[gemy]

Nikki; often the websites of the specialist have a referral form, this you can fax into your regular vet' and say please fill in, fax to this number. Please expedite this request, as my pup is in pain; and I need to get him in to the specialist for treatment.

Or if I lived closeby; I'd personally pre fill out the form; and show up at the vet's office; I think what your general vet is doing; ie reluctance to give you a referral is very very unprofessional.