Speak out

"What cases do you most commonly refer to specialists?"

"I refer disc disease dogs that need surgery, all hip replacements and glaucoma patients. The practice sees a lot of dogs with bad hips and performs cruciates but not total hip replacements. It's better to refer patients that need MRIs. We have a choice; 20 years ago we did not."

– Dr. Traci Duncanson

Sanford Animal Hospital, Cameron, N.C.

"I refer cruciate repairs to a local board-certified doctor. He uses the TPLO method that I think is most effective."

– Dr. Nancy Fox

Rockville Road Animal Hospital

Indianapolis

"I most commonly refer dogs with dermatology problems related to allergies. These cases are referred because the pet's problems will be able to get a more complete workup."

– Dr. Molly Flaherty

Barrington Animal Hospital

Barrington. Ill.

"We refer all oncology cases to local specialists. Oncologists have state-of-the-art techniques and equipment that can better serve those specific cases."

– Dr. Carol Popolow

Croton Animal Hospital

Croton on Hudson, N.Y.