@Craigh:
I'm in a very rural area. My vet's specialty is horses; smaller animals are a very very small part of his practice. Not a whole lot of choice unless I want to drive more than an hour, which isn't practical in emergency situations.
Well, I understant that, but even a specialty Vet would have contacts to consult with?…. I have had many a Vet that is versed in one thing or the other (and only horses) that would do that.... and of course not practical in emergency situations