Veterinary Specialist Referrals
Connecting You to Advanced Care When Your Pet Needs It Most
When your pet needs specialized diagnostics or treatment, River Road Animal Hospital is here to coordinate a vet referral in Wasaga Beach, ON, to a certified veterinary specialist. With over 25 years of service in our community, we’ve built strong relationships with top referral hospitals and board-certified specialists across Ontario, and we’re committed to getting your pet the care they need.
What Is a Veterinary Specialist?
A veterinary specialist is a veterinarian who has completed extensive additional training and certification in a particular area of animal health. These professionals often work in referral hospitals or specialty clinics and focus on complex or advanced cases that go beyond general veterinary care.
Examples of specialties include:
- Internal Medicine
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Dermatology
- Oncology (cancer care)
- Surgery (orthopedic and soft tissue)
- Dentistry and Oral Surgery
- Emergency and Critical Care
- Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy
- Ophthalmology
When your pet requires diagnostic tests or procedures beyond what we can provide in-house, we’ll guide you through the referral process with empathy and clear communication.
How Our Vet Referral Process Works
At River Road Animal Hospital, we make the referral experience as seamless and supportive as possible:
Initial Evaluation
We perform a thorough assessment using our in-house diagnostics (lab testing, digital X-rays, ultrasound) to determine if specialist care is needed.
Referral Coordination
If we believe your pet would benefit from seeing a veterinary specialist, we’ll recommend the appropriate specialty and help coordinate the appointment at a trusted referral center.
Sharing Records
We send all relevant medical records, test results, and images directly to the specialist to ensure continuity of care and prevent delays.
Follow-Up and Support
After your pet’s specialist visit, we stay involved. We review the specialist’s findings, assist with ongoing care, and continue monitoring your pet’s progress here at our clinic.
You’ll never be alone in navigating specialty care — we’re with you and your pet every step of the way.
FAQs About Veterinary Specialist Referrals
How do I know if my pet needs to see a specialist?
If your pet’s condition is not improving, requires advanced diagnostics, or needs a complex procedure, we may recommend referral to ensure the best outcome.
Will I still come to River Road for regular care?
Yes. We continue to provide general care, manage your pet’s follow-up needs, and remain your primary veterinary team — even when a specialist is involved.
Are referrals covered by pet insurance?
Yes, in many cases, though coverage depends on your provider and plan. We’re happy to help provide the documentation needed for your claim.
Collaborative Care, Focused on Your Pet’s Well-being
At River Road Animal Hospital, your pet’s health and comfort come first. Whether we treat them ourselves or connect you to a trusted veterinary specialist, our goal is always the same: to provide exceptional care with heart, honesty, and expertise.
Contact us today to learn more about our veterinary referral process or to schedule a consultation.