Our core services
CT scans
ECT oncology treatment
Laparoscopy
Soft tissue surgery
Orthopaedics
Bronchoscopy
Gastroscopy
Rhinoscopy
Oncology
Cystoscopy
What to expect when your pet is referred to us:
When your pet is referred to our practice, we understand that you may have lots of questions. Our aim is to make the process as smooth and reassuring as possible for both you and your pet. Below is a guide to what happens from the moment we receive your referral through to your pet’s discharge.
Initial contact and booking
Once we receive a referral from your veterinary practice, The referral team will contact you by phone to arrange your appointment.
During this call we will:
- Confirm the reason for your pet’s referral
- Discuss the procedure your pet may need
- Allocate the most appropriate surgeon for your pet’s case
- Talk through estimated costs and discuss insurance if applicable
- Ensure we have received all relevant medical history and X-rays from your regular vet
- If your pet is insured, we will discuss our insurance process.
- Provide you with our contact number and directions to the practice.
- Answer any questions you may have about the procedure or your pet’s visit
We understand that owners often have many questions, so we allow time for a thorough conversation to make sure you feel informed and comfortable about the next steps.
Preparing your pet for their procedure
Before your pet’s procedure, please follow these instructions:
Food: Dogs and cats must not eat after 10:00pm the evening before their procedure
Water: Your pet may continue to drink water as normal
Further instructions will also be included in your appointment reminder sent to you a few days before your visit.
Admission on the day
On the day of the procedure, you will be given a 30-minute morning admission appointment.
This appointment will be with the surgeon who will be performing the procedure.
During this time the surgeon will:
- Meet you and your pet
- Perform a clinical examination
- Explain the procedure in detail
- Discuss expected outcomes and recovery
- Answer any questions or concerns you may have
- This meeting ensures you feel fully informed and comfortable before your pet’s procedure begins.
During the day
Your pet will stay with us for the day while their procedure is carried out.
Once your pet has fully recovered from their anaesthetic, one of our recovery nurses will call you with an update. At this point, we will also arrange your discharge appointment.
In most cases, overnight hospitalisation is not required, unless the procedure is more complex (for example, certain spinal surgeries).
Discharge appointment
Your pet will be discharged by the surgeon who carried out the procedure.
During this appointment the surgeon will:
- Explain how the procedure went
- Go through post-operative care instructions
- Discuss recovery expectations
- Answer any further questions you may have
Communication with your regular vet
As a referral practice, we work closely with your regular veterinary practice.
After your pet’s procedure, a detailed report will be sent to your vet. This will include information about the procedure performed and recommendations for ongoing care.
Your regular vet will then continue to support your pet’s recovery.
Staying in touch
If you have any concerns or questions at any stage, please do not hesitate to contact us. The referral team will be your main point of contact.
Our goal is to ensure that both you and your pet feel supported, informed, and well cared for throughout the referral process.
Your questions answered
Yes, in most cases you’ll need a referral from your regular veterinarian. This ensures we have a complete understanding of your pet’s medical history, previous treatments, and any diagnostic tests already performed. Working closely with your primary vet allows us to provide the most appropriate care while keeping them informed throughout your pet’s treatment. Once your pet’s treatment is complete, we’ll send a detailed report back to your vet so they can continue any ongoing care.
Yes. If you’re looking for a second opinion about your pet’s diagnosis, treatment options, or ongoing care, we’re happy to help. In most cases, we’ll ask your regular veterinarian to refer your pet and provide their medical records, including any test results or imaging, so our referral clinicians have the fullest possible picture of your pet’s health. After your consultation, we’ll share our findings and recommendations with your regular vet to ensure your pet’s care remains coordinated.
Your regular veterinarian will usually arrange the referral on your behalf using the referral form on our Referrals page. Once we’ve received your pet’s referral and medical history, our team will review the information and contact your veterinary practice to arrange a suitable appointment.
If you have any questions about the referral process or would like an update on your referral, you’re welcome to get in touch with our team, who will be happy to help.
You can also visit our ‘Referring Your Pet – What to Expect’ page for more information here about the referral process and what to expect before, during and after your appointment.
Yes. Your regular veterinarian remains an important part of your pet’s care throughout the referral process. We’ll work closely with them, providing updates on your pet’s assessment
- CT scans
- Orthopaedic surgery
- Soft tissue surgery
- Laparoscopy
- Endoscopy – Rhinoscopy, Bronchoscopy, Cystoscopy, Gastroscopy
- Arthroscopy
- ECT oncology treatment
