Author: Michelle Greaves, BVMS, CertAVP (VD), MRCVS Sponsored by Zoetis

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

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

To cite this article: Greaves, M. (2026) Dermatology care in dogs A practical guide to maximising Cytopoint recheck consultations. VNJ 41(3) pp22-27.

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