As many of you are aware there are a number of wonderful vet specialists
who have helped in some unusual cases through a small on-and-off "Unusual
Cases Vets' List" I have distributed.
 
Till now things have been somewhat informal but some basics have been
asked.  Unfortunately, those who have used the list have often not
followed-up well, and there has been a recent, blatent misuse of the list.
Now it is no longer possible for things to progress in such an informal
fashion.
 
These are very busy professionals and the gift of their time needs to be
repaid by them having a learning opportunity.  There has not been any
request for more than that in reimbursement at this point.  I have heard
that accurate follow-ups, information who is treating the animal and that
vet's willingness to have aid, post mortems, and some other things are
desired, in fact these three specifically named will probably have to be
REQUIRED.  At this point I have asked the participating vets to let me know
their suggestions for what should be required and what agreed to BEFORE a
case can go out for advice.  When that is decided those rules will be
posted and MUST be followed for others to have this opportunity when times
are hard.
 
I am sorry if someone here has a situation right now, but this has to be
settled before the list is definitely lost.
 
The list is an important resource for anyone who runs into an unusual
medical problem, but I am not sure it will continue unless people accord
the participants the respect they deserve.
 
Sukie
[Posted in FML issue 2560]