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At Ten West Bird and Animal Hospital, we pride ourselves on providing the latest in diagnostics and treatment, as well as having a keen focus on personalized preventive care. Veterinary medicine is a rapidly growing field that encompasses new technologies and advancements that greatly improve the health and longevity of our precious pets.

While much of our work is focused on the preventive side of things, like annual exams and vaccinations, specialists are sometimes required for complex diseases. This is where a veterinary internist shines. Keep reading to learn more about why internal medicine is so important to your pet’s long term well-being.

Internal Medicine for Small Animals

You may be familiar with the term “internal medicine,” but what does it really mean? The study of internal medicine looks at the complex processes of diagnosing and managing diseases that affect the internal systems and organs.  

Board certified veterinary internists are very knowledgeable about the following common conditions:

• Gastroenterology (diseases of the intestines, esophagus, and stomach)
• Endocrinology (hormonal disorders, such as diabetes)
• Hepatology (affecting the liver)
• Urology (urinary tract)
• Infectious disease
• Nephrology (kidney disease)
• Respiratory conditions
• Cardiovascular health
• Hematology (disorders of the blood)
• Cancer

As you can see, the range of areas in which an internist specializes is vast. It includes many diseases that impact our pets, particularly as they age. In addition, a focus on internal medicine, in coordination with your pet’s regular veterinarian, can be incredibly beneficial, especially if your pet struggles with a chronic condition.

The Role of a Veterinary Internist

Veterinary internists receive advanced training after completing veterinary college, which includes a 3-year internship and master’s level studies. Oftentimes, it requires being published and meeting strict criteria outlined by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM).

Internists are the detectives of the veterinary world, often relied upon when a more complicated diagnosis is required. Difficult, non-routine cases are the bread and butter of a veterinary internist!

The Specialists at Ten West

At Ten West, we’re pleased to offer the services of a board certified veterinary internist. This includes remote ultrasound consultation via the web. Their services are available with a referral from your veterinarian.

If you’d like to know more about our veterinary internist or have questions about how internal medicine can help your pet, please contact us!