New Client Information

Welcome

Thank you for choosing VADER Clinic for your pet’s dermatologic care. We look forward to meeting you and working together to help your pet feel their best.

Why We Require a Referral

A referral from your primary care veterinarian helps us provide the most complete and effective care. Your veterinarian knows your pet’s history and can share essential background information, previous treatments, and test results. This ensures we avoid repeating diagnostics unnecessarily and allows us to build on what has already been tried.

Why We Take a Deposit

We reserve a dedicated time slot with our veterinary dermatologist for each new consultation. Because there are only a small number of board-certified veterinary dermatologists in Ontario, these appointments are in high demand. A deposit is required to hold your appointment and will be applied toward the cost of your visit. This helps reduce no-show appointments and ensures availability for pets who need timely care.

Deposits are fully refunded if you cancel or reschedule with at least 2 business days’ notice before your scheduled appointment.

For scheduled surgery procedures, we require at least 5 business days’ notice for a full refund of your deposit.

What to Expect at Your Pet’s First Appointment

Your pet’s initial visit will include:

  • A detailed review of your pet’s medical history and any previous treatments.

  • A thorough dermatologic examination.

  • Discussion of diagnostic options, such as cytology, skin scrapings, or allergy testing if recommended.

  • A treatment plan tailored to your pet’s individual needs.

For more details, please watch the videos below.

Preparing for Your Pet’s First Appointment

To help us get the most accurate information and ensure your pet’s comfort, please follow these guidelines:

  • If not part of the current treatment protocol from your family veterinarian, do not bathe your pet or clean their ears for at least 5 days before the appointment. This helps us evaluate their skin and ears properly.

  • Please continue any prescribed oral medications up until the consultation as directed by your family veterinarian, as your pet’s comfort remains our priority.

  • Withhold food for at least 6 hours before the appointment. Water is fine. This precaution is in case sedation is needed during your visit. If your pet has a medical condition that prevents fasting, please contact us in advance so we can provide guidance.

  • If your family veterinarian has prescribed any pre-visit medications for anxiety or stress, please administer them as directed.

  • Bring all current medications and treatments (including shampoos, ear cleaners, and supplements) to your appointment.

  • If you have concerns about your pet’s skin or ears before your scheduled visit, please contact your primary care veterinarian. Because we have not examined your pet yet, we are unable to provide treatment recommendations until the consultation.

If you have any questions about how to prepare or what to bring, please contact our team.

Still have questions? Check out our Frequently Asked Question page for helpful answers about common concerns and what to expect throughout your pet’s care.

To learn more about our clinic philosophy and shared commitment to respectful care, please visit our Promise & Code of Conduct page.