FAQs

Internal Medicine Specialists are like puzzle-solvers. We specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect a pet’s internal organs—like the stomach, lungs, kidneys, and immune system. When symptoms are hard to explain or tests come back unclear, internal medicine steps in to get to the root of the problem using advanced tools like ultrasounds, scopes, and lab work.

Internal Medicine is all about solving the tough cases. When a pet’s symptoms don’t tell the whole story, they piece together test results, medical history, and subtle clues to find the answer and guide treatment.

Not all illnesses are easy to spot—especially when it comes to internal conditions. If you notice any of the following changes in your pet, it may be time for a closer look:

• Changes in appetite – eating more or less than usual

• Unexplained weight loss or gain

• Frequent vomiting or diarrhea

• Lack of energy – seeming tired, withdrawn, or less playful

• Increased thirst or more frequent urination

• Coughing or unusual breathing patterns

• Sensitive belly or signs of discomfort when touched

• Yellowing of gums, eyes, or skin (jaundice)

• New or odd behaviors – like pacing, confusion, or hiding more often

These signs don’t always mean something serious—but they’re worth checking out. Our Internal Medicine team can help uncover what’s going on beneath the surface and guide your pet toward feeling better.

We dig deep when symptoms aren’t clear-cut, starting with a full physical exam and asking detailed questions about your pet’s history. Then, we use advanced tools—like blood tests, ultrasounds, or scopes—to get a better look inside. By piecing together the results, we can pinpoint the problem and create a personalized treatment plan, all while working closely with your primary vet.

It means your primary vet is bringing in a specialist who focuses on diagnosing and treating complex internal conditions—like kidney disease, diabetes, or immune-related issues. These experts use advanced tools and testing to uncover the root cause of tricky symptoms.

It doesn’t mean your regular vet is stepping away—it’s more like adding a new expert to your pet’s care team to make sure they get the best possible outcome.

These conditions require ongoing care, but they can be managed successfully with the right plan. Treatment often includes:

• Daily medications or insulin

• Special diets tailored to your pet’s condition

• Regular check-ups and lab work to monitor progress

• Lifestyle adjustments, like gentle exercise or stress reduction

• Close communication between you and your veterinary team

With consistency and support, pets with chronic illnesses can still enjoy a great quality of life.

Long-term medications can be life-changing for pets with chronic conditions—helping manage pain, control symptoms, and improve quality of life. Many pets thrive with daily meds when monitored properly.

That said, every medication comes with potential risks. Over time, some drugs may affect the liver, kidneys, or digestive system, or interact with other treatments. That’s why regular check-ups and lab work are key. They help your vet catch any issues early and adjust the plan if needed.

The goal is always to strike the right balance: keeping your pet comfortable and healthy while minimizing side effects.

Hospitalization allows your pet to receive close monitoring and advanced treatments. Depending on their condition, this may include IV fluids, medications, lab work, imaging (like X-rays or ultrasound), or nutritional support. Your pet will stay in a clean, comfortable space with a dedicated team keeping a close eye on their progress.

We know it’s hard to be apart from your pet, so we’ll keep you updated regularly and let you know when they’re ready to come home. It’s all about giving them the best chance to heal safely and comfortably.

We provide onsite overnight care every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. If your pet needs to be hospitalized on other days, rest assured—they’ll receive attentive care and monitoring throughout the day, and we’ll ensure they are safe, comfortable, and stable before our team leaves for the night.

Absolutely. While surgery is sometimes necessary, many internal conditions—like diabetes, kidney disease, or chronic pain—can often be managed with medications, special diets, and lifestyle changes. In some cases, your vet may also recommend:

• Laser therapy – to reduce inflammation and promote healing

• Acupuncture or chiropractic care – for pain relief and mobility support

• Hydrotherapy or physical rehab – especially for joint or neurologic issues

• Advanced medical management – like insulin for diabetes or medications for heart disease

Your veterinary team will help you explore the best options for your pet’s condition, comfort, and long-term health.

Pets with chronic conditions—like diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, or heart disease—can still live happy, fulfilling lives with the right support. Here’s how you can help:

• Stick to the treatment plan – Give medications and follow diet recommendations consistently.

• Keep up with check-ups – Regular visits help your vet adjust care as your pet’s needs change.

• Watch for changes – Subtle shifts in appetite, energy, or behavior can signal it’s time to tweak the plan.

• Make home life easier – Ramps, soft bedding, or non-slip mats can make a big difference.

• Stay active but gently – Low-impact play or short walks can boost mood and mobility.

• Offer emotional support – Your love and attention are powerful medicine, too.

You’re not alone—your veterinary team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Some signs can’t wait. If your pet shows any of the following, contact your vet or an emergency hospital right away:

• Severe or repeated vomiting or diarrhea

• Difficulty breathing or rapid, shallow breaths

• Sudden collapse or extreme weakness

• Swollen or painful abdomen

• Uncontrolled bleeding

• Seizures—especially if they last more than a minute or happen more than once

• Inability to urinate or defecate

• Pale gums, yellowing of the eyes or skin, or bluish tongue

• Unusual behavior like confusion, disorientation, or unresponsiveness

These symptoms could point to serious internal issues like organ failure, internal bleeding, or other medical crises—and fast action can make all the difference.

Internal Medicine specialists play a key role in diagnosing cancer and guiding treatment decisions—especially when the condition is complex or affects multiple organs. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, treatment options may include:

• Chemotherapy – Medications that target cancer cells throughout the body. Pets usually tolerate chemo well, with fewer side effects than people.

• Targeted medications – For certain cancers, oral or injectable drugs can help slow tumor growth or manage symptoms.

• Immunotherapy – In select cases, treatments that boost the immune system may be used.

• Palliative care – Focused on comfort and quality of life, including pain relief, appetite support, and symptom management.

• Referral for surgery or radiation – If needed, internists coordinate with specialists to remove tumors or treat localized cancers.

The goal is always to create a plan that balances effectiveness with your pet’s comfort and well-being.

We look at a few key signs to track progress:

• Symptom improvement – Is your pet eating better, more active, or more comfortable?

• Follow-up testing – Bloodwork, imaging, or other diagnostics help confirm how well the treatment is working.

• Behavioral changes – A brighter mood or more normal routines can be a great sign.

• Your observations – You know your pet best, and your input helps guide adjustments.

• Ongoing communication – Regular check-ins allow us to fine-tune the plan as your pet’s needs evolve.

Internal medicine often involves managing complex or chronic conditions, so progress may be gradual—but with the right care, many pets thrive.

As pets grow older, their needs change—but with a little extra care, they can thrive well into their golden years. Here’s how you can help:

• Schedule regular check-ups – Senior pets benefit from wellness exams every 6 months to catch issues early.

• Watch for subtle changes – Shifts in appetite, mobility, or behavior can signal age-related conditions.

• Support joint health – Soft bedding, ramps, and joint supplements can ease stiffness and discomfort.

• Keep their mind active – Gentle play, new toys, and short walks help maintain mental sharpness.

• Adjust their diet – Senior-friendly nutrition supports energy, digestion, and weight management.

• Stay on top of dental care – Older pets are more prone to dental disease, so regular cleanings and at-home care are key.

• Offer comfort and routine – A calm, predictable environment helps aging pets feel secure and loved.

We’re here to guide you every step of the way—because growing older shouldn’t mean growing uncomfortable.