What to Expect at a Specialty Appointment
Knowing what to expect at your first appointment will help make the process more pleasant for both you and your pet.
STEP 1
Before Arriving
Please take the time to fill complete New Patient Form online in advance. The form can also be downloaded and printed out for you to fill out at home. This will make your arrival process efficient and easy.
STEP 2
Meet Your Board-Certified Specialist
A member of our specialist team will review your pet's history and discuss their issues. You can ask any questions you want, and we'll take the time to answer.
STEP 3
Examination, Diagnosis & Treatment
Once your pet has been assessed, we will provide you with a diagnosis and options for treatment. Your veterinary specialist will work with you to determine a treatment plan for your pet.
After your visit, we will also contact your primary care veterinarian and provide a detailed written report about your appointment and treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions at Newtown Veterinary Specialists.
If you don't see the answer to your question below or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact us.
- Should I see a specialist?
Just as your primary care doctor may refer you to a specialist, your family veterinarian may determine that your dog or cat would benefit from the expertise of a veterinary specialist. Specialists, such as cardiologists and oncologists, can often diagnose specific conditions more rapidly and accurately. They can also provide a second opinion or confirm a previous diagnosis. They can prescribe or adjust treatment regimens to help achieve the best possible health outcome for your pet.
- How is a specialist different from a primary care veterinarian?
As in human medicine, veterinary specialists have expertise in one specific area. In order to become specialists, they must undergo extensive training, including an internship and residency, develop a research project and have the findings published in medical journals. They must also complete rigorous exams. Only then have they earned their credentials as board-certified specialists and will be referred to as Diplomates of either the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, the American College of Veterinary Radiology, or the American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care.
- Do I need an appointment to see a specialist?
Yes, you need to make an appointment for a specialist appointment. Please contact us here. Specialist appointments are available between the hours of 8:00 A.M.- 6:00 P.M. Referrals from your primary vet are required to see a specialist.
- Do I need an appointment for an emergency?
No. But if possible you can call us in advance so we’ll be advised of your arrival. We’re open for emergency services 24-hours-a-day, even on major holidays.
- Will my pet be left alone during an overnight hospital stay?
Your pet will never be left unattended. We are staffed 24/7/365. We have outstanding doctors and a dedicated nursing staff committed to providing the best possible around-the-clock care for your pet.
- How will I be kept informed of my pet’s condition if they have to stay overnight?
While your pet is with us, our experienced veterinarians and dedicated technicians will keep you informed every step of the way. A doctor will contact you every morning, usually after 10:00 A.M., after they have checked on your pet.
- How will my family veterinarian know about my pet’s visit to NVS?
We work in close cooperation with your family veterinarian to help ensure seamless care and your pet’s long-term health. To that end, we will promptly send a copy of your pet’s complete medical records, including all test results, treatments and medications administered at our facility.
- Will I need to take my pet to another location for diagnostic testing?
No. Our in-house digital x-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and laboratory services help save valuable time and facilitate accurate diagnosis. By providing this many diagnostic services under one roof, in most cases, we’re able to significantly reduce travel and stress for you and your pet.
- What types of payment options are available?
Payment in full is expected at the time services are provided or upon discharge of your pet. We accept payment by cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express. Please note a 75% deposit of the high-end of the estimate is required upon admittance.
- Are there payment plans available for my pet’s care?
We are proud to offer CareCredit and Scratchpay as financing options. They both offer an easy application process that will give you results in minutes. Please note a 75% deposit of the high-end of the estimate is required upon admittance.
- Will I be provided with an estimate of costs?
We will provide a good-faith estimate of the cost of our services before pet treatment, however, unforeseen circumstances may arise that influence your final bill.
We will always discuss our written estimate with all clients before they leave our facility, and require a deposit based on our estimate prior to any further treatment.
- Can you help with my pet insurance?
We’re happy to help you complete pet insurance forms for your pet’s visit.
- What if I can’t make my appointment?
If you’re not able to make your scheduled appointment, please call us as soon as possible so that we may give that time slot to another pet that needs our care. Our Client Service Representatives will assist you in re-scheduling your appointment.
Pet Owner Resources
Here are some helpful links for your pet's health.
Patient Forms
Fill out our Patient Forms before your appointment.