Decoding Pet Mysteries: New Internal Medicine Service at OSU
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Media Contact: Kinsey Reed | Communications Specialist | 405-744-6740 | kinsey.reed@okstate.edu
Do you have a dog or cat with one or more complex medical conditions? Perhaps you’re unsure what’s causing your furry friend to feel unwell, or the prescribed medications don’t seem to be helping as expected. If so, we have exciting news for you!
The Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at Oklahoma State University reopened its Small Animal Internal Medicine service this summer to improve access to specialized care for dogs and cats in the area. This veterinary specialty is often recommended for families with pets dealing with complicated and/or chronic conditions and their primary veterinarians.
Internists are veterinarians who have undergone advanced training to diagnose better and manage (often long-term) a wide range of complex health problems in both dogs and cats. Veterinary internists specialize in all things internal, such as gastrointestinal issues (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease or IBD), autoimmune disorders (e.g. systemic lupus), endocrine diseases (e.g. diabetes or high thyroid levels), respiratory problems (e.g. asthma or bronchitis), urinary conditions (e.g. kidney disease and stones), and even diagnose certain types of cancers.
To ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans, internists work closely with clients and primary veterinarians to find out what is wrong. Depending on the pet’s clinical signs, an internist may recommend complex blood/urine tests, advanced imaging (e.g. ultrasound, computed tomography, or fluoroscopy), and/or certain specialized procedures (e.g. endoscopy, feeding tube placement, or other interventional therapies). This comprehensive approach allows veterinary internists to create individualized treatment strategies tailored to the unique needs of pets and their families.
The reopening of this new service at the veterinary teaching hospital is part of OSU‘s ongoing mission to provide the best care with compassion and concern for the health and well-being of every client and their pet.
Note: To request an appointment or consultation with Small Animal Internal Medicine, please call the OSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital at 405-744-7000. Further information can be found on the VMTH's website and Facebook page.
About the author: Dr. Ana Costa is a clinical assistant professor in Small Animal Internal Medicine and is a board-certified internist.
Veterinary Viewpoints is provided by the faculty of the OSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. Certified by the American Animal Hospital Association, the hospital is open to the public providing routine and specialized care for all species, as well as emergency care. Call 405-744-7000 for an appointment or see more information at vetmed.okstate.edu.