I can't give any advice about Sweep's toes or elbows, but I guess the Orthopaedic Specialist Vet practice is Anderson Sturgess, at Hursley, near Winchester?
If so, William and I had a very positive experience when he was referred for a MRI scan on his back last summer following recurring incidences of back pain that my usual vet couldn't fully diagnosis. We had an initial appointment, then William had the scan a week or so later, then back for the results. I saw the same vet each time and he was very caring and very good at answering my questions and explaining things.
All the staff seem really pleasant and helpful. When I left William there for his scan the nurse who took him was very kind to him (and me) and as I pulled up in my car to collect him I remember seeing 2 nurses gently assisting and literally supporting a Labrador that had obviously had major surgery, judging by all his shaved areas, to walk very slowly to a patch of grass so that he could have a pee, bless him.
So I reckon Sweep will be in good hands there. Good luck
