It will usually be our own vet who suggests a referral. Now, most vets recognise that specialist help may be valuable in sorting out your pet's skin problem, and a good relationship exists all round. However, since the idea of specialists and referral is relatively new in the veterinary profession, not all General Practitioner vets think about referring, and some clients approach us directly. This is fine, but before I can see a case, I must have a referral letter, or case notes, from your own vet.

In some situations this may seem to be a cause of embarrassment if the owner is unhappy with the actions of their own veterinary practice. Actually this is very rarely a problem. Many of the rpactices in the West Country do refer cases, not only to me, but to specialists in other fields also.

Sorting out a difficult medical case requires a partnership between the referring practice, the specialist and, of course, you, the pet owner - but yopur pet is the most important character!. After each consultation I write a formal report for your vet, and you receive a copy too, ensuring that everyone has the same information.

Dr. Chesney with patient and client