• What is a Referral? | Pet Owners | Cave Veterinary Specialists

In the same way your GP can refer you to a consultant at a hospital, your vet might refer your pet to us for specialist-led investigation or treatment. With experts in specific fields and more specialised equipment and facilities, we are better placed to diagnose and treat the most challenging and complex cases.

What is a Specialist?

Our Veterinary Specialists are acknowledged as experts in their fields.  To achieve Specialist status our vets have had many years of advanced training leading to Diploma status.  Specialist status is the highest level of recognition of expertise that can be achieved within the industry.  As well as advanced training, our Specialists support the wider veterinary community with ongoing clinical work and research.  As well as producing clinical and scientific papers our Specialists provide training and development for others in the profession.  Our Specialist vets have national and international reputations for their work, and regularly speak at conferences and meetings around the world. 

Their skills and knowledge enable them to deliver a detailed diagnosis of your pet’s problem and then offer the best course of treatment. 

Why Choose Cave?

Along with our skilled and dedicated team of vets and nurses, our state-of-the-art facilities enable us to tackle the most complex and challenging cases.

We have Specialists in multiple discipline.  By working together, we can deal with the most complex cases that require the involvement of different teams.  This holistic approach delivers better patient care and outcomes.

Continuity of Care

Throughout the process we will liaise closely with you and your vet, to ensure your pet receives the best possible treatment and care.

24/7 Veterinary and Nursing Care

We provide around-the-clock veterinary and nursing care for inpatients, 365 days a year.  Our multidisciplinary team are available to support with any routine, urgent or emergency cases and can accept referrals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  Your pet's well-being is our top priority.

Personal and tailored care

What is right for one patient or owner may not be the same for another. That's why we advise every client through the full range of diagnostic and treatment options available to suit their pet’s condition.  We consider those options in the context of any medical, logistical or other considerations that will influence our shared decision-making.

We understand that the referral process can be a stressful time for pet owners. At Cave we provide not only clinical excellence but also personal care, ensuring that you and your pet receive the support you need during what can be a challenging time.

By working in partnership with vets and owners, we always strive to find the best course of action for you and your pet.

Picturesque Location

Situated in a relaxed rural setting, just 5 minutes from Jct 26 of M5, our state-of-the-art hospital allows us to offer unrivalled care to patients.  Our beautiful rural location, with views of the Blackdown Hills, provides a calm environment for both pets and owners.

Arranging a referral

If your pet needs to be referred, this should be discussed with your primary care vet. They can then contact us on your behalf, and once we have received the referral, we will call you to arrange an appointment.

If your pet needs to be seen urgently, your vet will need to telephone us in order to arrange the appointment for you. Your vet may wish to discuss your pet’s case with us by telephone before making a decision. Often, we will receive any X-rays, scan results and lab reports to assist us in making our diagnosis.

For more information about our services please contact us at 01883 741440 to speak with one of our Client Care team. For details of what is involved in the referral process please click here