Dermatological problems are often extremely frustrating, requiring a unique combination of vigilant care and the latest technology. At LIVS our principles of compassion and technology combine to bring you and your pet the best specialty care available. We value the human-animal bond, and strive to enrich the lives of our clients and animal companions. Our goal is to provide you with individual attention while addressing your pet's medical needs. Skin disease is unfortunately common in dogs and cats and dealing with the various causative disorders can be very frustrating for pet owners and family veterinarians. The Dermatology Department at LIVS is dedicated to diagnosing and effectively treating all manner of skin disease in companion animals. Dr. Rada Panich (board-certified veterinary dermatologist) is the most experienced veterinary dermatologist on Long Island and was the first in her specialty to start practicing on Long Island. In addition to Dr. Panich, the Dermatology Department is staffed by specially-trained technicians.
There are hundreds of different skin diseases currently recognized in the dog and cat. Many of these diseases look very much alike, with only subtle differences in clinical picture and historical backgrounds. Our dermatologist, Dr. Panich, ACVD is trained to focus on these differences and pursue a direct and cost-effective diagnostic work-up.
Some of the skin disorders afflicting dogs and cats are the following:
- • Allergic skin disease (atopy)
- • Bacterial skin disease (pyoderma)
- • Fungal skin disease
- • Parasite-associated skin disease (fleas, mites)
- • Metabolic skin disease (calcinosis cutis, hepatocutaneous syndrome)
- • Neoplastic (cancer-associated) and paraneoplastic skin disease
- • Traumatic skin disease (wounds, burns)
- • Chronic and Severe skin and ear disease
- • Immune-mediated and hormonal skin disease
- • Nail and nail bed diseases
- • Skin manifestations of internal disease
Why Do You Need a Specialist?
Within the past two decades, unprecedented advances in veterinary medicine have created the need for specialists. Board certification in a specialty requires a doctorate in veterinary medicine and a 2 -3 year residency program in the area of specialty. Following completion of the residency program, a rigorous board certification examination is taken. After completion of these requirements, a veterinarian who has pursued specialization in dermatology becomes a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology. As specialists, we stay current on new research and treatments, and are often actively involved with the research.
Abnormalities of the skin often are reflective of underlying abnormalities of certain internal organs. Some abnormalities of the skin are due to trauma and may require corrective surgical (reconstructive) procedures. The Dermatology Department works closely with other specialists with in LIVS when necessary to address all the issues associated with a specific patient’s skin problems.
