About Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists

about-chesapeake-veterinary-surgical-specialists-maryland

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
Based on 961 reviews
Tom
4 days ago
My dog came in knocking on deaths door and their surgeon and expert quality care during and after saved her life! We went in with a 50/50 chance and although we can never truly predict how things go, it was their team that saved my girl. I was impressed by the urgency of the care when we first were taken in, the team coming together in an expedited fashion to ascertain the issue, to the diligence of monitoring and giving her exactly what she needed as things changed, they adapted. I appreciated the update calls every 12 hours keeping us informed, they truly care for our pets. I trust this place with my pets life, they have proven a worthy place, although expensive, I couldn't recommend this place enough. God bless the people who work here.
Response from the owner:We're so grateful we could be there for your dog during such a critical time. Hearing that she's doing well after such a serious situation is incredibly rewarding for our team. Thank you for your trust, your kind words, and for recognizing the dedication of our doctors, surgeon, and staff. We wish your girl continued health and happiness.
Mike D.
4 days ago
Amazing service, team and staff. Was more than I expected. Several follow up appointments and then a second surgery late fall. Great drive from Dover but the service first was impressive.
Response from the owner:We're thrilled to hear that your experience exceeded your expectations. Providing exceptional care, communication, and support throughout every stage of treatment is what our team strives for, and we're grateful for the trust you've placed in us. Thank you for making the drive from Dover and for your kind words. We look forward to continuing to care for your pet during their upcoming appointments and surgery.
S C.
6 days ago
Excellent care for my dog who needed emergency surgery for AIDD.
Response from the owner:We’re glad our team was able to provide excellent care for your dog during such an important and stressful time. We understand how difficult it can be when a pet needs emergency surgery, and we’re honored that you trusted us to care for your companion. We truly appreciate your confidence in our team and wish your dog a smooth recovery!
William H.
1 week ago
Get an appointment, check-in, exam, an explanation of Care was all top-notch. Plenty of time for all questions and explanations were spot on.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind feedback. We’re glad to hear that every part of your visit, from scheduling and check-in to the exam and care discussion, was top-notch. It’s especially important to us that you felt your questions were fully answered and that everything was explained clearly and thoroughly. We truly appreciate your trust in our team and your thoughtful review.
Keith
1 week ago
It was great- Was very well taken care of 🤙
Response from the owner:Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear that you had a great experience and felt well taken care of. We truly appreciate your kind words and look forward to welcoming you back!
Kathy W.
1 week ago
We went for a surgical consultation and are very pleased. We did have to wait long to see the doctor She review Maggy's file and we discussed possible treatments. She answered all our questions
Response from the owner:We’re glad you had a positive experience during your surgical consultation and that the doctor took the time to thoroughly review your pet’s history, discuss treatment options, and answer all of your questions. We know waiting can be difficult, and we truly appreciate your patience. It means a lot to know you left feeling informed and supported in making the best decision for your pet’s care.
Muyuan L.
2 weeks ago
Dr. Wolfe and Dr. Fox treated my cat, Alex. We brought him to the emergency hospital at the same referral center, and he was later transferred to CVSS for a cystotomy. Alex had quite a complex case due to our cross-country move just one week prior and the fact that this was his second cystotomy in the same month. Dr. Wolfe explained the treatment plan and potential complications and recommended what she believed was the best path forward. They also worked with us to make sure we were comfortable with the treatment plan. We followed the doctors’ instructions, and the surgery, as well as his post op recovery, was immensely successful. I hope we never have to go back to treat our kitties, but if we do, I would absolutely trust Dr. Wolfe and Dr. Fox with our cats! The front desk staff and techs were also super helpful and absolutely delightful to work with.
Response from the owner:We’re so grateful you trusted our team with your cat during such a complicated and stressful time. We’re delighted to hear that the surgery and recovery went so well, and that our team could provide clear communication, thoughtful guidance, and support throughout the process. It also means a great deal to hear that our front desk staff and technicians made you feel welcomed and cared for. Thank you for your trust and for sharing such a thoughtful review, we’re honored to have been part of your cat’s successful recovery.
Jenna L.
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!
Angi
2 weeks ago
Bella needed orthopedic surgery on her hind leg, the doctor and staff weee very efficient and helpful
Response from the owner:We’re glad our team could provide efficient, attentive care for your dog during such an important time. Orthopedic surgery can be stressful for both pets and their families, and we’re happy to hear that our medical team was helpful and supportive throughout the process. We truly appreciate your trust in our team!
Bob G.
2 weeks ago
The facility is a little difficult to find exactly as it is set back from the road, but once you get there it is wonderful. Parking is plentiful and right at the facility. The waiting area inside is very large with ample space for everyone to have a comforting amount of space while waiting to be seen. The staff is friendly, prompt and knowledgeable. I was made to feel very confident in the staff as I watched several technicians dealing with the multiple cases in the waiting area. they were all friendly and positive and they seemed to be handling each situation with compassion and care. Once in the exam room my pet and I were the focus of the interview. The rest of the visit was centered on us and every step was clearly explained including the doctor visit and his explanation of what had happened during his exam and what options I had available to me. I highly recommend Chesapeake Veterinary Surgical Specialists.
Response from the owner:We’re so pleased to hear that you felt comfortable and confident in our team throughout your visit. Creating a welcoming environment, providing attentive care, and keeping families informed are all important to us. It means a great deal to know that our staff took the time to focus on you and your pet, explain each step clearly, and discuss your options. We truly appreciate your thoughtful recommendation and trust in our team!
Matthew F.
2 weeks ago
Very friendly and helpful staff! Awesome surgeon staff!
Response from the owner:We’re so glad to hear that you found our team friendly, helpful, and supportive throughout your experience. It’s wonderful to know that our surgical team made such a positive impression as well. Thank you for trusting us with your pet’s care and for sharing your kind feedback!
Amelia H.
2 weeks ago
Everyone was so amazing. Great personalities, took amazing care of my baby & really took the time to listen to me & my concerns, didnt talk over me. & Took the time to explain everything & make sure i understood. Absolutely wonderful.
Response from the owner:We’re truly touched by your thoughtful feedback! We’re so glad our team took the time to listen to your concerns, explain everything clearly, and make sure you felt heard and understood. Providing compassionate care for both pets and their families is incredibly important to us, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to care for your beloved companion. Thank you for your wonderful words and trust!
Rick H.
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!
Mary A.
2 weeks ago
Dr. Guthier was so kind and took the time to explain everything to me About my dog Maddie and the next steps. Def recommend!
Response from the owner:We’re so glad you felt supported and well informed during your dog’s visit. Taking the time to explain what’s happening and discuss the next steps is an important part of compassionate care, and we’re happy that came through in your experience. Thank you for trusting us with your pet’s care and for your recommendation!
Kristine K.
2 weeks ago
Everyone (doctor, vet tech & receptionists) was compassionate and knowledgeable. The place is very clean and lots of pets are in and out of there.
Response from the owner:We’re delighted to hear that you found our entire team compassionate, knowledgeable, and welcoming. Maintaining a clean, comfortable environment is especially important in a busy emergency hospital, and we’re glad that stood out during your visit. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience and for trusting us with your pet’s care!
Loretta B.
2 weeks ago
I could not ask for a better facility for the last 2 months. I trusted my dog, karma in their hands, and today it all paid off. He had to have surgery in his leg. And from the beginning to the end, I could not be happier with them. They answered all my questions. Took all my phone calls. It treated us with respect and love and compassion. Today I had happy tears. Thank you for helping karma.We love you all.The whole staff is amazing
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words and for trusting us with your pet’s care. We’re so happy to hear that you and your pet have had positive experiences with our team. Providing helpful communication and creating a comfortable environment for pets and their families is something we value greatly. We appreciate your trust and are grateful to be part of your pet’s care journey.
John P.
2 weeks ago
Expensive? Yes - but also great at what they do. I've had my pup here a couple times for surgery and they are always great to deal with and have sent my pup home happy.
Response from the owner:Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us, John. We're glad to hear that your pup is doing well after surgery.
Fantastic specialists in every medical field. They were kind, compassionate and very knowledgeable.
Response from the owner:We’re so glad to hear that you had such a positive experience with our specialists and care team. Our goal is always to provide knowledgeable, compassionate care while supporting both pets and their families through every step. We truly appreciate your trust and kind words!
Catherine A.
3 weeks ago
They did everything they could to make the last hours for my pup comfortable. They gave us the worst news we could've received, but they answered every question and never rushed us to make a decision. Im thankful for their team and their empathy.
Response from the owner:We’re deeply sorry for the loss of your beloved companion and know how incredibly difficult those final hours must have been. We’re grateful that our team could provide comfort, answer your questions, and give you the time and space you needed without ever making you feel rushed or pressured. Knowing that you felt supported and surrounded by empathy during such a painful moment means a great deal to us. It was an honor to be there for you and your pup when you needed compassionate care most.
Charine A.
3 weeks ago
Surgery for torn ACL. Dr. Fox and team were wonderful. Kept us updated pre and post surgery. This place is awesome! I do however highly recommend getting g pet insurance.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re glad to hear that the surgery went well and that our team kept you informed before and after the procedure. Clear communication and compassionate care are very important to us, and we’re grateful you felt supported throughout the process. We truly appreciate your trust and kind recommendation!