New Head for Dermatology Service

Dr Tim Nuttall rejoined the Dick Vet as Head of Dermatology on the 12th August, marking a welcome return to Edinburgh, where Tim did his residency and PhD.

Tim graduated from the University of Bristol in 1992 and joined the Dick Vet in 1995 after a spell in general practice. He joined the University of Liverpool in 2001 and in 2004 was made Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Dermatology.

While working for the University of Liverpool, Tim started a referral dermatology clinic which now sees over 1000 appointments each year. He has an active research programme, studying antimicrobial resistance, host-pathogen interactions and the genetics of canine atopic dermatitis. He is the author of over 70 clinical and scientific publications, is a co-author of A Colour Handbook of Skin Diseases of the Dog and Cat, and has presented over 100 lectures throughout the world. In addition, Tim has served on BSAVA, ESVD and DEFRA scientific committees, the International Committee on Atopic Diseases in Animals, is a scientific advisor to the Bella Moss Foundation and was a co-editor of Veterinary Dermatology.

Tim is excited by the amazing changes to the Dick Vet during his absence, and is looking forward to leading the Dermatology Service through a period of change and on to greater success.

We must recognise that that vets and clients have a choice. We will provide a flexible and responsive service to make the referral experience as easy as possible, without compromising clinical care. The flexible appointment schedule will allow clients to visit when convenient and will facilitate prompt referral of severe cases.

Tim also knows that good communication is vital in clinical care and building strong relationships with local vets and clients. He has committed that all the clients will go home with full written discharge notes and a letter will be emailed or faxed to the referring vet on the same. Traditional media, the internet and targeted CPD events will also be used. He is also planning to bring in a new dermatology e-mail service which will be a great way for vets and clients to get in touch for advice or even simply reorder a new immunotherapy vaccine.

Having acted as Assessment Officer, Academic Sub-Dean and Head of Veterinary Education at Liverpool Tim is committed to teaching.

Clinical teaching is indispensable. There is no substitute for actually having to see a real client and manage their animal’s skin problem. Busy teaching hospitals help us produce first class graduates well equipped for veterinary practice.

On a personal level Tim and his Edinburgh-born (but Skye-raised) wife Jill are delighted to be returning to Scotland, as their years there were among their happiest.

Jill is looking forward to being closer to family and on site for the festival and hogmanay, but for me, being closer to my remaining 51 Munros and the Scotch Malt Whisky Society HQ may be more important.

Dermatology at the Dick Vet

• Senior dermatologists who are recognised Specialists in Veterinary Dermatology
• Prompt referral
• Flexible appointment schedule
• Dedicated dermatology treatment suite
• Full range of facilities to investigate and treat skin, ear and nail disease in dogs and cats
• Horses and other species seen in collaboration with the Equine Hospital and Farm Animal Teaching Hospital
• Video-otoscopy for viewing and treating ear disease
• Expertise in allergic skin disease
• Allergy testing and immunotherapy
• Excellent hospital staff and facilities
• CT and MRI scans
• Dermatology email advice and update service