Specialized Services

Welcome to the Specialty Department of the Alta Vista Animal Hospital.

Just as you may be referred by your family doctor to a specialist, veterinary patients can also be referred to a veterinary specialist. A specialist does not replace your veterinarian. They work closely with your doctor to assess your pet's condition and develop appropriate strategies for case management.

Specialization in veterinary medicine has matured to the point that pet owners can now have access to the same kind of medical expertise that we have available to us in human medicine.

Our specialists represent a broad cross section of veterinary specialties (both medical and surgical) which enables them to diagnose and treat a wide variety of small animal diseases. They enjoy working together in a collegial atmosphere to best serve you and your pet. With multiple specialists in the same building it enables them to consult with one another and draw from a wealth of expertise and experience to select the most appropriate case management strategy. They, and their whole staff, are committed to recognizing and integrating the human-animal bond in their management of your pet's health concerns.

Our team is comprised of board certified specialists, in the areas of:

• Surgery
• Ophthalmology
• Dentistry
• Internal medicine, including cardiology and oncology

We also have a veterinarian with a special interest in dermatology.

What is a specialist?

Specialist vs. General Practitioner

A board-certified specialist must complete advanced training after receiving their degrees in veterinary medicine.

Residency Program

Potential board-certified doctors complete a residency program in their field of study -- up to an additional 4 years. They receive specific training in their area of specialization, as well as management of caseloads under the supervision of board-certified specialists.

Examination

Once completed, candidates must submit a credentials application and pass an examination in their area of training to obtain "board certification".

More Information

For more information, please visit these websites:

• American College of Veterinary Surgeons
• American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
• American Veterinary Dental College
• American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists

All of our specialists have been board certified in their particular area of specialty, after extensive clinical and academic training for 4-6 years post-graduation as a veterinarian. The path for certification as a specialist by the American Board of Veterinary Specialties varies somewhat but usually involves an internship, residency (3 years), advanced degree (usually a masters level degree), and the publication of appropriate literature and the passing of comprehensive exams. These are individuals who have dedicated themselves to the pursuit of excellence in the treatment of small animal disease and bring to the table many years of clinical experience in managing complex clinical conditions.

Critical Care Unit – Staffed 24/7

Many of our patients require more intensive care, be it recovery from involved surgery or management of complex diseases. We have an area of our hospital dedicated to Critical Care, staffed 24 hours with doctors, veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants. A variety of nursing techniques, patient monitoring and therapies are used in the Critical Care Unit, including general nursing care, fluid therapy, continuous pain management, drug and physical therapies, blood and plasma transfusions, etc. You are welcome to visit your pet during its stay with us by making an appointment with your veterinarian.