Some pet illnesses don’t have easy answers. When routine treatments aren’t working or test results don’t explain your pet’s symptoms, your primary vet may refer you to an internist. At BluePearl Glendale, our internal medicine specialists focus on complex, puzzling, or chronic conditions – and we’re here to help you get answers.
Why your vet may recommend a referral in an internist.
A veterinary internist can take the next diagnostic step when:
- Your pet has persistent or unexplained symptoms
- Initial treatments haven’t resolved the issue
- Bloodwork or imaging results are abnormal but unclear
- A biopsy, endoscopy, or ultrasound is needed
- Your vet wants a second opinion from a specialist
This doesn’t mean your regular vet did anything wrong – just that your pet needs extra expertise.
What to expect at your first internal medicine appointment.
Here’s what typically happens during your visit to BluePearl Glendale:
- We review your pet’s full medical history and records
- A physical exam tailored to your pet’s condition
- Diagnostic testing may include imaging, blood panels, or advanced sampling
- You’ll receive a detailed plan, diagnosis (if possible), and next steps
- We stay in close communication with your family veterinarian
Every case is different – but our goal is always to find clarity and relief.
Common issues internal medicine can help investigate.
Internists handle a wide range of concerns, including:
- Weight loss without a known cause
- Chronic gastrointestinal issues
- Hormonal imbalances
- Kidney, liver, or bladder problems
- Unusual lab results
- Complications from other conditions or treatments
Collaboration is key.
We don’t replace your family vet – we work alongside them. After your visit, your referring veterinarian will receive detailed notes and a summary of your pet’s plan.
Navigating complex pet illnesses with internal medicine at BluePearl Glendale — FAQ.
Your primary veterinarian may suggest a referral to a veterinary internist when your pet is experiencing persistent or unexplained symptoms that do not respond to routine treatments. If initial treatments haven't resolved the issue, or if bloodwork or imaging results are abnormal but unclear, an internist can provide the next level of diagnostic expertise. Situations requiring a biopsy, endoscopy, or ultrasound may also prompt a referral. Additionally, your vet might seek a second opinion from a specialist to ensure comprehensive care. It's important to understand that this referral doesn't imply any wrongdoing by your regular vet; rather, it indicates that your pet requires additional expertise to address their health concerns.
During your initial visit to BluePearl Glendale, our internal medicine specialists will conduct a thorough review of your pet's full medical history and records. A physical exam tailored to your pet's specific condition will be performed to assess their health. Diagnostic testing may be recommended, which could include imaging, blood panels, or advanced sampling techniques. Following the examination and tests, you will receive a detailed plan, diagnosis (if possible), and next steps for managing your pet's condition. Throughout the process, we maintain close communication with your family veterinarian to ensure cohesive care. Our goal is to find clarity and relief for your pet, recognizing that every case is unique.
Internists at BluePearl Glendale are equipped to handle a wide range of complex health concerns. These include unexplained weight loss, chronic gastrointestinal issues, hormonal imbalances, and kidney, liver, or bladder problems. They also address unusual lab results and complications arising from other conditions or treatments. By focusing on these intricate issues, internists aim to uncover the underlying causes and provide effective solutions for your pet's health challenges.
At BluePearl Glendale, collaboration with your family veterinarian is a key aspect of our approach. We do not replace your regular vet; instead, we work alongside them to ensure your pet receives comprehensive care. After your visit, your referring veterinarian will receive detailed notes and a summary of your pet's plan, allowing for seamless integration of our findings into your pet's ongoing care. This collaborative effort ensures that your pet benefits from the combined expertise of both your family vet and our internal medicine specialists.
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