Before your pet undergoes surgery, ask the questions they can't. As in human medicine, there are many surgeries animals undergo that would benefit from the attention of a specialist. Your pet depends on you to find a veterinarian with sufficient experience and training to perform that surgery. To help you and your pet, there is a network of veterinary surgical specialists ready to provide the special surgical care your pet needs. These specialists are the board-certified members of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS). If your pet needs surgery that is more than “routine,” be sure to ask your veterinarian the following questions:

- How often does the veterinarian perform this type of surgery?

- Does the surgery require special equipment? Is it available?

- Does my pet's surgery require a specialist?

- What should I expect the outcome of the surgery to be?

- What follow-up care is necessary?

 

2. What is a Board Certified Surgeon?

The term "ACVS Diplomate" refers to a veterinarian who has been board certified in veterinary surgery. Only veterinarians who have successfully completed the certification requirements of the ACVS are Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons and have earned the right to be called specialists in veterinary surgery.

Veterinarians wishing to become board certified must complete a three-year residency program, meet specific training and caseload requirements, perform research and have their research published. This process is supervised by current ACVS Diplomates, ensuring consistency in training and adherence to high standards. Once the residency has been completed, the resident must sit for and pass a rigorous examination. Only then does the veterinarian earn the title of ACVS Diplomate.

3. How do I find the right specialist?

No matter what type of orthopedic surgery your pet needs, the most important factor in its success is the surgeon you choose. Although there’s no magic number (of years or procedures) that defines "experience," you should feel comfortable that the surgeon you choose is well versed and up-to-date in the procedure you’re considering. You should ask the surgeons you are considering if they perform the procedure frequently or only occasionally, and when they last performed that procedure. If you needed lumbar back surgery for yourself, you probably wouldn't choose a surgeon proficient at removing gallbladders. Similarly, you should seek a surgeon for your pet who is an expert in the particular type of surgery being considered.

4. Do I need a referral from my vet?

At VOSM, referrals are encouraged but are not required.  Sometimes clients are referred to us by a trusted friend or colleague.  In other cases, clients travel from out of state and their local veterinarian may not be familiar with VOSM.  Nevertheless, it is important that your primary veterinary practitioner is kept informed.  VOSM will communicate directly with the primary care veterinarian and provide a complete written report regarding the care and management of your pet.

5. How soon can my pet be seen by a VOSM surgeon?

We will do our best to accommodate your pet as soon as possible.  Because we are so specialized, we tend to be booked out a few weeks in advance, however, we can arrange earlier appointments through cancellation lists or in the case or emergencies. 

6. How can I manage my pet’s pain while waiting to see the surgeon?

We at VOSM are firm believers in controlling and minimizing the pain of our patients to the greatest extent possible.  With that said, pain management is an integral part of treatment both before and after a surgical procedure.  Pain management options will vary based on the size of your pet, severity of injury and owner and/or veterinarian preference.  We will be happy to make recommendations for you to discuss with your primary care veterinarian when you

schedule your appointment.

7. How much will my pet’s surgery cost?

Your pet’s surgical cost is dependent on the type of surgery, extent of injury and the types of implants and/or the necessary specialized medical equipment needed.  Prices range from $800 for some types of bone biopsies to $5,000 for total hip replacements. There are no surprises when the final bill is presented.  We do this by establishing flat rates for nearly all procedures. Additionally, VOSM accepts all credit cards and can help clients establish accounts with Care Credit, a third-party credit provider, if that option is desired.

8. What kind of results can I expect from my pet after surgery?

At VOSM, we focus our practice on Orthopedic and Sports Medicine. Expertise with the latest research and cutting edge procedures allows us to offer our patients the greatest benefits. Plus, our staff includes board certified veterinary surgeons specializing in veterinary orthopedic surgery and canine rehabilitation therapy, a veterinarian certified in canine rehabilitation and acupuncture, a veterinary sports trainer and a highly-specialized support staff.  Simply put, our comprehensive approach helps to successfully return our patients to the fullest state of wellness possible.