If your pet has a chronic illness or a condition your family vet can’t diagnose, internal medicine may provide answers. At TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles, our veterinary internists specialize in treating complex cases that require advanced diagnostics and long-term care.

An Associate smiles at a patient while the dog is playing around before an ultrasound.

What is veterinary internal medicine?

Internal medicine is a veterinary specialty that focuses on conditions affecting internal organs and systems. Internists manage a wide range of issues, including:

  • Kidney and liver disease
  • Endocrine disorders (like Cushing’s or diabetes)
  • Gastrointestinal problems
  • Respiratory conditions
  • Autoimmune or immune-mediated diseases

Two Associates - a veterinarian and a veterinary technician - kneel down with their arms around a content-looking canine patient.

When to see a veterinary internist.

Your primary care veterinarian may refer you to an internist if your pet:

  • Has abnormal lab results or imaging
  • Isn’t responding to treatment
  • Has recurrent vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss
  • Is diagnosed with a chronic illness that needs advanced care
  • Has unexplained symptoms or complex conditions

How internal medicine helps.

At TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles, our internists use advanced tools such as:

  • Ultrasound
  • Endoscopy
  • Specialized blood and hormone testing
  • Biopsies and tissue sampling
  • Real-time monitoring and collaboration with other specialists

This approach enables quicker and more accurate diagnoses, as well as targeted treatment plans.

What to expect at your visit.

We’ll review your pet’s records, perform a thorough exam, and recommend diagnostic tests as needed. Once we identify what’s going on, we’ll work with you and your primary vet to create a care plan that supports your pet’s long-term health.

Three veterinary Associates perform an ultrasound on a small black and white dog.

Veterinary internal medicine at TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles — FAQ.

Veterinary internal medicine is a specialized field that addresses health issues related to internal organs and systems in pets. This specialty encompasses a variety of conditions, including:

 

  • Kidney and liver diseases: Conditions that affect the function of these vital organs.
  • Endocrine disorders: Such as Cushing’s disease and diabetes, which disrupt hormonal balance.
  • Gastrointestinal problems: Issues that impact digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Respiratory conditions: Diseases affecting the lungs and airways.
  • Autoimmune diseases: Disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body.

You should consider seeking the expertise of a veterinary internist if your primary care veterinarian suggests it under the following circumstances:

 

  • Your pet has abnormal lab results or imaging findings.
  • Treatment is not yielding the expected results.
  • Your pet experiences recurrent vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss.
  • A chronic illness has been diagnosed that requires specialized care.
  • There are unexplained symptoms or complex health conditions that need further investigation.

At TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles, our veterinary internists employ advanced diagnostic tools and techniques, including:

  • Ultrasound and endoscopy: Non-invasive methods for visualizing internal structures.
  • Specialized blood and hormone testing: To assess organ function and hormonal levels.
  • Biopsies and tissue sampling: For definitive diagnosis of diseases.
  • Real-time monitoring: Collaborating with other specialists to ensure comprehensive care.

 

This multifaceted approach enables us to provide quicker, more precise diagnoses and tailored treatment plans for your pet.

During your visit, our team will:

  1. Review your pet’s medical history and records.
  2. Conduct a thorough physical examination.
  3. Recommend any necessary diagnostic tests to identify the underlying issue.

 

Once we determine the cause of your pet’s health concerns, we will collaborate with you and your primary veterinarian to develop a comprehensive care plan aimed at supporting your pet’s long-term health and well-being.

Choosing TrueCare for Pets Los Angeles means accessing a team of dedicated veterinary internists who specialize in complex cases. Our commitment to advanced diagnostics and collaborative care ensures that your pet receives the highest standard of medical attention tailored to their unique needs.

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