Obtaining a Veterinary Second Opinion for Your Dog

Second opinions and referrals often cause great anxiety for pet owners, regardless of whether they are suggested by the veterinarian or considered by the dog owner.

Sometimes things do not go as planned and the veterinarian treating the pet suggests that a second opinion with another veterinarian might be in the best interests of the patient.

In other cases, clients become frustrated with their pet’s progress or a friend or neighbor suggests they seek a second opinion. In these instances, clients may feel uncomfortable about discussing this with their regular veterinarian. 

In most cases, veterinarians simply want what is best for the pet and will not feel threatened or offended. In fact, most veterinarians can help you choose the best veterinarian for a second opinion based on your pet’s condition.

What is the difference between a second opinion and a referral?

A second opinion refers to another equally credentialed veterinarian’s opinion on a case. A referral is the transfer of a patient from a general practitioner to a specialist veterinarian.

What are the reasons for referral?

Pets can be referred to a specialist for a variety of reasons. They normally fall into two main groups:

1. The patient requires advanced diagnostic or surgical equipment or procedures not available at the general practitioner’s facility.
2. The patient requires advanced expertise in a certain condition or specialty, or advanced experience with a particular species.

How do I schedule a referral or second opinion?

You and your veterinarian are both concerned about what is best for your dog. If you would like a second opinion or a referral, discuss it with your veterinarian and together decide what is most appropriate. It is important that the specialist or second opinion veterinarian has all the facts, including your pet’s relevant medical history.

Once you have discussed obtaining a second opinion or referral with your veterinarian, they can help coordinate the appointment and ensure the full medical history is forwarded in time for your appointment, including any laboratory or diagnostic records. Depending on the specialist, they may schedule appointments through you or through your primary care. Regardless of their scheduling preference, they will need medical records from your primary care veterinarian.

How much does a referral cost?

Referral to a specialist is usually more expensive than a general practice veterinarian. If your pet is insured, the cost is usually covered by the insurance company. It is your responsibility to check with your pet health insurer and to make any necessary financial arrangements before your referral appointment.

Most referral centers will give you an estimate of the costs involved with your visit. It is important to understand that this estimate gives you an idea of the cost, but is not an accurate invoice.

Will I need to travel far to see a specialist?

You may need to travel to see a specialist, depending on the type of specialist required and their location relative to your home. Referral to a specialist may involve a visit to a veterinary school and sometimes requires traveling a considerable distance, although referral centers are increasingly being established in urban and suburban areas. In some situations, there may be a traveling specialist that would come to your veterinarian’s practice for consultations or procedures.