Referrals
When a case requires specialist involvement we are always happy to advise and arrange referral. Our colleagues at the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, experts in soft tissue surgery, orthopaedics, internal medicine, neurology, dermatology, behaviour, ophthalmology, anaesthesia, cardiology, diagnostic imaging and emergency and critical care, are always at hand.
Please remember that referrals to see specialists can only be arranged through your first opinion vet (no different to your Doctor making an appointment at a hospital for you). It is very important that referral vets have a complete history of the case so far and the results of any tests taken and treatments given. This avoids repetition and ensures that the specialist can continue where your usual vet has left off. It is in your pet's best interest and it is not a process that can be bypassed.
Second Opinions
If you do not wish to see a specialist but would like an opinion from a different veterinary practice, for whatever reason, this should never be a problem. When making an appointment at the practice you have chosen you must let them know that your pet is under treatment or has had treatment elsewhere. They will then contact your usual vet and ask for a complete history for your pet. Again this is in the best interests of your pet and avoids repetition which wastes valuable time getting treatment for your pet and your money. It is not something you should ever feel awkward or embarrassed about.