Pets that need specialist attention are referred to us much the same as your GP would refer you to see a consultant for very specific treatments. In the overall view of cases seen in the country the number that need referral is probably quite small and the local veterinary surgeon can deal with many cases themselves. They would recognise the pet that would need more specialised treatment and for the animals sake would refer then to have further work carried out. Needless to say the pets that are referred usually have complex problems.