Before the appointment
Write down the changes you noticed and when they began. Bring any test reports and list current foods, treats and supplements. The WSAVA diet-history form is a reference for organizing the diet details.
The problem we are investigating
- What possible causes are you considering?
- What information is missing from my dog’s history?
- Which observations would be useful for me to record?
The proposed test or trial
- What specific question would this answer?
- How would the result change the plan?
- What evidence supports using it in my dog’s situation?
- If a diet trial is appropriate, how would you guide it and check that it remains suitable?
- What costs and follow-up visits should I plan for?
After the visit
- When should I expect results or a reassessment?
- Who should I contact with questions?
- What changes should prompt an earlier call?
Write down the agreed next step and ask for clarification where needed. For background, read the testing overview; this worksheet does not select a test for your dog.
Colin F.
Printed this list for our appointment on Friday. The question about what decision a test result would change is the one I'd never have thought to ask.
Yuki I.
Is it reasonable to ask for a referral to a veterinary dermatologist at a first allergy appointment, or do most vets prefer to work through the basics themselves first?
Veterinarians.org Editorial Team
It's always reasonable to ask — how the referral conversation goes depends on your dog's case and your clinic. The article's questions about next steps and expectations are designed to open exactly that discussion.
Marta J.
Took these questions to our recheck. It turned a ten-minute appointment into a real plan, including what we'd try next if the current approach stalls.