Initial Consultation:

The initial consult typically runs 60 minutes and includes a detailed history, review of previous medical records, and a thorough physical exam.  During the appointment skin/ear cytology may be performed to help identify secondary infections and parasites.  Based on exam findings and history you will be given a medical treatment plan, including cost estimate, and any recommended additional diagnostics.  Written discharge instructions will be provided and your regular veterinarian will receive a complete visit summary.  You can expect to be at the clinic for approximately 1.5 hours during your pets initial consultation.

Re-check Examination:

A re-check examination typically lasts 30 minutes, and it includes a review of the previous visit, a progress report, and discussion about your pet’s response to therapy.  Skin and/or ear cytology may also be required to determine if any secondary infections have been resolved.

Brief Re-check Examination:

This is a brief focused examination that usually runs about 15 minutes and is used to monitor ongoing progress in pets with established treatment plans.

Intradermal Skin Testing 

Intradermal skin testing measures your pet’s immune (histamine) response to airborne allergens.  This test involves twilight sedation.  An area under the arm is shaved and local allergens are injected just under the surface of the skin.  A hive is formed at the allergen injection site to which your pet is most sensitive.  The strongest positive reactions are used to formulate a customized cocktail of allergens used to desensitize the immune system.  In order for skin testing to be performed the patient must be free of antihistamines for 1 week, oral steroids for 2 weeks, and injectable steroids for 4 weeks. 

Serum Allergy Testing

Serum allergy testing measures your pet’s antibody response to airborne allergens.  This test involves a blood draw and results are usually available within 2 weeks.  The strongest positive reactions are used to formulate a customized cocktail of allergens used to desensitize the immune system.

Skin Biopsy and Histopathology

Some skin diseases and masses are impossible to diagnose on physical exam alone.  A small punch biopsy of the skin is submitted to a veterinary pathologist who will look at the sample at the cellular level and provide a written diagnosis based on microscopic findings.  A treatment plan will then be established with Dr. Eckholm.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy is a simple, easy way to remove small skin growths.  This procedure involves freezing the growth with a very cold substance (nitrous oxide).  The growth will form a scab and will typically fall off within a week or two.  This procedure is fast and in most cases does not require sedation. 

Video Otoscopy

A video otoscope is used to magnify and visualize the ear canal and ear drum.  It is often indicated to flush the ear canal in patients with chronic ear infections.  It can also be used to remove small growths or foreign material, such as foxtails.  This procedure involves general anesthesia and is performed on an out-patient basis. 

Most prescription refills can be ordered through our prescription portal and delivered directly to your home.  We appreciate you ordering medications through Golden Gate Veterinary Specialists.  We strive to keep our pricing competitive with other online pharmacies.  Ordering through us allows Dr. Eckholm to monitor progress to be sure medications are being administered correctly. Your pets prescriptions are filled by the very technicians that care for your pet when they come into the clinic.  Please allow 48 hours for prescriptions to be refilled.