What is a Specialist Referral?

Referral to a veterinary specialist is similar to what happens with humans that need to see a specialist doctor (such as an Oncologist).  Most conditions can be handled by your GP but when a disease is severe or complicated, your pet may need help from a veterinarian who has had additional training in a certain field.

These often include:

• internal medicine (e.g. Diabetes and other endocrine diseases, kidney and liver disease, neurological diseases, seizures, heart disease, gastrointestinal problems)
• Surgery, (complicated fracture repair, spinal problems, reconstructive surgery)
• Oncology (diagnosis and staging, chemotherapy, cryosurgery, electrochemothrapy)
• Specialized imaging (ultrasound, echocardiography, CT and MRI.)
• Ophthalmology (eye problems)
• Dermatology (skin diseases, allergies, ear problems)

PVE is very fortunate to share the hospital with six specialist veterinarians in four of the above fields; internal medicine, oncology, surgery and imaging.

Specialist referral involves a consultation (which takes between 30-60min), a clinical examination of your animal and a discussion of options and costs.  Please use this opportunity to ask as many questions as possible to ensure your decision is well informed.