Several studies show that pruritus is the number one reason a client brings their dog to the veterinarian. Allergic skin diseases are common problems in canine patients, and many of the clinical presentations are similar which can make these cases frustrating. This lecture will focus on the allergic workup, acute treatment of pruritus, and client communication. 

 

How to conquer the itchy cat

Different categories of feline allergies can be difficult to differentiate from one another.  Understanding the different patterns of cutaneous lesions, response to treatment, and management of secondary issues is important for control.This lecture will present how to differentiate and perform a diagnostic workup for flea, food, and environmental allergies in cats.  

Diagnosing otitis the right way

Managing difficult otitis externa cases in cats and dogs can be challenging, chronic, and frustrating. This lecture will discuss a complete approach to the diagnostic workup of otitis externa including cytology, culture and sensitivity, handheld otoscopy, and video otoscopy.

From ear drops to pills: how to effectively treat otitis externa and media

Choosing appropriate ear cleansers and initial therapeutics can be imperative in defeating micro-organisms. However, systemic therapy can also be used to help alleviate discomfort and treat infection in complicated cases. This is especially true when disease extends deeper than the external ear canal. This lecture will address how to assess the best treatment plan for every type of otitis case from a simple yeast otitis to a resistant otitis media.

Don’t fear the smear (basics of cytology)

Cytology is one of the most important diagnostic tools in dermatology.  A quick, inexpensive test that can be essential in diagnosing and managing various skin diseases.  This lecture will discuss what different findings of cells, organisms and structures may indicate.  Also, techniques for collecting and interpreting cytologies from different anatomical sites will be discussed.