How to request a Board-Certified Surgeon

How to Request a Board-Certified Veterinary Surgeon

What Pet Owners Can Expect

When your pet needs surgery, it can feel overwhelming, especially when the procedure is complex or time-sensitive. At West Texas Veterinary Specialists (WTVS), a board-certified veterinary surgeon works closely with your primary veterinarian to provide advanced surgical care right here in West Texas.

Our goal is to make the referral and surgical process clear, supportive, and focused on your pet’s comfort and safety.

Why Might My Pet Need a Board-Certified Surgeon?

Your veterinarian may recommend referral to a board-certified veterinary surgeon when a procedure requires advanced training, specialized equipment, or a higher level of surgical expertise.

Common reasons pets are referred for specialty surgery include:

• Complex soft-tissue surgeries
• Orthopedic injuries or conditions
• Mass removals or tumor surgeries
• Emergency or urgent surgical needs
• Procedures requiring advanced anesthesia planning
• Cases where prior treatment has not resolved the issue

Board-certified surgeons complete extensive additional training beyond veterinary school and general practice to manage these complex cases.

How the Surgical Referral Process Works

Specialty surgical services at WTVS are provided by referral through your primary veterinarian, ensuring coordinated and comprehensive care.

Step 1: Consultation with Your Veterinarian

Your veterinarian will evaluate your pet and determine whether referral to a board-certified surgeon is recommended. They will discuss the reasoning, risks, and expected outcomes with you.

Step 2: Medical Records Are Submitted

Your veterinarian submits your pet’s medical records to WTVS through our secure referral portal so the surgeon can review the case in advance.

Step 3: Surgery Is Scheduled

Once records are reviewed, surgery is scheduled at a partner veterinary hospital where the surgeon is providing services. You’ll receive instructions regarding timing, fasting, and preparation.

Step 4: Surgical Evaluation and Procedure

Your pet is examined by the board-certified surgeon prior to surgery. The procedure is performed with careful attention to anesthesia, pain management, and patient safety.

Step 5: Recovery and Follow-Up

Post-operative findings and care instructions are shared with your primary veterinarian, who remains involved in your pet’s recovery and ongoing care.

What Makes WTVS Surgical Care Different?

West Texas Veterinary Specialists delivers advanced surgical care using a mobile specialty model, bringing board-certified surgery directly into partner clinics across the region.

Benefits for pets and owners include:

• Reduced travel and stress
• Care in a familiar hospital environment
• Faster access to specialty surgery in West Texas
• Close collaboration between your veterinarian and surgeon
• Individualized surgical planning and recovery guidance

This approach allows pets to receive high-level surgical care without leaving their community whenever possible.

How Should I Prepare My Pet for Surgery?

Your veterinary team will provide specific instructions, which may include:

• Fasting before surgery
• Medication adjustments
• Arrival timing and check-in details

If you have questions or concerns prior to surgery, we encourage you to discuss them with your veterinarian so everyone feels prepared.

Compassionate Surgical Care, Close to Home

If your pet has been referred for specialty surgery, know that you are taking an important step toward expert care and thoughtful treatment planning. Our surgical team is committed to clear communication, patient safety, and collaboration with your veterinarian.

West Texas Veterinary Specialists
Advanced surgical expertise. Local collaboration. Trusted care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I contact WTVS directly to schedule surgery?
No. Surgical referrals must be initiated by your primary veterinarian to ensure appropriate case review and continuity of care.
Will my veterinarian still be involved after surgery?
Yes. Your primary veterinarian remains your pet’s main doctor and will manage follow-up care with guidance from the surgeon.
Is surgery performed at WTVS’s own facility?
No. WTVS specialists provide surgical services within partner veterinary hospitals throughout West Texas.