David Shearer BVetMed CertSAD PhD CBiol MIBiol MRCVS

David qualified from the Royal Veterinary College in 1984 where he was Medicine Intern. After several years in mixed practice he spent nine years at the University of Bristol Vet School where he obtained his PhD in canine skin immunology. He has co-authored a text book 'Veterinary Ectoparasites' and presented papers at dermatology meetings.

The course will be entirely based around the discussion of a series of clinical cases. We will cover the major clinical signs seen in dermatology: pruritus, alopecia, crusting, scaling, ulceration, pigment changes, masses and discharging sinuses. Each case will provide a vehicle to discuss aspects of disease pathogenesis, investigation and treatment in an enjoyable, entertaining and interactive fashion. Discussion and questioning will be encouraged throughout the course.

Who should attend: 

The course is designed for those in general practice with a desire to improve their understanding of skin disease and develop an ability to effectively investigate and treat animals presenting with skin disease. It will also suit those who would like to pursue a more long term interest in dermatology.

• Recognise and describe the common clinical signs in dermatology
• Understand the basic processes leading to the skin disease
• Construct a list of differential diagnoses based on the clinical signs and history
• Plan a logical approach to investigating skin disease
• Treat and manage skin cases in the long term

Learning objectives

By the end of this course delegates should have a thorough understanding of:

• The main clinical signs seen in skin disease
• The pathogenesis of major signs of skin disease
• How to apply a problem solving approach to skin cases
• What diagnostic test or tests to use to confirm a diagnosis
• The main therapeutic agents available for treating skin disease