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 you can submit your question online on our Contact Us page.
What is a board-certified specialist?
To become a specialist, one must obtain a four-year veterinary degree (DVM or VMD) and then pursue additional training in an accredited program. 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 difficult, 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 & Dog Surgeries 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 needs advanced care.
Do I need a referral from my family veterinarian to see a specialist at VSRC?
No, but working with you and your family veterinarian as a healthcare team offers the best opportunity to restore the health and well-being of your pet. After our expertise is no longer needed, you will return to your 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 dentals or other services your primary care veterinarian is best to provide.
Are you available to provide second opinions?
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. In addition, your veterinarian will send over related medical records and you may be asked to bring X-rays or other test results along with your pet to your first visit. Please note that your pet must have an up-to-date rabies vaccine.
You may complete new patient forms online prior to your arrival.
How much do your services cost?
We are happy to give quotes of ranges of fees for common procedures over the phone prior to the initial visit, and a written detailed quote after we have examined your pet. There are however, many details that are taken into consideration for each procedure, so it is important to understand that without examining your pet and reviewing current lab work, X-rays, and the medical history, we are providing you with only an estimate of services necessary for proper care and treatment. 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 care givers, 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.
