Sometimes, a veterinarian appointment doesn’t always go the way you want, and the veterinarian is suggesting a course of action that you don’t feel good about. Other times, your veterinarian will suggest a second opinion or a referral to another veterinarian to help figure out a complicated case. So, when should you get a second opinion for your dog? Here’s what to consider and when you should and shouldn’t seek a second opinion for your dog:

What’s The Difference Between a Second Opinion And a Referral?

Getting a second opinion from a veterinarian can mean one of two things. It can mean, depending on some circumstances, that you may want to consult another veterinarian to see if they have a different opinion on your dog’s medical case. This is something you specifically seek out another vet for.

A second opinion may also mean your veterinarian gets another veterinarian’s opinion on a case or a patient. A referral typically means a patient is transferred to a specialist or another veterinarian by their regular vet. Think of it like your current veterinarian is your general practitioner, and the specialist is like going to see a dermatologist.

There are a few different reasons a dog might be referred to a specialist. Sometimes the patient needs extra or more advanced diagnostic or surgical treatment that isn’t available at their regular veterinarian’s facility. They may also refer a dog to a more advanced expert on a specific condition.

These specialists have spent extra time on specific conditions, meaning they have more experience than a general vet. While vets have a good working knowledge of most conditions, some things like cancer simply require more expertise. Many vets are happy to refer your dog to get the best care.

When Your Vet Recommends a Second Opinion or Makes a Referral

If your veterinarian thinks they need a second opinion from another vet or want to refer your dog to a specialist, they will discuss the options with you. They may also be able to help coordinate any appointments and make sure that any medical history, including test results, is given to the consulting vet or specialist.

When You Want to Get a Second Opinion

If you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to ask around to see if anyone has experience with this other veterinarian or veterinarian specialist. You can also check Google reviews and see if they have any information on their website. These are all things you can do as you choose the right veterinarian.

Is Asking For a Second Opinion OK?

While you may feel awkward asking for a second opinion, there’s nothing wrong with getting a second opinion. Just like you may seek out a second opinion for your own healthcare, sometimes you want that reassurance for your dog. Getting another opinion can help offer peace of mind by confirming the initial diagnosis or can help formulate a better treatment plan.

When Should You Get a Second Opinion From a Veterinarian?

Sometimes, you may feel the need to seek a second opinion, even if your veterinarian hasn’t suggested it. Here’s when to seek a second opinion for your dog:

1. Your dog has received a poor prognosis.
2. The vet is recommending complicated or expensive treatment.
3. Your gut is telling you to.

1. Your Dog Has Received a Poor Prognosis

Unfortunately, sometimes dogs are diagnosed with serious or life-threatening conditions with a poor prognosis. In certain cases, it might be a good idea to seek a second opinion. Sometimes, a different veterinarian or specialist can offer different treatment plans that give your dog a better prognosis or better manage their symptoms.

2. The Vet is Recommending Complicated or Expensive Treatment

In some cases, like cancer, orthopedic abnormalities, or injuries, treatment can be complicated as well as expensive. Getting a second opinion from a different veterinarian or specialist can help formulate a less complicated and hopefully less expensive treatment plan.

However, it’s important to keep veterinarian costs in mind whenever you consider adopting a dog or bringing one home. A healthy dog is not always a guarantee, and some dogs will come with special needs! Even if you do your research and buy from a reputable dog breeder, your dog can still develop health conditions as they age, and accidents can happen that can result in your dog getting injured. Being prepared for the costs of owning a dog is just part of being a responsible pet owner.

3. Your Gut Is Telling You To

Dog owners know their dog better than anyone. Sometimes, you know something is wrong even if preliminary tests don’t reveal anything. If your intuition is telling you to get a second opinion, listen to it.

However, if your veterinarian says your pet says your dog is sick, that is most often the case. You may seek a second opinion to confirm your veterinarian is right or to figure out different treatment options, but the initial diagnosis most likely won’t change that much.

When You Shouldn’t Get a Second Opinion For Your Dog

If your dog is currently experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, getting a second opinion is not advised. The sooner treatment can begin, the better the prognosis is. Trust that your vet will do the best they can, follow their treatment plan, and see how your dog responds. If your dog is stabilized and can go home, but is still experiencing issues, then you can think about consulting another veterinarian.

How to Prepare For a Second Opinion

If you do decide to get a second opinion for your dog, don’t hide it from your regular veterinarian. Being honest is the best policy and may make the second opinion process go more smoothly. They can pass on your dog’s medical information and charts, making it easier for another veterinarian to be well-informed about your dog’s specific needs and medical issues.

If you are scheduling an appointment for a second opinion, make sure to ask what information you should bring along. You should also have a list of questions to ask at your first veterinarian visit. You can get copies of tests or your dog’s chart from your veterinarian. Write down any symptoms or behavior changes to have on hand during your appointment.

If your veterinarian is scheduling the appointment, they most likely will be able to transfer any records electronically, but it might be wise to check and make sure that information was shared.

Hopefully, this answers the question of when you should get a second opinion for your dog. A dog’s health is very important, and as a dog owner, you want the best for them. Getting a second opinion can help determine the right course of action and help you feel confident that you are getting your dog the best treatment.