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What to Expect at VCSG in Chattanooga, TN

Thank you for choosing Veterinary Care and Specialty Group for your pet’s specialty appointment! We’re honored to be part of your pet’s care team. Our specialists work closely with your primary care veterinarian to ensure your pet receives the highest standard of care.

Below, you’ll find helpful information about what to expect from our specialty services and the referral process. If you have any questions or would like further clarification, we’re always happy to help—just let us know!

The Referral Process

Your primary care veterinarian will begin the referral process by submitting a referral form through our website, selecting the appropriate specialty department for your pet’s needs. Once submitted, the form is sent directly to our Referral Coordinators.

After we receive the referral, our team will review the information. If any additional medical records or diagnostics are needed, our Referral Coordinators will follow up with your primary care veterinarian. If everything is in order, we will contact you directly to schedule a New Consultation appointment.

During scheduling, the Referral Coordinator will collect the specialist’s exam fee as a deposit to secure your appointment. This fee will be applied to your account on the day of your visit. Please note that any additional diagnostics, lab work, or testing will incur separate charges, which will be reviewed with you in the form of an estimate during your consultation.

Once your appointment is confirmed, you’ll receive a New Consultation Letter tailored to the specialty department your pet will be seeing. This letter will provide helpful details about what to expect during your visit.

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, we kindly ask for at least 24 hours' notice to avoid forfeiting your deposit.

Consultation Day Expectations

On the day of your pet’s appointment, please plan to arrive at the hospital 10 to 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in.

We have two buildings on our campus:

  • Our Main Hospital houses the Emergency, Neurology, Surgery, Internal Medicine, and ICU departments.
  • Our Pullen Cancer Center is home to our Medical and Radiation Oncology and Rehabilitation departments.

Upon arrival, our friendly front desk team will greet you and notify the department of your pet's arrival. A veterinary technician will then come to the lobby to introduce themselves and escort you and your pet to an exam room.

Female Staff Member Checking Dogs Weight

Once in the exam room, the technician will:

  • Review the reason for your visit
  • Discuss your pet's medical history
  • Take your pet's vital signs

The technician will then relay this information to the doctor, who will meet with you to further discuss your pet's condition, review their findings, and talk through the next steps in care.

Based on the doctor’s recommendations, an estimate will be provided for any additional services such as diagnostics, blood work, imaging, or procedures.