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DOI: https:// doi. org / 10.56496 / IJOY8697

Michelle Greaves, BVMS, CertAVP( VD), MRCVS

Michelle spent several years in both mixed and small animal practice, where she gained her CertAVP in veterinary dermatology. She moved into an industry veterinary role in 2015 and is enjoying working for Zoetis as its national veterinary manager in dermatology. Michelle is a long-standing member of the British Veterinary Dermatology Study Group, and sits on the organising committee as PR secretary. She enjoys all things dermatology, but has a particular interest in atopic dermatitis, antimicrobial resistance and the pharmacology of dermatological therapies.

ABSTRACT Dermatological disease is a common and often chronic presentation in small animal practice, requiring ongoing management and strong client engagement. A single, in-clinic injection of Cytopoint( Zoetis) provides a full month of relief from pruritus associated with allergic and atopic dermatitis in dogs.

This article explores how veterinary nurses( VNs) can transform routine Cytopoint rechecks into high-value dermatology consultations. It highlights the importance of VN-led clinics in developing client trust and engagement, providing continuity of care, supporting long-term treatment plans and enhancing patient welfare through regular monitoring.

The use of a recheck schedule and structured appointments is discussed in relation to the monthly administration of Cytopoint as part of multimodal dermatology care. Practical guidance is provided on pre-consultation preparation, including reviewing patient history, checking treatment response data, preparing the medication and familiarisation with related protocols. A step-by-step guide to the recheck consultation is also provided.

Communication is identified as a key component of successful consultations, with strategies such as using open questioning, explaining and agreeing management plans with clients to align expectations, and providing meaningful recommendations and supporting information to improve client adherence and satisfaction. VN-led dermatology clinics can enhance clinical outcomes, improve efficiency and increase professional fulfilment within practice.

Keywords Cytopoint, dermatology, atopic dermatitis, pruritus management, veterinary nurse clinics, client communication

22 Veterinary Nursing Journal