How to Refer
Learn about our referral process and what you need to know to keep your clients informed.
Understand the information we require, the resources available, and the next steps after referral.
REFERRAL MENU
When a Referral Might Be Helpful
We understand that skin, ear, and allergy conditions can be persistent and frustrating for both vets and clients. Referrals are welcomed at any stage of a patient’s condition, particularly when cases are complex, persistent, or not responding to standard treatments. Early intervention can improve outcomes, and we welcome you to contact our team if you are unsure whether referral is recommended.
Examples of cases where referral can be beneficial include:
Recurrent or resistant bacterial or fungal infections
Persistent pruritus (itching) or allergic reactions not fully controlled by diet or medication
Cases requiring specialised diagnostics and therapies, such as intradermal allergy testing, immunotherapy, or other advanced treatments
Patients needing advanced management of topical, dietary, or medications for optimal dermatological outcomes.
Other cases that often benefit from dermatologist evaluation include diagnostically challenging conditions, suspected immune‑mediated or selected neoplastic skin diseases (enquires welcome), chronic ear disease, or patients who may require advanced treatments such as CO₂ laser therapy or specialised ear procedures.
Our Referral Process
Required Information
To help us prepare for the initial consultation and ensure a smooth referral experience for your client, we generally require:
- Referring Vet and Clinic details, including contact information
Patient details including signalment and presenting concerns
Relevant medical history, including previous and current treatments
Recent laboratory results or diagnostics related to the dermatological condition
Any clinical notes you feel are relevant to the referral.
A copy of the patient’s medical history and relevant results can be emailed to our team prior to the appointment.
Available Resources
A range of resources are available to assist with the referral process and help you prepare your client for their initial consultation, including:
An online Clinical Summary Form for streamlined referrals
Referral packs and supporting information for client handouts, with PDF versions also available
Comprehensive online resources outlining the initial consultation, our services, and other helpful information
- Convenient booking options for your clients, including online booking via our portal or by phone.
Contact our team via email, phone, or online form for any questions prior to referral.
What Happens Next
We manage the referral process to ensure a smooth experience for both you and your client.
Appointments are booked directly with the client
We check that all required information has been provided and contact your clinic if anything is missing
We review the patient’s history and supporting information before the appointment
The patient is assessed, and an evidence-based plan is developed to guide diagnosis and treatment.
After the appointment, a clinic summary report and relevant results are provided to the referring clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to send an official referral letter?
No. An official referral letter is not required.
We do require a copy of the patient’s medical history and relevant results (such as labs or diagnostics) to be emailed to our team prior to the initial consultation. See the 'Required Information' section above for details on what is most helpful.
Can my client book an appointment without a formal referral?
Clients may contact our team directly to enquire or book an appointment. We strongly encourage referral and the provision of relevant clinical history to support optimal care.
If a client books directly, we will request consent to contact the primary care veterinarian and obtain medical records. We are committed to collaborative care and will keep the referring or primary care clinic informed before and after the consultation, unless the client requests otherwise.
Can I make an appointment on behalf of my client?
While we welcome referrals from your clinic, appointments are booked directly with the client.
Booking directly allows us to answer questions about our consultation process, confirm preparation requirements, and coordinate follow-up visits. Revisit appointments are planned based on case complexity and patient needs as ongoing management progresses.
Do I need to stop my clients medication prior to the patient’s dermatology consultation?
Patients can be seen regardless of what medications they are currently on, even if their condition is well controlled.
However, if your client is planning to pursue intradermal allergy testing, this can only occur after withdrawal from antihistamines and corticosteroids. Patient wellbeing is always prioritised, and allergy testing can be performed at a subsequent visit if needed.
Please contact our team if you’d like to discuss specific withdrawal times or plan for testing.
How will you keep me informed after referral?
After each consultation, we will send your clinic a detailed clinic summary report along with any relevant lab or diagnostic results.
If you have any questions about the treatment plan, please feel welcome to contact us.
Supporting You and Your Patients
Whether you are considering referral, managing a shared patient, or seeking guidance on general dermatology cases, our team is here to support you.
Learn more about how we work with referring veterinarians, how we keep you informed, and how we support ongoing case management.