How to Request our Internal Medicine Specialist

How to Request a Veterinary Specialist

What Pet Owners Can Expect

Hearing that your pet may need a veterinary specialist can feel overwhelming. At West Texas Veterinary Specialists (WTVS), our goal is to make the process as clear, supportive, and stress-free as possible for both you and your pet.

We work in partnership with your primary care veterinarian to provide advanced internal medicine, surgery, and oncology consultations right here in West Texas.

Why Might My Pet Need a Specialist?

Your veterinarian may recommend a specialist when your pet’s condition is complex, ongoing, or requires advanced diagnostics or procedures. Common reasons pets are referred include:

• Chronic vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss
• Abnormal bloodwork or imaging findings
• Hormonal or endocrine disease such as diabetes or Cushing’s disease
• Persistent pain or lameness
• Masses or suspected cancer
• Conditions not responding as expected to initial treatment

A specialist provides focused expertise to help clarify a diagnosis and create the most effective treatment plan.

How the Referral Process Works

Because specialty care is collaborative, referrals to WTVS always begin with your primary veterinarian.

1. Talk with your veterinarian.
   If your veterinarian feels a specialist consultation would benefit your pet, they will discuss the recommendation with you and answer initial questions.
2. Medical records are submitted.
   Your veterinarian submits your pet’s medical records to WTVS through our secure referral portal, allowing our specialists to review your pet’s history in advance.
3. The consultation is scheduled.
   Once records are received, scheduling is coordinated through the hosting veterinary clinic where the specialist will be seeing patients. You will receive details on timing and what to expect.
4. Your pet is evaluated.
   Your pet is examined by a board-certified veterinary specialist, and advanced diagnostics are performed as needed.
5. Results and ongoing care.
   Findings and recommendations are shared with your primary veterinarian, who remains involved in your pet’s ongoing care. You will receive clear explanations and next steps.

What Makes WTVS Different?

West Texas Veterinary Specialists use a mobile specialty care model, meaning our specialists travel to partner veterinary hospitals across the region.

Benefits for pets and pet owners include:

• Less travel and reduced stress for your pet
• Care provided in a familiar clinic environment
• Faster access to specialty services in West Texas
• Close collaboration between specialists and your primary veterinarian

This approach allows pets to receive advanced care without leaving their community whenever possible.

What Should I Bring to the Appointment?

In most cases, your veterinarian will send everything we need. You may be asked to:

• Bring your pet on a leash or in a carrier
• Follow fasting instructions if provided
• Be available to discuss your pet’s history and current concerns

Your care team will let you know if anything specific is required before the visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I contact WTVS directly to request an appointment?
Specialty consultations must be initiated by your primary veterinarian so we can work together as a coordinated care team.

Do I need a referral to see an internal medicine specialist?
Yes. All internal medicine consultations and procedures provided by West Texas Veterinary Specialists are referral-based and coordinated through your primary veterinarian.

How do I see an internal medicine specialist?
Your primary veterinarian determines whether an internal medicine consultation or advanced diagnostics are appropriate and submits the referral to West Texas Veterinary Specialists on your behalf.

Where does the internal medicine consultation take place?
West Texas Veterinary Specialists provides mobile specialty services at participating veterinary hospitals, allowing pets to receive advanced care at their primary veterinarian’s clinic.

Will I get answers the same day?
In many cases, preliminary findings can be discussed on the day of the visit. Some diagnostics require additional time, and results are shared with your veterinarian as soon as they are available.

Who manages my pet’s long-term care?
Your primary veterinarian remains your pet’s main doctor. WTVS provides consultation, diagnostics, and specialty procedures as needed.

We’re Here to Help

If your veterinarian has recommended a specialty consultation, know that you are taking an important step toward clarity and care. Our team is committed to providing thoughtful, compassionate expertise while supporting both you and your veterinarian throughout the process.

West Texas Veterinary Specialists
Advanced care. Local collaboration. Clear guidance.