Leashed tabby cat beside resting black-and-white puppy on grass in sunlit park

Pet Owners

Specialized care by referral.

Welcome to the UC Davis Hobbs Veterinary Center!
We operate as a referral clinic for specialty services, offering advanced treatment options in tandem with your primary care vet. We treat every patient like a member of our own family, combining expert care with compassion, comfort, and personal attention.

How do I get an appointment?

First, you must get a referral from your pet's primary care veterinarian. If you and your primary care vet feel that your pet has a condition which is beyond the scope or expertise of what can reasonably be achieved in general practice, then a referral to a specialist is appropriate.

The Referral Process

A referral must be made by your primary care veterinarian who will provide us with your pet's current medical information and any history. We will work closely with you and your vet to determine possible treatment paths and options. You may contact us once your veterinarian has contacted us for the referral. 

 

Two smiling older women seated on a patio sofa, each holding small dogs

What to Expect From Your Visit

Before you arrive

  • We collect the referring veterinarian's information and reach out directly to request records, so we can ensure everything has been received before the appointment.
  • If urine testing is likely, try not to let your pet urinate immediately before the appointment.
  • If imaging, such as an ultrasound, is anticipated, your pet may need to fast beforehand. We will let you know in advance if this applies.
  • Please plan for a longer appointment than you would typically have for a routine veterinary visit.

During your visit

  • A technician will greet you, obtain a history, and perform a physical examination.
  • One of our specialists will review the examination findings and your pet's history and discuss recommendations with you.
  • Any diagnostics that can be performed the same day typically will be, so you can leave with a clearer picture of your pet's condition rather than waiting for a second appointment.

Cost Estimates and Payment

  • We provide an estimate for recommended testing and treatment before proceeding, so clients understand the anticipated costs.
  • Full payment is due at the time of service.
  • For surgical procedures, hemodialysis, or hospitalization, we require a deposit toward the high end of the estimated cost.
  • We accept cash, all major credit cards, and CareCredit.
  • We do not accept checks.
Smiling woman on clinic bench with white dog resting, IV bandaged leg (photo)

 

“Thank you, thank you, thank you to the veterinary team who saved Ella’s life and took such good care of her while she was in the hospital.

Your dedication and kindness to Ella and me are appreciated beyond what my words can express.” 


– Susan Waker (with Ella)

How Specialty Care Differs From a Routine Veterinary Visit

Specialty care is generally more involved than a routine wellness exam. It includes evaluation by a specialist and may involve additional diagnostic testing based on your pet's individual needs. We also coordinate with the primary veterinarian and obtain relevant medical records to help ensure the specialist has a complete picture of your pet's history.

For more intensive treatments, such as hemodialysis, we will also speak with the client directly beforehand to explain the treatment, what it involves, and what they can expect.