1. What does a veterinary internal medicine specialist do?

A veterinary internal medicine specialist is a board‑certified veterinarian trained to diagnose and treat complex, chronic, and multifaceted medical conditions. At Peak, internal medicine specialists use advanced diagnostic tools, including ultrasound, endoscopy, CT scans, and minimally invasive procedures, to investigate diseases of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, endocrine, renal, and immune systems.

2. When should I bring my pet to an internal medicine specialist?

Your primary veterinarian may recommend an internal medicine referral when:

• Your pet has a chronic or recurring health issue

• A diagnosis is unclear after initial testing

• Advanced diagnostics (e.g., ultrasound, CT, endoscopy) are needed

• Your pet requires long‑term management for a complex disease

  Our internists specialize in evaluating persistent or complicated medical concerns that go beyond routine care.

3. What is the difference between an internal medicine specialist and my primary care veterinarian?

Your primary veterinarian provides general wellness care, routine diagnostics, and treatment for many common conditions. Internal medicine specialists, on the other hand, complete additional years of residency training and certification (DACVIM) to focus on advanced diagnostics and complex disease management. They have specialized equipment and expertise for in‑depth testing such as bronchoscopy, endoscopy, bone marrow sampling, and ultrasound‑guided biopsies.

4. How is an internal medicine specialist different from my regular veterinarian?

The difference is largely in training, equipment, and the complexity of cases. While your regular veterinarian handles general care, our internists manage the difficult or chronic conditions that require advanced imaging, minimally invasive procedures, or specialized therapies. They work in collaboration with your family vet to ensure continuity of care.

5. What happens during a veterinary internal medicine appointment?

During an internal medicine appointment at Peak, you can expect:

1. A detailed review of your pet’s medical history

2. A thorough physical exam

3. Discussion of symptoms and concerns

4. Recommendationsfordiagnostictesting tailored to your pet’s condition

5. A treatmentplan based on test results or clinical findings

Our team emphasizes compassionate, thoughtful communication throughout the process.

6. What diagnostic tests might be recommended for my pet?

Internal medicine diagnostics at Peak may include:

• Abdominal or thoracic ultrasound

• Radiography (X‑rays)

• CT scans

• Endoscopy (gastroscopy, colonoscopy, rhinoscopy, bronchoscopy, cystoscopy)

• Blood pressure and blood gas monitoring

• Bone marrow aspirates or biopsies

• Ultrasound‑guided tissue sampling

• Nutritional tube placement (NE, NG, esophagostomy, PEG)

• Joint or airway sampling (e.g., bronchoalveolar lavage)

These tools help specialists develop accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.

7. Can pets live normal lives with chronic internal diseases?

Yes! Many pets with chronic internal conditions (such as kidney disease, IBD, endocrine issues, or immune‑mediated diseases) can live comfortable, happy lives with appropriate long‑term management. Our internists excel in ongoing medical management, especially for geriatric or chronically ill pets.

8. Do I need a referral to see a veterinary internist?

While many patients are referred by their primary care veterinarians, we also accept direct appointment requests depending on the situation. Referrals help ensure your pet’s full medical history is communicated, but our team welcomes all clients seeking specialized care.

9. What should I do if my pet’s condition worsens before their internal medicine appointment?

If your pet’s condition declines before your scheduled appointment, contact us immediately. Our urgent care service provides support when primary veterinarians are unavailable, and we can help determine whether your pet needs to be seen sooner.

10. Will my regular veterinarian still be involved in my pet’s care?

Absolutely. Our specialists collaborate closely with primary veterinarians, sharing diagnostic findings and treatment plans. This partnership ensures coordinated care and continuity between general practice and specialty services.