Board-Certified Specialist): In addition to a DVM, these veterinarians have completed a demanding 3-year residency and passed a rigorous board examination by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD). This level of training means they have seen and managed hundreds of the most challenging dermatological cases, providing an unparalleled depth of knowledge in this field.
- Equipment and Resources:
- General Practice: Equipped for common diagnostic tests (e.g., basic skin scrapings, basic blood work), imaging (X-rays), and general surgical procedures.
- Vetderm.ca: Will have highly specialized equipment for dermatological diagnostics and treatments, such as advanced microscopes for cytology, video otoscopes, and potentially specific laser therapy units, which are often not found in a general practice.
- When to Choose Which:
- Start with your General Practice Vet: For any new skin rash, itch, or ear issue, your general veterinarian should always be your first point of contact. They can diagnose and treat many common conditions effectively.
- Consider Vetderm.ca (Specialist) When:
- Your pet’s condition is chronic or recurrent and isn’t responding to conventional treatments from your general vet.
- The diagnosis is unclear, despite initial investigations.
- The condition is severe or significantly impacting your pet’s quality of life.
- Your general vet explicitly recommends a referral to a specialist.
In essence, Vetderm.ca complements the services of general practice veterinarians by providing an advanced level of expertise for specific, complex dermatological challenges, ensuring pets receive the most targeted and effective care possible.
FAQ
What is Vetderm.ca?
Vetderm.ca is the online presence for North West Veterinary Dermatology Services Ltd. (NWVDS), a privately-owned referral-only veterinary dermatology specialty company serving Western Canada. They specialize in diagnosing and managing skin and ear diseases in pets.
Is Vetderm.ca a legitimate veterinary clinic?
Yes, based on the website, Vetderm.ca appears to be a legitimate and professional veterinary specialty clinic. They clearly list their board-certified dermatologists, physical locations, and services.
What kind of services does Vetderm.ca offer?
Vetderm.ca specializes in veterinary dermatology, offering services such as itch relief, allergy management (including allergy testing and immunotherapy), treatment for ear diseases, autoimmune skin conditions, and various other complex skin issues in animals.
What does “Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologist” mean?
A Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologist is a veterinarian who has completed extensive post-doctoral training, including a one-year internship and a three-year residency specifically in veterinary dermatology, and has successfully passed a rigorous certifying examination by the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD).
Do I need a referral to visit Vetderm.ca?
Yes, Vetderm.ca operates on a referral-only basis. Your primary veterinarian will need to refer your pet to their specialists for an appointment. Canadahelpline.ca Review
How do I make an appointment with Vetderm.ca?
You can make an appointment by contacting Vetderm.ca directly via phone at 604-428-0070 or by email at [email protected]
Are there Vetderm.ca clinics outside of British Columbia?
Yes, in addition to locations in Vancouver, Victoria, Surrey, and Kelowna in British Columbia, Vetderm.ca also has a clinic in St. Albert, Alberta.
Does Vetderm.ca offer services for all types of pets?
Vetderm.ca accepts new canine and feline patients at most locations, while equine patients are seen in Surrey and Aldergrove, BC.
Does Vetderm.ca have online forms for new patients?
Yes, Vetderm.ca provides online forms that new patients can complete at home or in their office to streamline the intake process before their appointment.
Is pricing information available on the Vetderm.ca website?
No, specific pricing for services is not publicly listed on the Vetderm.ca website. You would need to contact them directly for cost estimates.
What is the “Exclusive Offer” mentioned on Vetderm.ca?
The website mentions that new patients receive 15% off their first visit.
How does Vetderm.ca treat pet allergies?
Vetderm.ca diagnoses allergies using methods like intradermal skin testing and serum allergy testing, and they manage allergies with strategies including immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops), diet trials, and medication.
What is immunotherapy for pets?
Immunotherapy, often called allergy vaccines, is a long-term treatment that aims to desensitize a pet’s immune system to specific allergens, reducing their allergic reactions over time.
Does Vetderm.ca treat chronic ear infections in pets?
Yes, chronic or recurrent ear infections are a significant focus for Vetderm.ca, often involving advanced diagnostics like video otoscopy and comprehensive medical or surgical management.
Can I find articles or pet health information on Vetderm.ca?
Yes, Vetderm.ca has a “Veterinary Topics” section, which appears to be a blog or articles section, providing valuable information on various pet health concerns. Gorecon.ca Review
Are there testimonials from other pet owners on Vetderm.ca?
Yes, the website features testimonials from happy pet owners who have used their services, sharing their positive experiences.
What kind of research do Veterinary Dermatologists conduct?
Board Certified Veterinary Dermatologists are required to conduct a scientific, publishable research project as part of their residency, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of veterinary dermatology.
Does Vetderm.ca handle pet emergencies?
While they are a specialty clinic, the homepage mentions an article titled “Signs of a Pet Emergency and What to Do,” suggesting they may provide guidance, but for immediate emergencies, a general emergency veterinary clinic is usually the first point of contact.
How does Vetderm.ca differ from a general veterinarian?
A general veterinarian provides broad primary care, whereas Vetderm.ca’s dermatologists are specialists with extensive, focused training and resources specifically for complex or chronic skin and ear conditions that general vets might refer out.
What should I do if my pet has a persistent skin issue?
Your first step should be to consult your primary veterinarian. If the issue is complex or doesn’t respond to initial treatment, your vet may recommend a referral to a specialist like those at Vetderm.ca.
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