About Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists

Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists, formerly Chesapeake Veterinary Referral Surgery (CVRS), was founded in Annapolis in 1992 as a component of the Chesapeake Veterinary Referral Center (CVRC).

The medical staff of Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists is composed of nine staff surgeons, three surgical residents, surgical interns, Registered Veterinary Technicians, technician assistants, and ICU technicians. All of our staff surgeons are boarded or board-eligible by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists is associated with emergency care facilities that have 24 hour doctor care in our intensive care units at all of our locations: AAVEC in Annapolis and Pet+E.R. in Hunt Valley. Our two locations have doctors on premises 24 hours a day to ensure that all of our patients receive the highest quality care.

If you would like to learn more about our practice, see our surgical informational brochure or our pet rehabilitation brochure.

Collaboration with Referral Specialists

Our direct access to a multitude of other veterinary specialists in all three of our locations means that we are able to offer cross-specialty care for the most complex cases. Our practice is co-located within the Chesapeake Veterinary Referral Center, a coalition of board-certified veterinary specialists in the disciplines of emergency medicine and critical care, surgery, canine rehabilitation, internal medicine, oncology, cardiology, eye care, neurology and advanced imaging.

We regularly collaborate with:

Excellent

4.8

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Lora N.

2 days ago

After receiving a diagnosis from our primary vet that our dog most likely had anal gland carcinoma, we called around and were able to get an appointment within one week. Dr. Gauthier had a great bedside manner, was very thorough and after examining our dog thought it was a benign perianal mass. We had surgery three days later and the communication and procedure were top notch. We returned almost two weeks later to have the stitches removed and the biopsy results confirmed that the mass was benign just as Dr Gauthier had hoped. The procedure was slightly less than the estimate so we even received a refund. We couldn't be more pleased with the entire experience. Everyone was professional and pleasant. Alex was always upbeat and friendly and recommended spots for us to visit while we waited the day of surgery as we live 1.5 hours away. Thank you for making a stressful situation pleasant!

Response from the owner:We’re truly glad we could see your dog quickly and help bring some clarity during what must have been a very stressful time after the initial diagnosis. It’s wonderful to hear that you felt well-informed and supported throughout the process, from the consultation and surgery to the follow-up and results. We’re especially happy the outcome was positive and aligned with the best-case expectation, and that your experience with the team helped make things a little easier along the way—even during a long day of waiting. We really appreciate your trust and kind words, and we’re wishing you and your dog all the best moving forward.

Jim L.

2 days ago

Met with the surgeon for our dog. After he examined our dog in a different room, he came and sat down and talked to us and spent the necessary time to help us make a decision. My wife and I both felt comfortable after we left knowing it’s gonna be taken care of properly. Surgery is scheduled for a week out.

Response from the owner:We’re really glad to hear you felt comfortable and supported after meeting with the surgeon and that he took the time to carefully explain everything and answer your questions. Making decisions about surgery for a pet can be stressful, and it means a lot to know you left feeling confident in the plan and the care your dog will receive. We’ll be here to support you both through the process and wish your dog a smooth surgery and recovery next week. Thank you for sharing your experience.

Sharon C.

4 days ago

Buster needed surgery as he became paralyzed. The injury happened at 5pm Sunday and by 11am Monday he had his surgery. He is progressing with ability to feel deep pain in his back paws. He is still paralyzed and needs to have his urine expressed. Dr Wolfe was very supportive and constantly kept me informed. We’re hopeful the surgery was successful and with time we will see Thank you

Response from the owner:We’re so glad to hear Buster was able to receive surgery quickly after such a sudden and serious injury, and that you’ve already seen signs like returning deep pain sensation, that’s an encouraging step in his recovery. In cases of paralysis, early intervention and close monitoring are so important, and it’s great to know you felt well supported and informed throughout the process. We’re hopeful for his continued progress and wish him strength as he heals.

judy G.

1 week ago

Response from the owner:We’re happy to hear you had a positive experience and appreciate you allowing us to care for your pet. Thank you for the great feedback!

Ryland S.

1 week ago

We had a great experience with Dr. Middlestead today. She was incredibly knowledgeable about our dog’s condition and even caught and corrected something a previous vet had told us that wasn’t accurate. She took the time to be thorough and gave us a clear, thoughtful plan moving forward, which made us feel so much more confident in our dog’s care. Her tech was also kind and welcoming to our whole family. We really appreciated the compassion and professionalism from everyone we interacted with. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad to hear you felt confident and well supported during your visit, and that your dog received thorough and attentive care. It’s wonderful that the team was able to clarify previous concerns and provide a clear plan moving forward, that peace of mind can make all the difference. We also appreciate you recognizing the kindness and professionalism of our support staff. Thank you for your trust and recommendation, and we wish you and your dog all the best moving forward.

Meagan S.

2 weeks ago

Response from the owner:We’re happy to hear you had a positive experience and appreciate you allowing us to care for your pet. Thank you for the great feedback!

Mike D.

3 weeks ago

Wow! What an operation. So organized and all techs were very knowledgeable and pleasant. Our Cocker had major surgery to remove a tumor. Things couldn’t have gone better. Thank you to everyone who took care of our pet

Response from the owner:We’re thrilled to hear that everything went so well with the surgery. Our team takes great pride in staying organized and providing knowledgeable, compassionate care, so your feedback truly means a lot. We’re honored to have been part of your pet’s journey and wish a smooth and speedy recovery!

Heather V.

3 weeks ago

We had a great experience at Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists. We came in with our dog Amber, who has been suffering from front paw lameness for a while now. Dr. Middlestead was very thorough with her exam and her explanation of what was going on with Amber. Unfortunately, we need to have an MRI done to narrow down the problem. We were able to get information on what would happen after an MRI, if the problem required surgery and in the meantime we were given prescriptions for Amber to keep her comfortable until we could decide on getting the MRI ($3 - 5K). We had also seen Dr. Mannix in neurology a few weeks prior, who suggested we get an orthopedic consultation before getting an MRI. I would highly recommend this practice. The waiting room was quite full too, which makes me believe a lot of people like them.

Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re glad to hear that Amber’s evaluation felt thorough and that everything was clearly explained to you, including the possible next steps and options for keeping her comfortable in the meantime. We know how stressful it can be when a pet is dealing with ongoing lameness, and it’s important to us that you feel informed and supported while deciding on diagnostics like an MRI. We also appreciate your kind words about our team and the trust you placed in both our orthopedic and neurology services. We’re wishing Amber comfort and a clear path forward as you determine the best next steps for her care.

Melissa B.

3 weeks ago

Loved my family's experience with CVSS and especially Joseph M. Prostredny, DVM, MS, CCRT. Dr Prostredny explained the surgery, post-op requirements and recovery expectations thoroughly. Our golden retriever fully recovered from TPOL surgery and is back to living her best life.

Response from the owner:We’re so glad your pup recovered fully and is back to living her best life. It means a lot to hear that you felt informed and supported throughout the surgery and recovery process, and we truly appreciate your trust in our team. Thank you for sharing your experience.

Alicia W.

4 weeks ago

Took my elderly dog, Kota, with a large mass on her muzzle. Honestly the best vet place I've ever been to. The entire staff working there was friendly and amazing. The surgeon was phenomenal. I felt so comfortable being there and at ease with them taking care of my doggie. They actually genuinely seem to care. Its a drive for me, but I'll go there every time! I appreciate them all.

Response from the owner:We’re thrilled to hear that you felt comfortable and supported while Kota received care. Our team truly strives to provide compassionate, attentive care, and it means a lot to know that came through during your visit. We appreciate your trust and are honored to be your choice, even with the drive, thank you for sharing your experience! Thank you so much for your heartfelt review!

Richard P.

4 weeks ago

My 9 year old Precious had a broken rear leg . I was a mess they got me in there in under 24 hrs for surgery I picked her up a day later 🐶she is recovering well thanks Dr Moore and all the staff 4 every thing♥️♥️♥️🐶💥🔥🫶✨🙏🏻💫

Response from the owner:We know how stressful it can be when a beloved pet is injured, and we’re so glad we could get her in quickly and support you through it. It’s wonderful to hear she’s recovering well after surgery, that’s the best news. Our entire team is dedicated to providing compassionate, timely care, and your kind words truly mean a lot to us. Wishing her a smooth and speedy recovery!

Patrick M.

4 weeks ago

Dr. Buirkle provided answers to all our questions about laparoscopic spaying and gastropexy of our Standard Poodle puppy. She did not rush us and was very patient. We are very happy we found her!

Response from the owner:Its always a pleasure to serve clients like you. We appreciate you trusting us with your pet's care. Thank you for your amazing review and please give your pet some extra love from us.

Connie B.

4 weeks ago

I highly recommend Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists and Dr. Elizabeth Moore. Dr. Moore performed a CT scan on my dog to determine what was going on with a large cyst near her liver. She was extremely thorough in explaining the results and walking me through my options, and she made sure I fully understood everything without using a lot of medical jargon. I also felt very comfortable with how kindly and attentively Dr. Moore and the staff cared for my dog while we were there. Thank you for the excellent care and clear communication.

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re delighted to hear that our team could provide thorough, clear explanations and attentive care for your dog. Helping pet owners feel informed and comfortable while ensuring the best care for their pets is very important to us, and your kind words truly mean a lot. We’re grateful for your trust and recommendation!

Barbara B.

4 weeks ago

Response from the owner:Thank you for the great feedback! We’re happy to hear you had a positive experience and we appreciate you allowing us to care for your pet.

William C.

4 weeks ago

Wonderful, talented people. I'm a repeat customer.

Response from the owner:We’re so glad to hear that our team has consistently provided excellent care for you and your pets. We truly appreciate having you as a repeat client! Thank you for your kind words and continued trust!

Nancy F.

4 weeks ago

My kitty had surgery. Everyone from the front desk to all the doctors and asssistants there are wonderful. Warm, yet professional. Their waiting area is calm and comfortable. A rare mix these days!

Response from the owner:We’re thrilled to hear that your kitty’s surgery experience was supported by our warm and professional team. It’s wonderful to know that our calm and comfortable environment made a positive difference for both you and your pet. Thank you for your kind review!

Jen M.

4 weeks ago

Compassionate, knowledgeable and thorough.

Response from the owner:It's always a pleasure to serve clients like you and thank you for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that you found our team compassionate, knowledgeable, and thorough. Providing attentive and thoughtful care is very important to us, and your feedback means a lot.

Chris L.

1 month ago

We've unfortunately had to take our pup in twice for surgery. Despite the stress, the staff and surgeons at CVSS always leave us feeling as comfortable and confident as possible. I wouldn't consider any other veterinary surgeon unless the doctors at CVSS referred me elsewhere. They really are exceptional.

Response from the owner:We’re glad our team could provide comfort and confidence during such stressful times and that your pup received exceptional surgical care. It means a lot to hear that you trust us so completely, and we’re honored to be your choice for your pet’s care. Thank you for sharing your experience!

Ann-Marie M.

1 month ago

The absolute best oncology care. Honest, thorough, great communication. No bill surprises. Understand trade offs per parents/ families face. The entire team is 5 star! Dr Tony Rusk is fantastic

Response from the owner:We’re honored by your trust and truly appreciate your recognition of our team’s commitment to honest, thorough care and clear communication. Supporting patients and families through important decisions is at the core of what we do, and it means so much to know that made a difference in your experience. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with the entire team, including the doctor, they will be grateful to hear it. Thank you for such a thoughtful and heartfelt review.

Vivi L.

1 month ago

I brought my dog Jack in for his first rehab appointment. Dr Carlino and Molly were wonderful! Molly listened to my concerns and took a thorough history, including his likes and dislikes, and what works well for him for motivation and handling. Molly really put me at ease and I felt comfortable handing him off to her. Jack is a sweet boy, but he is prone to running when he gets a mind to. I’m normally pretty nervous allowing other people to handle him for this reason, but I felt confident that Molly heard my concerns and took them seriously. Jack happily trotted off with Molly for his appointment. Dr Carlino came out and reviewed her exam findings and went over several options for therapy. She let me know that Jack didn’t like the beeping sound of one of the lasers, so they tried a different one which didn’t beep, and he did well with that. I love that she was in tune with what made Jack nervous and that she had the patience and understanding to work around his fears. I look forward to future sessions. I highly recommend the rehab program at CVSS! Thank you so much! Alicia and Jack

Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review! We’re thrilled to hear that Jack’s first rehab visit was such a positive experience and that you felt comfortable and supported throughout the process. Taking the time to understand each pet’s personality, preferences, and sensitivities is incredibly important to us, so it means a lot to know that Jack’s needs, and your concerns, were truly heard. We’re especially glad he felt at ease and did well during his session. We truly appreciate your recommendation and look forward to seeing you and Jack again for future rehab visits!