FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Please view our FAQ below. If you have a question that is not answered on this page, please call us at (518) 887-2260 or visit our Contact Us page for more methods to reach out to our team.
What is a board-certified specialist?
A board-certified specialist is a veterinarian who has pursued additional training and credentials after earning their veterinary degree. This typically includes a one-year internship, followed by a two to three-year residency in a particular medical discipline. Competition to be accepted into a residency training program can be quite challenging, therefore only those with the highest academic achievement gain entry. In addition to the clinical training, a veterinarian must also publish original research in a refereed journal and pass a series of rigorous examinations to earn this designation.
What’s the difference between my pet’s regular veterinarian and the specialists at VSRC?
As board-certified specialists, we focus solely on our areas of expertise – cat and dog surgery and diagnostic imaging. Your primary care veterinarian is skilled at general wellness and preventive care, treating common chronic and acute conditions, providing annual check-ups and vaccinations, and working closely with pet owners on how to feed, exercise, and groom their furry family members. We proudly partner with general veterinarians across the region when one of their patients can benefit from advanced care.
Do I need a referral from my family veterinarian to see a specialist at VSRC?
No, you do not need a referral to see a specialist at VSRC, but working with you and your family veterinarian as a healthcare team provides the best opportunity to restore the health and well-being of your pet. After our specific expertise is no longer needed, you will return to your primary care veterinarian for follow-up care. VSRC acts as an extension of your veterinarian’s practice to provide specialty care only when needed. VSRC does not offer vaccines, routine dental care, or other services your family veterinarian is best to provide.
Are you available to provide second opinions?
Absolutely. We welcome an opportunity to meet you and your pet and discuss our recommendations.
How do I make an appointment?
Please call (518) 887-2260 to schedule an initial consultation. At that time, we will provide you with all the information you need to help you prepare for your visit. We will request that your veterinarian send over related medical records prior to your first visit. Please note that your pet must have an up-to-date rabies vaccine.
You may complete a new patient form online prior to your arrival.
How much do your services cost?
We will create a customized treatment plan for your pet based on our findings and recommendations for optimal care. Rest assured that part of our service is to help guide you through this process and empower you to make decisions that are right for your pet. We’re not just caregivers, but pet lovers too.
In addition to accepting CareCredit, for those with pet insurance, we are happy to assist with forms you need to submit for reimbursement. We also accept cash, checks and credit cards.
How do I help my pet with recovery after surgery?
Always refer to the discharge instructions that our veterinary technician reviewed with you when you picked up your pet.
Is swelling and bruising normal after surgery?
Some redness, bruising, and swelling are expected after any surgical procedure. The appearance may worsen over the first 3-4 days before gradually resolving by 1 week after surgery. You may apply a cool compress to the area for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times daily to help reduce bruising and swelling.
My pet has not defecated since coming home from surgery, should I be concerned?
It is not abnormal that your pet has not defecated upon returning home. Typically, your pet should have a normal bowel movement 5 – 7 days post-op. You can add a tablespoon of canned pumpkin to each meal to help return to support digestion.
Do we have to keep the e-collar on at all times?
You can remove your pet’s e-collar and release the sling to make your pet more comfortable when urinating/defecating. Be sure to use the sling when going into the house and put the e-collar back on.
Do I need to use the e-collar if I have the Lick Sleeve on?
We highly recommend that you put your pet’s e-collar on any time you do not have direct supervision over your pet. This includes when you leave the house, at bedtime, or any time you may take a nap with your pet.
I am running out of medications, should I get more?
Our surgeons typically prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, pain medications, and antibiotics for a two-week course post-surgery. If you feel your pet needs those medications for more than two weeks, please call our office to speak with your surgeon.
When can my pet have a bath?
For TPLO/TTA and other orthopedic surgery patients, our surgeons will take radiographs 8 weeks post-op to ensure the bone has healed. During this visit, you should discuss when your pet can go be bathed or go to the groomer.
Soft tissue surgery patients should discuss bathing and grooming with the surgeon during the suture removal appointment.
