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After completing veterinary school, most veterinarians choose to work in general practice and focus their services on preventive and wellness care. Much like your family physician, they are your pet’s primary care doctor and should be visited regularly. Only a small percentage of veterinarians choose to pursue specialization and earn the title of ‘Diplomate,’ also called a board-certified specialist. To receive this designation, after earning a veterinary degree, one must complete an internship, followed by a residency in an accredited specialty program. In addition, the veterinarian must conduct original research that is accepted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal, and pass rigorous examinations.
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When you call to schedule your pet’s first appointment, we will provide you with the fee for the initial examination and consultation. If additional diagnostic tests are recommended, or if surgery is the prescribed treatment, we will provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan including all known costs prior to beginning any definitive care. We are happy to answer all of your questions so that you have the knowledge you need to make the best decisions for your pet.
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Many diagnostic procedures require sedation. Therefore, we ask that you withhold food after 9:00 PM the evening before your pet’s appointment. Feel free to call us at 949.653.9300 to ask if your pet needs to fast for the appointment.
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As with all specialty care, payment is due at the time of service. For your convenience, we accept all major credit cards as well as offer no or low cost payment plans through Care Credit, Wells Fargo Health Advantage, and Scratch. The application process is easy and approval can be obtained within minutes. For more information, please ask one of our client service representatives or visit the respective financing websites using the financing provider website links.
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The best scenario for your pet’s care is to have a team of professionals work together. At Veterinary Surgical Specialists (VSSOC), we work in partnership with primary care veterinarians to care for patients requiring specialized surgical expertise. Most of our patients are referred to us by primary care veterinarians and we communicate closely with them throughout the treatment process, ensuring a smooth continuum of care when your pet returns to their regular veterinarian for ongoing care.
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Absolutely. Your pet is always under the direct supervision of a veterinarian and qualified medical professionals and is never left unattended.