The most appropriate person to oversee the care of your animal is always your usual veterinary surgeon. They will be familiar with the patient's medical history, and regardless of the recommended course of action, will be best placed to monitor the results of treatment.
 

However, as in human medicine, some veterinary surgeons decide to specialise in certain areas of care, such as dermatology.
 

In some cases, your vet may decide to refer your pet to such a specialist for advanced treatment or a second opinion. There are three levels of specialism in this field, which are detailed below.
 

Feel free to discuss the option of a second opinon or a referral with your veterinary surgeon.

This is the first level of qualification. It shows that the holder is a competent clinician who has proved his or her experience and expertise in dermatology by examination. They will have needed to show at least 2 years experience during which at least 10% of their work will have involved the treatment of dermatology cases. Look for the letters Cert SAD (Small Animal Dermatology) or Cert VD (Veterinary Dermatology) after your vet's name.

This is the second level of qualification. It shows that the holder has previously gained the related Certificate and devoted their whole time to the study and practice of veterinary dermatology in order to gain the substantial experience required. The holder has shown their experience and expertise by examination in Veterinary Dermatology. The letters DVD after your vet's name denote this qualification.

RCVS Recognised Specialist status is not easily achieved. Diploma holders must satisfy the RCVS that they make an active contribution to their specialty, have national and international acclaim and publish widely in their field. A Recognised Specialist must also be available for referral by other veterinary colleagues. They must re-apply every 5 years to maintain their name on the list.
 

Further information about veterinarians holding advanced qualifications is available from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons website: www.rcvs.org.uk.