By Ken Byrer

Every pet owner knows they have a responsibility for the happiness and health of their furry companions, and how the first often relies on the second. As much as the fuzzballs may panic or protest a trip to the vet, regular medical checkups are as essential to their health as going to the human doctor is for ours — or more so, given the differences in our lifespans. Yet many aspects of human and animal health parallel each other. For example, there may come a time when a general practice vet cannot address a complicated medical condition or does not feel comfortable doing so. Just like when people encounter that problem, pet parents may need a specialist.

What Does “Specialist’ Mean, Exactly?

Humans typically have a general practitioner (GP) do routine maintenance and monitoring. When the GP spots something worthy of more attention, they often send us to specialists. Veterinary medicine works the same way.

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) describes the situation. “Veterinary specialists have had additional education and training in a specific field of veterinary medicine,” explained Paige Andersen, DVM, Managing Partner of TimberCreek Veterinary Hospital. “They have the knowledge, skillset, and specialized equipment to handle complex cases and procedures that may not be available in general practice.”

A Texas A&M discussion of this topic notes that bringing in a specialist is not the end of the regular vet’s job but an extension of it. “Board-certified veterinarians collaborate very closely with the primary care veterinarian, who saw the animal first and, therefore, has a deeper understanding of the pet’s history and diagnostics and treatments already performed and response to that treatment,” Dr. Stacy Eckman, associate dean for hospital operations and chief executive officer for the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences’ Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, said. “Specialists consult with them throughout the process, and when the pet is stable, they often return care back to the primary veterinarian.”

Chances are there is a professional for whatever ailment a GP vet detects. Veterinary Healthcare Associates lists numerous specialists, including dentists, nutritionists, pathologists, physical therapists, ophthalmologists, toxicologists, and breeding experts.  The American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA) recognizes 22 veterinary specialty organizations “comprising 48 distinct AVMA-recognized veterinary specialties” enrolling more than 16,500 veterinarians. The AMVA is the professional body that certifies veterinary specialists.

When Will You Need a Specialist?

Your regular vet will likely find the problems that indicate the need for a specialist. Routine checkups and monitoring changes in behavior can reveal underlying issues. Charlotte Animal Referral & Emergency lists the top reasons pet parents turn to specialists: complex or chronic illnesses that do not respond to initial or typical treatments; when the patient needs an X-ray, MRI, CT scan, or other medical imaging; a pet that needs orthopedic, spinal, or other specialized surgery; cancer treatment where diagnosed or suspected; and for neurological issues.

The job seekers’ perspective may indicate the specialty services most likely to be needed by consumers. Veterinary Recruiting and Staffing says the most in demand specialties are radiology (X-ray, MRI, and CT scans), cardiology, internal medicine, surgery, neurology, and ophthalmology. According to veterinarian support company Otto, ophthalmology pays (suggesting it therefore costs more or is more commonly required) the highest while veterinary radiologists make the least among specialists.

How to find a Specialist

The AMVA notes that “the most common way that clients find a specialist for their animals’ health issues is by referral to a specialist from their own veterinarian.” Sometimes, however, a pet parent may wish to do their own research based on the desire for a second opinion, wanting to establish basic understanding of the professional situation, or some other motivation. AMVA has an FAQ on vet specialists providing solid, basic information about their role in pet treatment.

The American Board of Veterinary Practitioners has a searchable database to find a specialist by type and proximity. The AAHA mentioned previously maintains a site to identify the kind of care needed and links to the group overseeing those practitioners, often with further links to a searchable database. In the modern age, it has never been easier to find a vet and their specialty, credentials, and standing.

Cost Concerns

More specialist utilization arises from more pet parents having pet insurance, according to Today’s Veterinary Business. They say, “While escalating costs are demonstrably impacting the ability of non-insured pet owners to access care readily … an undeniably positive countertrend has emerged: Insured pet owners are increasingly seeking and utilizing specialized veterinary services …. [D]ata scientists found that despite economic shifts, insured owners have consistently accessed specialty veterinary medicine for their pets, often having to pay only a small fraction of the care’s invoice …. While insured pet owners can increasingly access advanced treatments, a significant portion of them face growing financial barriers that impact their ability to provide optimal care.”

The actual dollar cost varies widely based on the type of specialist needed. CareCredit, a credit card company for paying vet bills, compiled information on the costs of care. Its site estimates advanced procedures such as canine colon cancer treatment ($5,351) or feline cancer therapy ($3,980) can present a serious challenge to any budget.

Truly incredible treatments can now help our animal friends. To access these possibilities, pet parents need to think ahead and have a plan to finance advanced medicine when and if needed, as we would for any other loved family member. Options here have also increased, with specialized credit cards and pet insurance joining the old approach of simply building a cash reserve. With preparation, options for pet medical care can enrich and extend the lives of our animal friends.

About the Author: Ken Byrer is a writer living in North Ridge.