Pet Parents
What is a Specialist?
A veterinary specialist is a veterinarian who has become board-certified in an area of special interest within the field of veterinary medicine. Most specialists have done at least four additional years of study; a one-year internship and a three-year residency. In order to become board-certified, the individual has studied and passed a rigorous test in their area of specialization after completing their training.
What is an Emergency?
A veterinary emergency is a medical problem with your pet that requires immediate veterinary consultation and/or treatment. Examples include: severe bleeding and lacerations, choking, difficulty breathing, nonstop coughing and gagging, bleeding from orifices, inability to urinate/defecate, eye injuries, toxin ingestion such as chocolate, allergic reactions, seizures or staggering, fractured bones, and more. If you are worried about your pet’s condition, a call to the emergency veterinary clinic for guidance is recommended.
FAQs
Veterinarians wishing to become board certified must complete a three-year residency program, meet specific training and caseload requirements, have completed and published research and pass a rigorous examination. This process is supervised by current board certified specialists, ensuring consistency in training and adherence to high standards.
Your pet’s veterinarian may recommend referral to a veterinary specialist based on your pet’s medical condition.
As a primary referral facility, our specialty practices see appointments by referral only. Please see the individual practices for hours of operation. The Anne Arundel Veterinary Emergency Clinic in Annapolis and the Pet-ER in Towson and Columbia are available for emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with no appointment necessary. Please bring a copy of your pet’s pertinent records and x-rays, as well as the referral form for all new appointments.