West Texas Veterinary Specialists (WTVS) — Terms of Service & Professional Disclosure

1. Acceptance of Terms

Welcome to the website of West Texas Veterinary Specialists (WTVS). By accessing or using this website (txvetspecialty.com), you agree to comply with and be bound by these Terms of Service (“Terms”) and all applicable laws and regulations.
If you do not agree, please do not use this Site.

2. Purpose of This Website

The information provided by West Texas Veterinary Specialists (WTVS) on this Site is intended solely for general informational and educational purposes.
Nothing on this Site constitutes veterinary medical advice or is intended to replace consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian who maintains a valid Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR).

3. Professional Services and Relationships

  • Internal Medicine Services are provided directly by Kirk Sears, DVM, DACVIM, owner of West Texas Veterinary Specialists.
  • Dr. Sears acts as a consultant to the referring veterinarian and does not establish a direct VCPR with the pet owner.
  • A valid VCPR must exist between the referring veterinarian and the client/patient before any specialty consultation, case review, or teleconsultation can occur.
  • Surgical and Oncology Services are performed in collaboration with independent, board-certified specialists who exercise their own professional judgment.
  • These specialists are independent contractors, not employees or agents of WTVS.
  • Submitting online forms or emails does not establish a VCPR or guarantee acceptance for services.

4. Referral, Consultation & VCPR Policy

  • WTVS works only in collaboration with licensed veterinarians.
  • WTVS specialists comply with Texas Administrative Code §§ 573.9 and 573.24 regarding referral and consultant responsibilities.
  • The referring veterinarian alone establishes and maintains the VCPR.
  • WTVS specialists do not assume or create a VCPR.
  • WTVS provides diagnostics, recommendations, and procedural support; the referring veterinarian manages client communication and treatment decisions.

5. Record-Keeping and Privacy

  • Medical records are maintained following Texas Administrative Code §§ 573.52–573.55.
  • Patient records include owner and patient information, examination findings, diagnostics, and treatments.
  • Records are stored securely for the period required by law.
  • Copies of records may be released upon request by the referring veterinarian or client (administrative fee may apply).
  • Records cannot be released to pet owners without authorization unless required by law.
  • Clients and referring veterinarians will be notified in the event of service relocation or closure.

6. Use of Website and Content

  • All site content (text, graphics, logos, materials) is owned by WTVS or its licensors.
  • You may view, print, or download content for personal, non-commercial use.
  • No reproduction, distribution, or modification is allowed without written permission.

7. Accuracy of Information

WTVS strives to ensure that information on the Site is accurate and current; however, no guarantees are made regarding completeness or reliability.
Information may change without notice.

8. Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, WTVS and its affiliates are not liable for direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of this Site.
Use of the Site is at your own risk.

9. Links to Other Websites

This Site may include third-party links for convenience. WTVS is not responsible for the content, accuracy, or privacy practices of external websites and does not endorse them.

10. Privacy and Data Collection

Personal information submitted through the Site is handled in accordance with Texas laws and internal data protection standards.
Information is used solely for referral communication, record-keeping, and internal operations.

11. Intellectual Property

  • “West Texas Veterinary Specialists,” “WTVS,” the WTVS logo, and related branding elements are trademarks of WTVS.
  • Unauthorized use of these marks is prohibited.

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Texas.
Any disputes must be resolved in the courts of Lubbock County, Texas.

13. Changes to These Terms

WTVS may modify these Terms at any time without notice.
Updated versions will be posted with a new effective date. Continued use of the Site indicates acceptance of the updated Terms.

14. Contact Information

West Texas Veterinary Specialists (WTVS)
Based in Lubbock, Texas — serving clinics across the South Plains, Panhandle, and Permian Basin
Website: https://txvetspecialty.com
Email: info@txvetspecialty.com
Updated: 11/12/2025