Smooth Transition During Transfer
When your beloved pet is facing a medical crisis, the last thing you need is added stress. If your general practice veterinarian determines that your pet requires immediate, specialized, or intensive care, they may recommend a direct transfer to North Springs Veterinary Referral Center’s emergency room (ER). This coordinated effort is designed to ensure your pet receives seamless and swift access to advanced medical attention and care that they cannot get elsewhere.
Understanding what to expect during this transfer process can help alleviate some of your anxieties and prepare you for your arrival at our state-of-the-art facility.
Why Would My Pet Need to Be Transferred?
Your primary care veterinarian is excellent at handling a wide range of pet health needs. However, in emergency situations, certain conditions require specialized equipment, 24/7 monitoring, or the expertise of veterinary specialists. A transfer ensures that your pet receives the specific care they need without delay, which can be crucial in time-sensitive cases where every minute counts.
What to Expect During the Direct Transfer Process
Your Veterinarian Initiates the Transfer
Once your primary vet assesses your pet and determines the need for advanced emergency care, they will contact North Springs Veterinary Referral Center’s Emergency Department.
During this call, your vet will speak directly with our emergency veterinary team to discuss your pet’s current condition, vital signs, initial diagnostics, and the reason for the transfer. This “phone report” is critical so our team can prepare for your pet’s arrival.
Your veterinarian will also typically send over your pet’s medical records, including blood work, X-rays, and any treatments administered. This is usually done via email or fax to ensure our team has a comprehensive understanding of your pet’s history.
Preparing for Your Arrival at North Springs VRC
Our ER team will use the information from your vet to anticipate your pet’s needs. This might involve prepping specific equipment, medications, and being available for immediate triage.
Our reception staff will be notified of your arrival and will be ready to greet you and guide you upon entering the hospital.
Your Journey to North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs
You will be instructed by your veterinarian on the safest way to transport your pet. This may include using a carrier, keeping your pet calm, or helping them stay comfortable if they are in pain.
Please focus on driving safely to our facility, located at:
10520 White Diamond Pt, Colorado Springs, CO 80908
If someone is traveling with you, they can fill out our Emergency Intake Form (LINK) ahead of time, or you can complete it upon arrival.
Arrival and Triage at Our Emergency Department
Once you arrive, our emergency team will immediately triage your pet—a rapid assessment to determine severity and prioritize any immediate life-saving interventions.
Even if your pet was just seen by your family vet, our team will conduct our own initial evaluation to ensure we’re working with the most accurate and current data.
Initial Assessment and Communication with Our Team
After triage, an emergency veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of your pet.
They will speak with you about their findings, explain the suspected issue, recommend diagnostic tests (e.g., blood work, imaging), and outline a preliminary treatment plan.
You will also receive a cost estimate for the initial stabilization and diagnostics.
Transfer of Care and Ongoing Updates
Once the initial assessment is complete and you authorize care, your pet will be admitted for monitoring and treatment.
Our emergency team will continue to stay in touch with your family vet, sharing updates on your pet’s condition. Your vet will also have real-time access to records via our online portal.
You’ll receive regular updates from our team. As noted in our other blog, camera access for hospitalized pets is available—ask our staff for details on this comforting feature.
Benefits of a Direct Transfer to North Springs VRC
Speed and Efficiency
Direct transfers minimize delays and help pets receive life-saving care faster.Continuity of Care
A seamless hand-off between your vet and our team ensures no detail is lost.Access to Advanced Care
Our facility is equipped with specialized diagnostics, treatments, and a highly trained team unavailable in most general practices.Reduced Stress (for You and Your Pet)
A well-coordinated plan helps reduce uncertainty and emotional strain during emergencies.
Conclusion
North Springs Veterinary Referral Center is committed to working closely with your trusted family veterinarian to deliver the highest level of emergency and specialty care.
If your vet recommends a transfer to our Emergency Department, rest assured—your pet will be in compassionate and capable hands, receiving immediate and advanced treatment when they need it most.
If you believe your pet is having an emergency, don’t wait.
Call North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs—available 24/7.