FAQs

Please ensure the new client form we send via email is completed and returned before your consultation.
Most pet insurance policies cover some or all specialist veterinary care. We recommend contacting your provider before the appointment to confirm coverage, and we can provide cost estimates if needed.
Payment is required at the time of discharge. We accept EFTPOS, credit cards, and cash (though no cash is held onsite). We also offer VetCare Finance as a payment option.
To help us manage our waiting list, please provide at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel your appointment. Missed appointments without prior notice may incur the full consultation fee.
We most frequently treat dogs, cats, and horses, but we can assist with skin diseases in other animals as well.
While our main clinic is in Palmerston North, we also hold regular satellite clinics in Wellington, Otaki, and Hastings.
For pets with atopic dermatitis or those unable to travel, we offer a phone referral service for your veterinarian and provide immunotherapy prescriptions where suitable.

A specialist veterinary dermatologist is a veterinarian who has undertaken extensive training, including a 3-4 year recognized residency program, and passed an intensive examination covering all aspects of veterinary dermatology. This training encompasses dermatological care for a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, small mammals, farm animals, birds, reptiles, and fish.
During this residency, specialists manage numerous complex cases, complete an extensive study program, and publish original research in the field of veterinary dermatology.
Because of their advanced training, specialist veterinary dermatologists possess exceptional expertise in diagnosing and treating animal skin and ear diseases.
To become a specialist, a veterinarian must complete a residency and pass a board examination. Specialists are identified by the letters after their name that indicate their training, such as:
- ACVD (American College of Veterinary Dermatology)
- ANZCVS (Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Surgeons)
- ECVD (European College of Veterinary Dermatology)
Dr. Helen Orbell, founder of RASH, is a Diplomate of the ACVD (DACVD). She is one of three specialist veterinary dermatologists in New Zealand and the only one based outside of Auckland.
As a specialist dermatology clinic, we provide advanced expertise, diagnostics, and equipment to manage complex skin and ear diseases. Our extended consultation times allow us to gather detailed histories, conduct thorough examinations, and discuss management options in depth. This level of care is often beyond what general veterinary practices can provide.
Itching (pruritus) in pets is commonly caused by allergic skin or ear diseases, including:
- Flea allergy dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis, often triggered by environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, molds, and insects
- Food allergies
Other causes of itching include external parasites, secondary infections, and inflamed skin. Symptoms in dogs and cats may include chewing, licking, scooting, rubbing, or head shaking. Over time, this may lead to redness, hair loss, rashes, scabs, or changes in skin color.
Some skin diseases can be cured, but many, including atopic dermatitis, require ongoing management rather than a cure. At RASH, we specialize in creating personalized management plans tailored to each pet's specific needs to effectively control their condition and improve their quality of life.
Your initial consultation will last 60-90 minutes. During this time:
- A veterinary nurse will greet you, check your pet’s weight, and settle you into the consultation room.
- Dr. Helen will collect a detailed history and perform a thorough examination.
- Skin, ear, and coat samples may be taken and analysed under a microscope to identify the cause of your pet’s condition.
- A personalised management plan will be created and discussed with you.
- Instructions for medications and treatments will be carefully explained, and a follow-up consultation will be scheduled.
We prioritise communication and will contact you the day after the consultation to answer any questions and ensure you feel supported.