what to expect at your pet’s dermatology appointment at Mountain Star
Welcome to Mountain Star Veterinary Specialists
Colorado’s premier, privately-owned veterinary ophthalmology and dermatology center
Thank you for choosing Mountain Star Veterinary Specialists for your pet’s care. We appreciate the trust you’ve placed in us. To ensure a smooth experience, please review the following information before your appointment:
New Patient Questionnaire
Please click on the link below to fill out our new patient questionnaire before your appointment. This will allow our doctors to review your pet’s medical history in advance.
If you are unable to complete the questions prior to your appointment, please arrive 15 minutes early to ensure timely processing.
Initial Examination Process
A board-certified veterinary dermatologist and a veterinary technician will be in the exam room with you and your pet. Our medical team will review all medical records and history prior to the exam. This includes information about your pet’s diet, living environment, previous medical treatments, and the duration and progression of any skin issues.
During the exam, the doctor will visually inspect your pet’s skin, looking for any abnormalities such as lesions, rashes, redness, swelling, or hair loss. The doctor will also consider your pet’s overall health and any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the skin problem. They will work closely with the family to develop a comprehensive treatment plan aimed at improving your pet’s skin health and quality of life. We minimize patient anxiety by practicing low-stress handling and by having you be present to comfort your pet.
The doctor may recommend initial in-house diagnostics such as cytology of the skin and/or ear, and skin scraping. These diagnostics are included in the exam fee:
- Skin scrape and trichogram (hair pluck) will evaluate for: ectoparasites and hair abnormalities
- Skin cytology will evaluate for: bacteria, fungi/yeast, parasites, and inflammatory cells
- Ear cytology will evaluate for: parasites, bacteria, fungi/yeast, and inflammatory cells
Additional testing such as allergy testing, skin biopsies, skin cultures, etc. are not included in this initial exam fee and an estimate for additional testing, if indicated, will be provided.
If additional testing is recommended and with your approval, our doctors can often perform these diagnostic tests during the appointment. Following the examination and tests, the doctor will develop a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s specific condition. This may include medications such as antibiotics, antifungals, or steroids, as well as topical treatments, dietary changes, immunotherapy for allergies and/or an estimate for any additional diagnostics or treatments.
For many dermatology patients, follow-ups and ongoing client communication are vital in the continuing treatment and care. It can take more than one visit to get some conditions resolved.
Appointment Policies
- Reminders: Please note that you will receive text and email reminders one to two days prior to your scheduled appointment. We kindly request confirmation within 24 hours of your appointment. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
- Cancellation Policy: If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance. Failure to do so may result in a cancellation fee or the requirement to pay a deposit for future appointments.
- Arrival: Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment time.
- Fasting: Ensure your pet fasts at least 4 hours before the appointment.
- Fear Free: If your pet gets anxious at the vet, around people or other animals, please let our team know in advance. We will discuss with you what your concerns are and create a stress-free plan prior to the visit.
Contact Information
If you have any questions, call us at 720-500-5878 or email us at info@mountainstarvs.vet.
Note: If your dog is sneezing, coughing, or feeling unwell, please inform our team prior to entering the building, so we can take necessary precautions.
Privacy Notice and Parking Information
We may use images of our patients on our social media platforms. If you do not want your pet’s image posted, please alert our team.
Parking is available in front of the hospital and behind the shopping plaza, accessible via S. Columbine Way. The hidden back parking lot is less crowded.
We look forward to providing exceptional care to your pet at Mountain Star Veterinary Specialists. See you soon!
