Our frequently
Will you communicate directly with the pet owner?
Sorry but we do not offer that type of service. Keeping the conversation between the Ophthalmologist and Veterinarian will allow for a more accurate consult, as the vet is trained to do an ocular examination and provide key medical details about the pet.
Will you prescribe medications for the patient?
In accordance with AVMA guidelines for a veterinary client patient relationship (VCPR), we will offer advice on treatment but it will be the responsibility of the attending veterinarian to prescribe any medications.
What species will you consult on?
Any species except a human!
Will I receive a report?
A written report will be emailed to the Veterinarian with the email address provided in the consultation request.
Can you bill me for the consult later?
Payment is due at the time the consultation is requested. It is up to your discretion whether you have the hospital pay for the consult then bill your client, or you can have the clients pay directly via Square. (a Square link will appear after you submit the consult request.)
I would prefer to speak with you about my case, can we do that instead?
Yes we can! I can send you a Zoom link or call you. Please specify this request when you submit your consult. Note: This conversation still needs to be between the veterinarian and the ophthalmologist. We can’t consult directly with clients about their pet.
What if I have more questions after my consult is concluded?
We are happy to answer a few questions about the case within 48 hours of the consult, but please know that there will be a fee for rechecks.
You can email at [email protected] with your follow-up questions.
Please reference your patient’s name in the subject line
Tips on obtaining a diagnostic photo
How to take a diagnostic eye photo
If you can’t see the lesion in question on your photo, then we can’t either!
We are only able to interpret the data that is shared, so it is very important to obtain a focused, clear photograph.
Below are some hints for taking a good quality photo of an eye. Please proof your photos before sending them to ensure that they are of diagnostic quality.
Do I need to use a real camera?
Not necessarily, a DSLR camera is fantastic but not feasible for clinics!
An iPhone set in burst mode (https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/take-burst-mode-shots-ipha42c55cd0/ios) can be one of the best ways to catch an eye in motion. Android phones may also burst, but it depends on the camera app that you are using.
You should take multiple photos using different lighting/zoom techniques and select a few of your best images to submit.
Photo or video?
Both! We are happy to evaluate both types of files, and sometimes we can catch something subtle in a short video that can’t be seen in a still photo.
Flash or no flash?
Typically in a well-lit room you won’t need to use the phone flash but try to avoid getting a reflection of the photographer.
The best option is a slightly dim room, and asking an assistant to illuminate the eye with a pen light.
Dark irises = darker images, so if you aren’t seeing the lesion on your photos, try turning on the flash or using a brighter pen light.
How close should I zoom in?
The closer the better! Unless you’re trying to show asymmetry between the two eyes, we don’t need to see the whole head. So try to focus in as close as you can to the eye itself.
