FAQs

What is a Specialist?

An officially recognised veterinary Specialist is an individual who has had advanced training leading to Diploma status in their field of expertise and who also fulfils other stringent criteria, such as involvement in clinical work and research, as well as other responsibilities including the training of others involved in the veterinary profession. Specialist veterinary status is extremely difficult to achieve and maintain, and it is the highest level of recognition of expertise that can be attained in clinical veterinary work.

As well as offering continuing education to other members of our profession, our vets regularly attend scientific meetings in order to keep up-to-date in their specific fields of expertise. Many have national and international reputations and most have written scientific papers, published in text books and regularly speak at local, national and international meetings.

Why choose Southfields Veterinary Specialists for my pet?

Southfields Veterinary Specialists (formerly VRCC) was established in 2002 by Dr Susan North to provide the very best care, by the most highly trained specialists, utilising the very latest techniques and equipment not readily available elsewhere. We have many ‘firsts’ to our credit and lead the way in many areas, including the treatment of cancer in dogs and cats.

Our team are professional, friendly and dedicated to providing the highest levels of patient care, along with clear explanations and support for pet owners at what can be a very stressful time.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Your vet should supply us with a letter of referral giving details of your pet’s relevant history and a brief summary of the problem.  They may ask you to bring this with you, or they may use our online referral form or send the details by fax, post or email in advance of the appointment – please check with your vet regarding the arrangements that have been made for your pet in this regard.

You should bring any X-rays, scans or other information that your vet may have supplied.

It is helpful to have made some brief notes about your pet’s history e.g. dates of events and any signs of problems which you have noticed, as our vet will ask you questions about this during your consultation.  In addition, it may be useful to make a list of your own queries or concerns which you can check at the end of your consultation, to make sure that we have addressed them all for you.

You should bring any relevant insurance documentation, including a blank claims form.  You will also need to bring a means of payment.

Will my pet have to be admitted?

It may be necessary for your pet to be admitted for treatment and/or close observation and monitoring overnight or longer so please prepare for this. During your pet’s stay, the Specialist will keep you updated daily on any changes in your pet’s condition or test results.

Who will look after my pet during the night?

Our in-patient care is exceptional and your pet will be supervised by fully qualified, trained veterinary and nursing staff 24 hours a day, including weekends and Bank Holidays.

Can I visit my pet?

We understand that you may wish to come and visit your pet whilst they are staying with us. Our visiting hours are Monday to Friday 2.00pm-6.00pm and during the weekend, visiting hours are 2.00pm-4.00pm.

All visits must be made with prior permission and arrangement with the nursing staff, so please contact us prior to attending.

Circumstances vary with each case, however, on occasion, it will be our advice that visiting your pet may cause further distress or interfere with their recovery period. As we are an emergency facility, we may need to decline a visit request due to our critically ill patients, who are obviously our priority.