When Should You and Your Pet See a Veterinary Specialist?

As loving pet owners in Colorado Springs, we all want the very best for our animal companions. While your primary care veterinarian is your go-to for routine check-ups, vaccinations, and common ailments, not all pet health problems can be resolved during a routine visit.

Just like in human medicine, some cases require the expertise of a specialist with advanced training in a specific area of veterinary medicine. At North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs, we offer access to board-certified specialists who work alongside your regular vet to provide the highest level of care when your pet needs it most.

What Is a Veterinary Specialist?

Think of a veterinary specialist like a human medical specialist. They have completed extensive additional training in a specific area of veterinary medicine after graduating from veterinary school. This focused expertise allows them to diagnose and treat complex or unusual conditions that may fall outside the scope of general practice.

Common veterinary specialties include:

• Veterinary Internal Medicine: Focusing on diseases of the internal body systems.
• Veterinary Surgery: Performing complex orthopedic and soft tissue surgical procedures.
• Veterinary Cardiology: Specializing in heart conditions and heart surgery.
• Veterinary Radiology: Performing and interpreting specialized imaging such as ultrasounds, x-rays, fluoroscopy, and CT scans.
• Veterinary Rehabilitation: Focusing on physical therapy, acupuncture, and exercise therapy to decrease pain and improve recovery.
• Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care: Providing specialized care for critically ill or injured animals.

Signs Your Pet May Need a Specialist

Several situations warrant a referral to a veterinary specialist, like those at North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs. Here are some key indicators:

Complex, Chronic, or Unusual Medical Conditions

If your pet has a condition that your primary veterinarian finds challenging to diagnose or treat, a specialist with in-depth knowledge and advanced diagnostic tools can provide valuable insights.
Example: Persistent vomiting and weight loss could indicate a complex issue requiring a veterinary internal medicine specialist.

Conditions Requiring Advanced Diagnostics

Specialists have access to equipment not typically found in general practice, such as:

• Advanced imaging (ultrasounds, fluoroscopy, CT scans)
• Specialized laboratory tests
• Endoscopy

These tools are crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Surgical Procedures Beyond Routine

While general practitioners perform many surgeries, complex orthopedic surgeries or intricate soft tissue procedures are best handled by a veterinary surgeon with specialized training and experience.

Specialized Treatments

Certain treatments, such as advanced cardiac interventions or treatment of autoimmune and endocrine diseases, fall under the expertise of specialists.

Lack of Improvement with Standard Treatment

If your pet’s condition isn’t improving as expected with standard treatment from your primary veterinarian, a specialist may offer alternative approaches or identify underlying issues.

Emergency Situations Requiring Intensive Care

In critical situations like severe trauma, respiratory distress, or complex poisonings, a veterinary emergency team can provide the lifesaving support your pet needs.

Pain Management or Rehabilitation After Surgery

Chronic pain management, post-operative care, and specialized treatments performed by a veterinary rehabilitation team can dramatically improve your pet’s quality of life and surgical recovery.

A Team-Based Approach to Specialty Care

The specialty teams at North Springs Veterinary Referral Center work closely with your family veterinarian to ensure your pet gets seamless, collaborative care.

Do I Need a Referral?

Most of the time, yes — your primary vet will recognize when a specialist’s expertise is needed and will initiate the referral process. They will:

• Discuss the reasons for the referral with you
• Send over your pet’s medical records to the North Springs Veterinary Referral Center specialty department
• You will then schedule an appointment directly with our specialist’s office

However, if you’re unsure whether your pet needs a second opinion or if your pet is experiencing an emergency, give us a call or come directly to the emergency hospital. We’re happy to help you.

Conclusion

North Springs Veterinary Referral Center is committed to providing your pet with:

• The expertise of board-certified specialists
• Collaborative medicine
• Specialized diagnostics
• And compassionate care

All to significantly improve your pet’s chances of recovery and long-term well-being.

By recognizing the signs and understanding the benefits of specialized care, you can ensure your beloved companion receives the most advanced and appropriate treatment for complex health challenges — ultimately leading to a happier and healthier life.

If your pet needs a specialist, we’re here to help. Contact North Springs Veterinary Referral Center in Colorado Springs today to schedule your appointment.