Cardiology

Overview

Cardiology is the branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the heart as well as part of the circulatory system. What causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments exist for heart problems in different animals can vary widely.

Why should I consider cardiology work-up for my pet?

Cardiology is the branch of medicine that specializes in the heart as well as part of the circulatory system. This is especially important because if your pet is born with a congenital heart disease, it can lead to heart failure. Heart failure is also more common in older pets. Whether you pet is born with a congenital heart defect or is just getting older, they can both lead to heart failure. The best way to prevent heart failure is through catching the problem early.

When should I consider cardiology work-up for my pet?

The symptoms of heart disease vary widely, and in some animals don’t show at all. The common symptoms of heart diseases include: coughing, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, weight loss, behavior changes, and rear limb weakness. If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, then it could mean their heart is working inadequately and could potentially lead to heart failure.

How is my pet cared for during cardiology care?

Checking for heart disease is routine at every checkup for your pet.  Management of a heart disease will depend on the severity. If the disease is asymptomatic (meaning it doesn’t produce or show symptoms) they may not need treatment, but the animal will need to be monitored. For animals that develop symptomatic heart failure, a combination of medications can be used to increase the life expectancy from months to years.

The most effective way to protect your pet as a pet owner is to visit your veterinarian regularly and catch any problems early. The sooner we can intervene, the better the chance we can give your pet a longer and healthier life.

Dermatology

Overview

Dermatology is the branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders. Dermatological conditions are some of the most common problems your pet can experience. They range from hair loss and nail disorders, to cancer of the skin and tumors.

Why should I consider dermatology work-ups for my pet?

Dermatology is the branch of medicine that diagnoses and treats skin disorders. A veterinary dermatologist has a very high level of expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of ailments that affect the skin, hair or coat, ears, nails, hoof, or mouth problem your pet may be experiencing.

Typical problems in animals include acute and chronic ear infections, tumors, masses, atopic dermatitis, autoimmune skin diseases, cancer, cysts, tumors, chronic bacterial and fungal skin diseases, drug reactions of the skin, environmental allergies, food allergies, hair loss disorders, hormonal skin diseases, insect hypersensitivity, nail disorders, parasitic skin diseases, and skin manifestations of systemic diseases.

When should I consider dermatology work-ups for my pet?

If you’re concerned about the quality of life your pet is experiencing, or if a condition or disease has not responded to more general treatment, then it may be time to seek out a veterinary dermatologist. Common signs that something is wrong include: hair loss, redness of skin, scale, and recurring infections. A vet that specializes in dermatology has expertise with diagnosing and treating a wide variety of problems including skin, ear, hair, nail, hoof, and mouth disorders. 

How is my pet cared for during dermatology care?

Treating or managing a dermatological problem will vary, but your veterinarian will work with you in developing a treatment plan that is best suited for your pet’s specific health needs.

Endocrinology

Overview

In each of our bodies, we contain a system of glands that work to secrete essential hormones that help regulate the functions of the body. These glands include the: thyroid gland, parathyroid gland, adrenal gland, pituitary gland, pancreas, ovaries, and testes. The collection of these glands make up our endocrine system, which plays a vital role in our health and happiness. Our pets have a very similar endocrine system, making it easier for us to study and evaluate if they may be suffering from an endocrine disorder.

Why should I consider endocrinology for my pet?

The study of veterinary endocrinology can be particularly useful when combatting a number of diseases and disorders including:

-Diabetes

-Hyperthyroidism

-Hypothyroidism

-Cushing’s disease

-Addison’s disease

When the glands in your pet’s endocrine system secrete either too many or too little hormones, their body will very likely be negatively impacted. If they are not diagnosed and treated in a timely manner, the consequences could be severe.

When should I consider endocrinology for my pet?

We all care for our pets, which makes it imperative to seek help whenever it may be needed. Unfortunately, endocrine disorders can be incredibly difficult to identify by an animal's physical symptoms alone. This is a primary reason why regular health check-ups are imperative to your pet’s long term health. Some of the physical symptoms you may notice include:

-Sudden weight loss or gain

-Major increase or decrease in thirst

-Persistent panting

-Loss of vision

-Weakened energy levels

If your pet is experiencing any of the above, or just seems to be behaving unusually, it is imperative that they be examined by one of our veterinarians at your earliest convenience.

How do you treat endocrine disorders?

We tailor each and every treatment plan to the individual condition and needs of your pet. After being properly examined by one of our veterinarians, a number of treatments may be offered depending on the disease or disorder your pet is suffering from. If caught early, most endocrine diseases and disorders can be managed effectively by hormonal supplements or other prescription medication. If your pet’s condition is more advanced, we may suggest radiotherapy or surgery. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact one of our veterinarians at your earliest convenience.

Gastroenterology

Overview

We are committed to helping each and every pet owner find ways to manage their pet’s stomach and intestinal problems. Gastrointestinal issues can come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, which makes diagnostic testing vitally important for your pet’s care. Once a diagnosis has been reached, our veterinarians will work with you to ensure your pet receives proper treatment in order to regain comfort in their life.

Why should I consider a gastroenterology work-up for my pet?

As pet owners, we don’t want to see any of our pets in discomfort. We know all too well how stomach problems can throw off our entire day. This is why it is crucially important to consider a gastroenterology work-up as a means of diagnosing and finding the right treatment plan for your pet. Commonly diagnosed conditions related to gastroenterology include:

-Gastroenteritis

-Pancreatitis

-Colitis

-Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

-Small intestinal malabsorption

When should I consider a gastroenterology work-up for my pet?

As with humans, digestive issues in animals can surface in a number of unpleasant ways. Symptoms commonly related to gastrointestinal diseases and disorders can include:

-Flatulence

-Loss of appetite

-Diarrhea

-Weight loss

-Excessive belching

-Enlarged abdomen

-Bloody stool

It is important to keep a close eye on your pet if they are exhibiting any of the above symptoms. If your pet continues having vomiting or diarrhea issues, it is important that you schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians immediately. Delaying your pet’s treatment will only cause their condition to worsen if they are dealing with a more advanced gastrointestinal disease.

How do you treat gastrointestinal issues?

Many gastrointestinal issues will clear up on their own after a few days, however it is important to continuously monitor your pet’s symptoms for changes. If their symptoms continue, or get worse, schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians as soon as possible. Through careful diagnostic testing, our skilled veterinarians will make the proper diagnosis for your pet’s condition and tailor a treatment plan that will work best for both you and your pet. Most gastrointestinal issues can be treated simply by changing your pet’s diet to a more digestible food. In more advanced cases, long-term nutritional management or even surgery may be required. Talk to your veterinarian in order to determine what is best for your pet.

Neurology

Overview

The nervous system is one of the most central systems of your pet’s body, and therefore is vitally important in ensuring they lead a happy and healthy life. The nervous system includes the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and nerves, each of which can come with their own unique set of issues. Veterinary neurologists have been specially trained to treat your pet’s neurological issues, and will ensure that your pet is comfortable through the examination and treatment process. Issues surrounding the nervous system can be severe, so it is imperative that you contact your veterinarian to schedule an appointment at the first sign of trouble.

Why should I consider neurology for my pet?

Being mindful of your pet’s neurological condition and scheduling regular check-ups can be vital to ensure they lead longer and healthier lives. No pet owner wants to see their furry friends in any kind of distress, making neurological check-ups an important part to your animal’s wellness routine. Common neurological issues in animals can include:

-Spinal cord injury

-Head injury

-Cancers of the nervous system

-Metabolic brain disorder

-Meningitis

-Epilepsy

-Herniated disks

-Brain tumors

-Vestibular disease

When should I consider neurology for my pet?

You should consider neurology for your pet if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

-Seizures

-Spinal pain

-Paralysis or drastic weakness

-Balance problems

-Change in behavior

Unlike other conditions and diseases, neurological issues don’t typically go away on their own. This is why it is crucial to take any neurological issues your pet may be having very seriously. Contact your veterinarian as soon as there is any sign of trouble.

How do you treat neurological issues?

Neurological issues tend to require more advanced forms of treatment. When you bring in your pet, a series of exams will be administered in order to assess the communication pattern from their brain to their nerves, the functionality of their reflexes, and their ability to hold a normal posture. The results of examination will help your veterinarian distinguish which parts of the nervous system are not functioning properly. Depending on your pet’s diagnosis, prescription medication may be necessary. More advanced disorders may require long-term neurological therapy or even neurosurgery. Contact your veterinarian to determine the best plan for your pet.

Ophthalmology

Overview

Veterinary ophthalmology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders and diseases in cats, dogs, and other animals. Eye conditions such as cataracts are fairly common in pets and may require surgery to heal, while other conditions require less intensive treatment to manage. We will work closely with you to identify the source of any eye symptoms your pet may be experiencing, and develop the best treatment plans for the long-term health of your pet’s eyes.

Why would my pet need ophthalmology treatments?

Most humans visit the eye doctor at least once a year. It is also essential we keep our pet’s eyes healthy as well.

There are a number of eye disorders your pet may experience. Some of these conditions may occur as side effects of another disease your pet may have. For example, cataracts are most likely inherited from a concurrent condition such as diabetes.

When would my pet need ophthalmology treatments?

If your pet is experiencing any of the following, you should bring them in for an examination.

-       Watery eyes

-       Excessive blinking

-       Squinting

-       Redness

-       Puffiness

-       Bulging around the eyes

-       Sunken eyes

-       Dehydration

-       Sensitivity to light

-       Excessive tears

-       Loss of appetite

-       Rubbing or pawing at the face

-       Whining

-       Noticeable decrease in vision or suspected blindness

How will you treat my pet?

Depending on the diagnosis, we may recommend any of the following treatment options. Some treatments can be performed quickly, while others may require surgery.

-       Ultrasonic removal of cataracts

-       Tear duct repairs

-       Correction of eyelid abnormalities

-       Artificial eye placement

-       Drug therapy

-       Laser surgery

-       Corneal transplantation

-       Glaucoma surgery

Urology

Overview

Veterinary urology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of the urinary tract and kidneys. Urinary diseases (especially UTIs) are some of the most common and severe diseases in dogs, cats, and other animals. Oftentimes symptoms go unnoticed until they become life-threatening.

Why would my pet need urology treatments?

Some symptoms and urological disorders may be caused by a concurrent condition. If your pet is experiencing any of the following, you should bring them in to see us for an examination. However, urinary obstruction is a medical emergency, so if your pet is unable to pass urine they need to be treated immediately.

-       Fever

-       Bloody or cloudy urine

-       Inability to urinate

-       Loss of bladder control

-       Strong odor urine

-       Increased frequency of urination

-       Soiling inappropriate places

-       Obsessive licking of urinary opening

-       Lethargy

-       Weight loss

-       Vomiting

When would my pet need urology treatments?

Depending on the pet’s symptoms and examination, your veterinarian may diagnose your pet with a urinary disease. Urinary diseases are common diseases in animals, and require medical attention. Common urological disorders include:

-       Urinary tract infection

-       Kidney disease and failure

-       Urine crystal and bladder stones

-       Incontinence

-       Urinary tract obstruction

-       Feline urological syndrome

How will you treat my pet?

Depending on the diagnosis, we may recommend any of the following treatment options. Some conditions are simply treatable with medications, while others may require surgery.

-       Antibiotics

-       Nutritional counsel and dietary management

-       Medical therapy

-       Drug Therapy

-       Urethral bulking

-       Blood pressure control

-       Urethral catheterization

-       Surgery

-       Renal transplantation

-       Interventional radiology

-       Minimally invasive surgery

-       Soft tissue surgery