Services

Dermatology

The dermatology service is led by an RCVS and EBVS® European Specialist in Veterinary Dermatology and accepts referrals in all aspects of dermatology including all skin, hair, ear and paw/claw diseases.

Our combination of expertise, experience and technology enables us to achieve rapid and accurate diagnoses, essential for selecting the most appropriate therapy. The dermatology service benefits from collaboration with the diagnostic imaging and internal medicine services to address potential underlying causes of more complex dermatology cases. Access to specialists in soft tissue surgery allows for the surgical management of appropriate cases such as excessive skin folds and some ear disease.

Common problems referred to us include:

pruritus
alopecia
nodules
pustules
scaling
ulcers
chronic otitis
claw/nail disease
antibiotic resistant infections

We diagnose and treat a wide range of diseases including:

Acral Lick Dermatitis - This can be very frustrating to manage and is often complicated by secondary bacterial infection. Identifying the underlying cause is necessary before implementing any therapeutic strategy.
Alopecia - This is a common clinical presentation of many dermatological diseases. It is important to eliminate pruritic causes of hair loss before carrying out further diagnostic investigations.
Anal Furunculosis - A chronic progressive disease of the peri-anal tissues, this frequently affects middle-aged to older German Shepherd dogs. Immunosuppressive medical therapy is often helpful in controlling clinical signs.
Immune-mediated/Autoimmune Diseases - Diagnosis of these diseases is complex and challenging and may necessitate biopsy and specialist histological examinations.
Pododermatitis and claw disorders - These are frequent manifestations of underlying conditions. In addition to a thorough examination, biopsies or cytology may be necessary for diagnosis.
Chronic Ear Diseases - Patients require investigation for evidence of allergic or endocrine disease. Video-otoscopy and/or MRI/CT scans may be needed to evaluate any involvement of the middle or inner ears.
Ectoparasitoses and Infectious Diseases - We carry out fungal cultures and microbiological testing as well as serological testing for parasitic diseases.
Endocrine Diseases - Hyperadrenocorticism and hypothyroidism are common examples. We utilise hormonal assays and tests such as MRI for diagnosis.
Intertriginous Diseases - These develop at sites where frictional contact allows accumulation of secretions that promote secondary pyoderma. If the underlying aetiology is addressed, many cases can be managed medically although some may need surgical intervention.

Refer Here

Testimonials

What our clients say:

    
 
 
        
   Alastair Kerr 
 26 May 2024
 
 
  The best place for great care for you pet.
  
 
       
   karen hamilton 
 21 May 2024
 
 
  Our bernese mountain dog Merlin had issues with his gait and after physio exams and xrays from our own vet we were recommended to get an MRI. We decided to take him to Livingston rather than Glasgow based on reviews and we were not disappointed! The service and professionalism shown to us by all staff and especially Alexandra was unbelievable.  She explained everything in layman terms for us so that we could fully understand what was happening with our boy. We arrived so anxious and we left with a full diagnosis and we can now get on with enjoying our boy. Thankyou so much to everyone 💓
  
 
       
   fiona mccormack 
 11 May 2024
 
 
  My dog was referred here by my vet after all other options had been covered. They were amazing and really looked after Buster. Sadly it wasn’t the outcome we wanted but I can’t fault anything about his treatment and the way the staff dealt with us through an incredibly difficult time. We were kept fully informed at all times and everything as very sensitively handled.
  
 
       
   Gayle Mcdowell 
 25 April 2024
 
 
  All the staff are great and take fantastic care of my dog
  
 
       
   Wendy Busby 
 16 April 2024
 
 
  Our beloved dog Dougal was referred to VSS recently in a very poorly state. Tobias, Joni and the wonderful nursing team admitted him for some life saving surgery and critical care.  We would have lost Dougal if it had not been for the skills and care of this team.  The communication was clear and warm, but also was forthright and honest about Dougals chances.  After nearly a week miraculously we got him home. He still needed care in his recovery and after what he went through I cannot quite believe how well he is doing.  The updates from the team were just right, his condition explained each time and progress or risks discussed.  Follow up caring communication has also been second to none. I would still say the same if the outcome had not been favourable, and wholeheartedly recommend the team that work in this incredible veterinary care service.
  
 
       
   Janka Hudak 
 12 April 2024
 
 
  Our journey with Veterinary Specialists Scotland began when our 8-month-old Papillon, Whisky, suffered a severe fracture to her front leg. The referral to Dr. Joni Viitanen and his team was a turning point during this emergency. From the moment we arrived, the response was both professional and deeply compassionate—they admitted Whisky immediately and made sure she was as comfortable as possible.

Dr. Viitanen performed surgery the very next day, and during Whisky’s three-day stay, we felt she was in the best hands. The team was not only exemplary in their medical care but also in providing emotional support, making Whisky’s first time away from home as gentle as possible. They kept us well-informed throughout her treatment, always ready to answer our questions and calm our worries.

The news that Whisky had completely healed after just seven weeks was a profound relief. Every staff member we encountered was incredibly supportive, ensuring that all administrative tasks, including the insurance claim, were handled smoothly.

We are truly grateful to Dr. Viitanen and the entire Orthopaedic Team for their outstanding dedication. Their blend of professional expertise and heartfelt care made all the difference. We highly recommend Veterinary Specialists Scotland to anyone seeking exceptional care for their pets. Thank you for everything you’ve done for Whisky and for us.
  
 
       
   John McKellar 
 22 March 2024
 
 
  Recently took our dog Sparky to these guys and found the experience from reception staff to veterinary professional care brilliant.
  
 
       
   Bill ferguson 
 9 March 2024
 
 
  Very helpful and professional care team,could not fault any of the help we were given.
  
 
       
   Bethany Rutherford 
 5 March 2024
 
 
  My young dog was recently discharged after a long year of treatment at Veterinary Specialists Scotland.
After an injury she required a carpal arthrodesis surgery and through no ones fault seemed to hit every bump in the road in the months to follow.
The care she received was impeccable and Joni her surgeon was fantastic. During a really stressful and upsetting period of being a dog owner Joni was super helpful and patient.
He kept us informed every step of the way. We knew the risks to every surgery and were able to make fully informed decisions about her care. Joni had our full trust and kept us reassured and confident that she would come out the other side with all four legs.
I felt Joni and the team here were fully invested in my dogs recovery and wellbeing. We were kept up to date during her stays and kept in contact with after her discharges post treatment.

I am glad to say that we are now on the other side after such a worrying year and my wee dog is loving being on the road back to her normal life. Thank you so much to everyone at Veterinary Specialist Scotland and a special thanks to Joni I am so grateful!
  
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 51 reviews