Research Focus

Research Focus

As UC Davis’ first Veterinary Dermatology-focused research laboratory, we aim to improve the lives of animals suffering from skin diseases, as well as the lives of their dedicated owners.

Skin diseases are incredibly common in dogs, cats, and horses and can predispose to chronic and recurrent itch, rash, ear and skin infections, as well as hair loss. Unfortunately, many of the skin diseases that occur in animals require long-term to lifelong treatment which can be costly, time-consuming, and may cause adverse side effects. Sadly, we know so little about why skin diseases occur in animals! Without a detailed understanding understanding of how these diseases work, we are unable to develop safer and more effective medications. 

For over 45 years, the Veterinary Dermatology service at the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital has provided high quality, cutting edge, and compassionate medical care to companion animals living with skin and ear disease. In 2024, Dr. Tyler Jordan established UC Davis’ first Veterinary Dermatology-focused research laboratory currently situated in the Center for Companion Animal Health. 

The Jordan Laboratory aims to better understand “how” and “why” skin and ear diseases occur in companion animals by performing clinical trials, benchtop research, and collaborating with physicians and scientists across UC Davis and other institutions. Our laboratory has a particular research interest in itch, inflammatory and autoimmune skin diseases, as well as skin cancers in dogs, cats, and horses.

The ultimate goal of the Jordan Laboratory is to make discoveries that improve the diagnosis and management of skin and ear diseases in animals and lead to improved patient care, animal welfare, and treatment outcomes.

Please consider supporting the UC Davis Clinical and Comparative Dermatology Laboratory by clicking here to make a donation.