In most cases, yes. We work closely with your regular vet and will usually have received your pet’s history before your appointment. If you are unsure, just contact us and we can advise.

Many of our clients travel to see us and do not live locally. We aim to make the most of your consultation time to reduce the need for repeat visits where possible.

Occasional revisits may still be required depending on your pet’s condition.

We use WhatsApp as one of our main methods of follow-up, which allows us to monitor your pet’s progress and adjust treatment plans to minimise the need for frequent in-person visits.

We do not offer remote (online) consultations for first appointments.

This is in line with Veterinary Council of Ireland guidelines, and also because it is essential for us to examine your pet and take samples from the skin and ears to make an accurate diagnosis.

We do, however, facilitate remote follow-up once your pet has been seen, with WhatsApp being our preferred method of communication.

Please complete and submit your patient history form in advance. The information you provide is very important and helps us make the most of your consultation.

In most cases, continue all medications as normal. However, if we specifically need to assess your pet without medication, we will advise you in advance. If unsure, please ask before your appointment.

Waiting times for a first consultation are typically 2–4 weeks. Occasionally, earlier appointments may become available due to cancellations.

We understand how worrying this can be when your pet is uncomfortable.

If you are concerned, please ask your GP vet to contact Skinvet. We are happy to liaise with them and advise on how best to manage your pet in the meantime while you are waiting for your appointment.

Please bring:
– Your pet!
– Any current medications (including creams, ear drops, supplements)
– Treats — we have plenty available, but please bring your own if your pet is on a special diet or is a fussy eater

It is important that the person who is mainly responsible for your pet’s care at home attends the consultation.

Due to time constraints, it is not possible for the vet to repeat the consultation with another person by phone afterwards.

Allow one hour for your first consultation.

Yes, unless you have been advised otherwise.
If a procedure or sedation may be required, we will let you know in advance if fasting is needed.

Your pet will have a thorough skin and ear examination.
We will usually take samples from the skin, coat, paws, and ears to examine under the microscope during the consultation. You may be asked to help hold your pet for this.
These tests are quick, minimally invasive, and help guide immediate treatment decisions.

Sometimes further tests (such as blood tests, allergy testing, or biopsies) may be recommended.
If so, all options and costs will be discussed with you before proceeding.

We understand that some pets find vet visits stressful, and we are very used to working with nervous patients. We are patient and always aim to make the visit as calm and stress-free as possible.

Some pets benefit from anti-anxiety medication before their appointment. If you think this may help your pet, please let us know in advance and we can liaise with your regular vet to arrange this.

If your pet does not like other dogs, please let us know ahead of time. We can schedule your appointment at quieter times (such as first or last of the day) and ensure your pet does not have to meet other dogs in the clinic.

Yes. You will receive a clear treatment plan and instructions following your consultation.

Most skin conditions are chronic and require ongoing management rather than a one-off cure. Our aim is to get your pet comfortable and establish a long-term, manageable plan.

We will usually check in with you via WhatsApp after your appointment to monitor your pet’s condition.

Some pets will remain under our care on a long-term basis, while others can be discharged back to your regular vet for ongoing care.

Recheck appointments may also be required depending on your pet’s condition and progress.

For pets on prescription-only medications, we are required to examine them at least once yearly in order to continue prescribing safely.

Yes, you are very welcome to contact us at any time if you have concerns about your pet’s skin.

We will do our best to address your concerns remotely where possible. However, a recheck appointment may sometimes be needed.

Many skin conditions are chronic and require ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment plans.

A first consultation costs €160 and is a one-hour appointment. This includes a full dermatology consultation, examination, skin and ear sampling, microscopic analysis, and a treatment plan.

A recheck (second consultation) costs €80 and is a 45-minute appointment. This includes reassessment, repeat sampling if needed, and an updated treatment plan.

Additional costs may include further tests (such as blood tests, allergy testing, or biopsies) and any medications or treatments prescribed for your pet.

All additional costs will always be discussed with you in advance and authorised by you before proceeding.

All goods and services must be paid for in full on the day of the consultation or procedure.

We do not offer credit or payment plans.

Payment can be made by cash or credit/debit card. Cheques are not accepted.

You will receive a full receipt at the time of payment.

Yes. If your pet is insured, we can:
– Provide you with all the information needed to submit a claim yourself, or
– Submit the claim on your behalf for a small administration fee

Please note that we are unable to facilitate direct claims, so payment must still be made in full on the day.