Hopline, episode 6: Second opinions from vets
Download or listen to Hopline, episode 6: Second opinions from vets.
Obtaining a second opinion is not an adversarial move and shouldn’t be made into one. Your veterinarian may appreciate the help with a difficult case and may learn a different approach or treatment for your rabbit’s condition. When should you request a second opinion from a veterinarian? How should you prepare for the referral visit?
Visit the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians website for a listing of certified vets.
Here are the 3 steps you should take when seeking a second opinion:
- Research the credentials of the prospective vet.
- Prior to your visit, obtain or have sent directly to the second-opinion vet, a copy of your rabbit’s previous treatments, including:
- physical examination results
- hospitalizations
- lab results
- prescriptions
- X-rays
- ultrasound results
- Bring 2-3 days of your rabbit’s diet — hay, veggies, and pellets — in case your bunny needs to be hospitalized. Having their diet available may also provide a sample to test, if the vet deems this step necessary.
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