Before your pet undergoes surgery, ask the questions they can’t. As in human medicine, there are many surgeries animals undergo that would benefit from the attention of a specialist. Your pet depends on you to find a veterinarian with sufficient experience and training to perform that surgery. To help you and your pet, there is a network of veterinary surgical specialists ready to provide the special surgical care your pet needs. These specialists are the board-certified members of the European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS) and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). If your pet needs surgery that is more than ‘routine’, be sure to ask your veterinarian the following questions:
- How often does the veterinarian perform this type of surgery?
- Does the surgery require special equipment? Is it available?
- Does my pet’s surgery require a specialist?
- What should I expect the outcome of the surgery to be?
- What follow-up care is necessary?
What is a Board Certified Surgeon?
The term “ECVS Diplomate” or RCVS Specialist refers to a veterinarian who has been board certified in veterinary surgery. Only veterinarians who have successfully completed the certification requirements of the ECVS are Diplomates of the European College of Veterinary Surgeons and/or the RCVS and have earned the right to be called specialists in veterinary surgery.
Veterinarians wishing to become board certified must complete a three-year residency program, meet specific training and caseload requirements, perform research and have their research published. This process is supervised by current ECVS Diplomates and RCVS specialists, ensuring consistency in training and adherence to high standards. Once the residency has been completed, the resident must sit for and pass a rigorous examination. Only then does the veterinarian earn the title of ECVS Diplomate or RCVS specialist.
How do I find the right specialist?
No matter what type of orthopaedic surgery your pet needs, the most important factor in its success is the surgeon you choose. Although there’s no magic number (of years or procedures) that defines “experience,” you should feel comfortable that the surgeon you choose is well versed and up-to-date in the procedure you’re considering. You should ask the surgeons you are considering if they perform the procedure frequently or only occasionally, and when they last performed that procedure. If you needed lumbar back surgery for yourself, you probably wouldn’t choose a surgeon proficient at removing gallbladders. Similarly, you should seek a surgeon for your pet who is an expert in the particular type of surgery being considered.
Do I need a referral from my vet?
At NOAH, referrals are required. Sometimes clients are referred to us by a trusted friend or colleague. Nevertheless, it is important that your primary veterinary practitioner is kept informed. NOAH will communicate directly with the primary care veterinarian and provide a complete written report regarding the care and management of your pet.