FAQs
You have questions. We have answers.
What does it mean to be a Board Certified Veterinary Specialist (Diplomate)?
Simply put, the term Diplomate refers to a veterinarian who has earned board certification in a particular veterinary specialty. Only veterinarians who have successfully completed post-graduate requirements of a particular specialty college can be considered Diplomates. Veterinarians wishing to become board certified must complete an internship and then a two to three-year residency program, meet specific training and caseload requirements, conduct original research and then have it published. This process is supervised by current Diplomates, ensuring consistency in training and adherence to high standards. Once the residency has been completed, the resident must sit for and pass a rigorous examination. Only then does the veterinarian earn the title of Diplomate.
What Should I Expect On My First Visit?
Please plan on arriving 10 minutes early for your first visit to complete paperwork with our receptionist. This can also be completed prior to arrival if you wish to print it out by clicking on the link for New Patient Form for Clients (link is external). Our referral coordinator will contact your family veterinarian after scheduling your pet’s consultation to request your pet’s medical history, lab work, and x-rays. Our veterinary specialists familiarize themselves with the information they receive from your family veterinarian prior to your consultation. Some hospitals are able to send us x-ray images electronically, others are not. Our referral coordinator will work with you and your family veterinarian to ensure that your pets x-rays are available to us. You many need to pick up your pet’s x-rays at your family veterinarian prior to your scheduled consultation time. If so, we will let you know. Working with our referral coordinator will help ensure a successful consultation for your pet.
Deciding On A Treatment Plan
The doctor will recommend and discuss treatment options with you. Our goal is to create a plan that works well for you and your family, and provides the best possible outcome for your pet. The doctor will assist you in your decision-making, ensuring all of your questions are answered thoroughly. A detailed treatment plan of each option will be provided so that you are fully informed of related costs and have the knowledge you need to make the right decision for your pet.
How Will My Veterinarian Be Kept Informed About My Pet?
Our goal is to keep you completely informed about your pet’s condition and progress. We will also communicate with your family veterinarian regarding findings, recommendations and treatment of your pet’s condition.
What Are My Options For Payment?
Payment for your initial consultation along with any tests, procedures or medications is due after you have discussed and agreed upon on a written treatment plan with the doctor. For extended hospital stays, treatment plans will be updated daily and additional payment will be requested at that time. Payment options include cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and CareCredit.
Where do I find information online regarding Animal Poison Control and poisonous plants?
The ASPCA toxic plant list contains names and photos of plants that have been reported as having negative effects on animals. We are providing the ASPCA link to assist you in identifying poisonous plants that your pet may have been exposed to. Please understand that this service is not intended as a method of providing a definitive diagnosis for your pet. The ASPCA site also includes a 24-hour emergency poison hotline telephone number. Be aware that the ASPCA does charge a phone consultation fee, however, the information you gain from the consultation is valuable and may be used in the treatment of your pet. The Animal Poison Control Center may refer you to your local animal emergency hospital to seek treatment for your pet. If you think your pet may have been exposed to or ingested toxic materials, please call AMCS at (206) 204-3366.
What is Interventional Oncology?
In human medicine, interventional radiologists routinely work intimately with oncologists to provide innovative, minimally invasive options for their patients. A similar trend has recently begun in Veterinary medicine to provide multimodal therapies along with surgeons and oncologists forming a comprehensive oncology team for our patients. Interventional oncology can help provide minimally invasive options with low morbidity for patients who have historically had limited options.
What is Mechanical Ventilation?
The Animal Medical Center of Seattle utilizes mechanical ventilation to perform some or all of the work of breathing for patients that present in imminent respiratory failure. There are many reasons a pet may present in respiratory failure, including trauma or neurological disease. Regardless of the reason, patients requiring mechanical ventilation are in need of urgent intervention. Manual ventilation can only be performed for short period of time, whereas mechanical ventilation can be used as long as necessary and can be a lifesaving option for your pet. Our highly skilled veterinarians and nurses are trained on how to utilize and properly care for pets who require long-term care on a ventilator.
If you have questions about mechanical ventilation, please contact our Emergency department.