Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Southeast Veterinary Specialists?

A: Southeast Veterinary Specialists is a veterinary referral center for special needs. We are located at 400 N. Causeway Blvd. in Metairie, Louisiana. Our practice serves the veterinarians and their clients in the greater New Orleans area as well as the State of Louisiana and the surrounding Gulf Coast region. We offer the highest quality veterinary care available in a convenient location. Our doctors and staff are dedicated to patient care and client service.

Q: What is a veterinary referral hospital, and why would I need one?

A: Veterinarians refer cases to Southeast Veterinary Specialists when treatment requires a level of expertise or technical skill that they are not comfortable providing. Private referral hospitals are a relatively new resource for veterinarians and their clients. It is no longer necessary for clients to travel to a teaching hospital for specialized veterinary care. Southeast Veterinary Specialists is not a replacement for your veterinarian. We are here to treat specific problems and do not provide general veterinary services such as vaccinations.

Q: Who are the Veterinary Specialists?

A: Veterinary specialists or "diplomates" are veterinarians who have pursued advanced training beyond veterinary school. Most specialties require a minimum of 4 years of internship and residency training after veterinary school and a rigorous credentialing and examination process to achieve the diplomate status. This means that most true veterinary specialists have a minimum of 12 years of college and post-graduate training.

Q: How do I get a referral?

A: Southeast Veterinary Specialists sees cases on a referral-only basis. It is important to see your veterinarian first to determine if referral is necessary. Your veterinarian can refer you to our hospital online at www.southeastvetspecialists.com or by phone at 504-219-0444. After your veterinarian has notified our reception staff of the referral, you may call to set up an appointment at your convenience. It is always helpful if your veterinarian can fill out a referral form with the history of his/her findings and treatments. A copy of our referral form can be downloaded in .pdf format from our website. Please bring copies of any pertinent laboratory results and radiographs to your appointment.
If your pet's condition is an emergency, your veterinarian should contact our office to arrange an immediate referral. Our specialists are available on an as needed basis after hours and on the weekends by calling 504-219-0444.