The Referral Process


A referral from your local vets usually happens when your regular veterinary surgeon determines that your pet needs to be seen by a more advanced practitioner or a specialist who has more expertise in a specific field tailored to suit your pet’s individual needs.

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How can I organise a referral?

A referral will be initiated by your local vet practice.

They will need to complete a referral form and send all the appropriate documents directly to us.

We will then contact you to arrange an appointment.

(Please note that appointments are usually allocated in the mornings so that procedures and investigations can be scheduled in the afternoons).

Preparing For Your Appointment

Please bring your pet fasted to the appointment (This means no food given from midnight the night before unless directed otherwise by the reception team when booking).

Water can be given up until the appointment.

You are welcome to bring your pet’s favourite toy or blanket that smells of home.

If your pet has special dietary requirements, feel free to bring some food with you if they are likely to be staying overnight (Please note that we do not accept raw food).

Where possible, fill out the client registration forms previously emailed to you.

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Your Referral Appointment

On arrival please make your way to the main reception desk, hand over any completed paperwork and feel free to help yourself to a complimentary hot or cold drink.

Your initial consult will last approximately 45 minutes.

In this time the veterinary surgeon will undertake a full, in-depth examination and take a complete clinical history.

They will discuss the next steps and treatment options. You may need to leave your pet with us for a period of time.

 

In Our Care

At every stage you are in control and have the right to ask questions, explore alternative treatments, and discuss options to fit your budget and circumstances.

The decision to proceed with tests or treatments is always yours.

Throughout the time that your pet is in our care, you will receive regular updates from our dedicated nursing team.

At Anderson Abercromby, every care is taken to make sure our patients are made to feel at home.

We have a separate, quiet cat ward and we treat every pet as individuals and provide care tailored to their specific needs.

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Home Recovery Guidance

When your pet is discharged from our care, we will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions tailored to their individual needs..  These may include guidance on rest, exercise, wound care, and medication, as well as signs to look out for during their recovery.

If they are prescribed medication, it is important that you follow the instructions carefully and complete the course provided.

The vet, or a veterinary nurse will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding aftercare.

If your pet needs to return to us for a follow-up appointment, our reception team can arrange a suitable appointment for you.

Your regular vet will be provided with a detailed report from us following your visit.

Aftercare

The vet or nurse will give you full details about the ongoing care of your pet during the discharge appointment.

During recovery, avoid stairs, slippery floors and jumping on/off furniture. Use stair gates, carpets and runners, and restrict access to a small room or crate when unsupervised.

This will provide a safe environment for recovery and hopefully prevent any accidental injury or interference with any wounds.

Your pet will likely go home with a buster collar to prevent them reaching their wounds. Depending on the surgery, we can provide information on alternatives such as a soft collar, inflatable collar or Licksleeves,

If you have any concerns about your pet’s recovery, we are always available to offer advice. We may ask you to send photos of the surgical site or send videos of your pet’s movement to help us assess their progress.

Links to aftercare information and basic physiotherapy exercises can be provided where appropriate.

We usually see your pet back for a follow-up appointment to check their recovery is progressing well.

This may include X-rays so please bring your pet fasted for the appointment.

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