Second Opinions and Referrals

Valley Vets are happy to see second opinions from other veterinary practices. However, it is a professional requirement that we contact the client’s previous vets for the clinical history up to that point. For this reason we will ask for the previous vet’s details so that we may obtain relevant notes before our first examination. It is imperative that clients co-operate with us in this matter. Without this information we may chose a medication that might interact with one previously used, causing problems to your pet. Also, we would not want to put a patient through diagnostic tests unnecessarily in instances where those tests have been previously performed. There is a small additional charge on top of the normal consult fee for organising second opinion consultations.

We are aware that some of our clients may wish to seek a second opinion at another veterinary practice from time to time. We are happy to forward all relevant clinical notes and laboratory test results directly to the instructed vet. There is no charge for this service.  Film radiographs ( X rays ) that may have been taken as part of a case always remain the property of the Company; we will, however, provide our interpretation of them to the newly instructed veterinary practice. If digital radiographic images have been obtained, these will be forwarded directly to the new vet.

Clients may on occasions wish to read the clinical notes pertaining to their pet. We are happy for any client to make an appointment to view the relevant notes with a member of staff on hand to help interpret the medical abbreviations used.

Client and patient information will not be released to any third party without the prior written consent of the client.

There are occasions when our veterinary team will advise a client to attend a specialist centre for a referral appointment. Some medical and surgical conditions are beyond our expertise as general practitioner vets and necessitate referral to specialists in a particular area of expertise. We will help arrange these appointments and organise directions, clinical notes, laboratory results, radiographs and a referral letter. There is a small charge for this service.