A referral means your primary care veterinarian believes your pet would benefit from specialized expertise, advanced diagnostics, or treatment beyond what a general practice typically provides. 

But a referral isn't a handoff. It's a collaborative approach to your pet's care. We work closely with your primary veterinarian throughout the process to keep everyone informed and your pet's treatment connected.

Yes. Most specialty services require a referral from your primary veterinarian. Your veterinarian will typically send us your pet's medical records and help begin the referral process. Not sure where to start? Our veterinary team is happy to answer your questions and help guide you through the process.

Absolutely. Think of Swiftcurrent Veterinary Specialists as an extension of your primary veterinarian's care team, not a replacement. We'll keep your regular veterinarian informed throughout your pet's specialty care. Once specialty treatment is complete, your primary veterinarian can resume ongoing management whenever appropriate.

If your pet's medical records haven't already been sent to us, please bring them with you. It's also helpful to bring other information the veterinary team may need:

• A current list of medications and supplements.
• Any relevant medical records, imaging, or test results.
• Information about your pet's current symptoms or changes you've noticed.
• Details about any behavioral quirks or special handling needs. Knowing how your pet prefers to be handled can help us make their visit as comfortable and low-stress as possible.

Plan for more time than you might for a typical veterinary appointment. Most first-time specialty consultations take approximately 60–90 minutes. This allows our veterinary team time to better understand your pet’s medical history and specific needs:

• Review your pet's medical history
• Perform a thorough physical examination
• Discuss your concerns and goals
• Explain potential diagnostic or treatment options
• Answer your questions
• Determine the next steps

Appointments may take longer when same-day diagnostic testing is needed.

Your first visit is about getting a complete picture of your pet's health and determining the best path forward. During your visit, your veterinarian will work with you to collect vital information and to allow time for any of your questions:

• A detailed review of your pet's history.
• A comprehensive physical examination.
• Discussion of recommended diagnostics or treatment options.
• Clear explanations of what each option means.
• Time to ask questions and discuss next steps.

Our goal is for you to leave with a better understanding of your pet's condition and the information you need to make informed decisions about their care.

Yes. Before we move forward with diagnostics or treatment, we'll review a detailed cost estimate and available options with you. We believe in transparent communication and want you to understand the expected costs before making decisions about your pet's care.

We understand how important your pet is to you, and we want to preserve that connection whenever possible. For hospitalized patients, visiting is available whenever it is safe and won't interfere with your pet's treatment or recovery. Our veterinary team will communicate with you about when and how you can visit while keeping your pet's medical needs the priority.

Before you leave, we'll make sure you understand what comes next.

• Clear discharge instructions.
• A summary of the care provided.
• Information about medications, follow-up care, and monitoring.
• Guidance on when to contact us if concerns arise.

We'll also communicate with your primary veterinarian so your pet's care remains connected and consistent after they return home.