If your pet has been referred to our internal medicine specialists (internists), or if you’ve reached out to us directly, you might be wondering what to expect. Understandably, this can be a worrisome time. We’re here to guide you through the process, providing expert care and unwavering support as we work together to get your pet back to their happy, healthy self.
To ensure we get the best results of any testing and procedures, we may need to prepare your pet with specific fasting instructions. This typically involves withholding breakfast and certain medications on the morning of their appointment. Please note that water should always be available. Young puppies and kittens as well as diabetic patients have unique metabolic needs, and fasting them may require specific instructions. Please contact our staff before withholding food from very young or small pets or those with diabetes.
Certain medications, such as insulin, heart, seizure, pain, and specific hormone medications, should continue to be administered as directed. If you have any concerns or questions regarding your pet’s medication schedule, please reach out to our team for clarification.
For pets presenting with urinary or diarrhea issues, please bring a fresh urine or fecal sample collected within six hours of the appointment. Alternatively, if you attempt to avoid having your pet urinate/defecate prior to the appointment, we can collect a sample when you arrive.
To ensure we can provide the most effective care, we recommend bringing a few essential items to your appointment. While your family veterinarian may have already sent your pet’s medical records to our internist, it’s beneficial to bring the following:
- Current Medications: Please bring all medications your pet is currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, heartworm, and flea preventatives. Tip: Take a picture of any refrigerated medications and leave those at home.
- Medication History: If your pet has recently been on medications, a list detailing what medications were tried, which were effective, and which were not, can be very helpful.
- Diagnostic Records: If you have copies of your pet’s X-rays and/or blood work from your family veterinarian, please bring them.
Upon arrival, a veterinary technician will conduct a thorough history assessment, gathering information about your pet’s symptoms and illness. This may include questions that are already in your pet’s records, but this allows us to gain a deeper understanding of your pet’s condition from your perspective. Detailed observations are crucial. And yes, we frequently see photos of stool and vomit, so please don’t hesitate to show us anything that might be relevant!
You will be asked about your pet’s appetite, behavior, stools, urination, and other relevant factors. Depending on your pet’s symptoms, we may ask more specific questions about the appearance and frequency of stools, or if your pet is vomiting after meals and how long after. Notes or pictures can be incredibly useful in these situations. If you’re unsure about what you’re observing at home, simply describe it to the best of your ability; our staff will be able to piece the information together.
If your pet has been coughing or experiencing changes in breathing, travel history can also be significant. This includes visits to dog parks, boarding facilities or trips to different states where your pet may have swum or hiked.
After gathering your pet’s history, our internist will consult with you one-on-one and recommend appropriate testing and/or treatment. Common tests include ultrasound, X-rays, and blood or urine tests. Internal medicine conditions can be complex, so a variety of tests may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of your pet’s illness. Our specialists and technicians will clearly explain the rationale behind each recommendation and the goals of any additional tests or medications.
Open communication is essential during — and importantly, after — your appointment. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions, advocate for your pet, and express any concerns or preferences you may have. We are confident that, working together, we can help your pet regain their health and well-being.
