A second opinion is advice from a second expert to make sure the advice from the first expert is correct. We are in a unique position at Rainbow City Pet Clinic, as we have a number of experienced and up-to-date veterinarians who work as a team to provide your pet with the best care possible. We understand the importance of an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan for your fur children. Therefore, our veterinarians constantly work together to plan your pet’s care, effectively providing a second and sometimes third opinion in-house. This team approach increases the likelihood of an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
The veterinarians at Rainbow City Pet Clinic provide a collective knowledge of over 65 years of medical and surgical experience. We also staff a veterinarian with advanced education, making them medical specialists in diagnosing and treating dogs and cats. Rainbow City Pet Clinic can provide you with a second or even third opinion for your ailing pet and offer the peace of mind that you have done everything possible to help your best friend in their time of need. Reputable veterinarians understand the importance of a second opinion and should never take offense at requests for other opinions. Let us help you here with our veterinarians or recommendations for the ideal second-opinion referral to facilities we have worked with for years.
When is a second opinion important?
When the diagnosis is cancer
Having input from another expert makes sense for something as serious as cancer. A cancer diagnosis can be confusing and overwhelming, but it is also a life-changing event for you and your pet. In addition, you may be stunned at our success in treating many cancers in veterinary medicine.
When surgery is recommended
If your pet needs a referral to an outside facility for surgery, that is effectively a second opinion. Our surgeons at Rainbow City Pet Clinic are gifted and could provide you and your pet with that expertise without traveling. But, again, being proactive and gathering more information may help save you and your pet the stress of travel and separation.
When the diagnosis and treatment are unclear
A second opinion is most useful when there is no perfect answer for your pet’s symptoms and you want more input. Even our veterinarians understand the importance of additional views and regularly formally present cases to one another to improve our outcomes for your pet.
Get a second opinion if you are not comfortable with the diagnosis or the recommended treatment. That may be as simple as asking that another of OUR veterinarians be included in your pet’s care. We understand the comfort that this can bring to you and your family.
When the symptoms continue despite treatment
No one knows your pet better than you do, and if their symptoms persist even after treatment, then, it may be time to seek the advice of different veterinarians and specialists. For instance, do not assume that your pet will have to live with chronic pain or be on medications for life. But remember, the only way you will get the treatment that works is if you get the correct diagnosis. At Rainbow City Pet Clinic, we see these second opinions the most for skin diseases in your pets.
When you get the sense that your vet has given up
Having the ability to euthanize and take the life of your pet is a grave responsibility that veterinarians should only consider seriously. Ask for a second opinion before making this decision if you feel your veterinarian has not helped you understand the necessity.
When you want some peace of mind
Sometimes, you seek additional medical advice if your pet is not being diagnosed at all. For example, suppose your veterinarian is dismissive, not curious about understanding what’s going on for a patient, and not willing to do a full workup and dig deeper. In that case, that’s when it’s time to seek a second opinion.
When your pet has been diagnosed with a rare disease
Sometimes diseases are so rare that there is very little research behind them. Because there is so little information available regarding rare diseases and disorders, the risk of misdiagnosis is significant. Let us help you find the right specialists who can treat your pet’s disorder and get their opinion. This will help ensure you get the best treatment possible for your pet’s condition.
How should I ask a veterinarian for a second opinion? Be as direct and unemotional as possible.
Tell the veterinarian that you want an appraisal of the diagnosis you’ve been given and the treatment that’s been proposed. Bring all records, including test results, X-rays, etc., from your original consultation, and our staff can help you gather all of this information before your appointment.
