Internal Medicine

Endoscopy

Many diagnostic procedures that once required major surgery can now be accomplished through less invasive endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques. The techniques result in more rapid recovery time for the patient. These advances are due to high-tech fiber optics technology, which aids in the direct visualization, biopsy, and surgical manipulation of many of your pet’s internal structures and organs. This allows our doctors to perform minimally invasive diagnostics and surgical procedures on areas that are otherwise very difficult to access.

Digital Radiology

Dickinson Animal Hospital & Pet Wellness Center is one of the only veterinary facilities in the area to have state-of-the-art direct digital radiography (DDR). In our primary radiology suite, we are able to obtain highly detailed x-ray images that our doctors can further enhance, magnify, and even send to a specialist in veterinary radiology for further evaluation. In addition, we provide a copy of the radiographs on disk for you to show your family and friends.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound technology uses sound waves to painlessly examine internal structures. We perform evaluations of both abdominal and thoracic structures (especially the heart). Because ultrasound gives us live action images, we are able to see the heart “in action”, where we can take measurements of how well it is functioning. Ultrasound is also used for obtaining biopsy samples, and can even be used to look at tendons as well as structures within the eye.

Laboratory Testing

For the convenience of our clients and for rapid results of routine diagnostic testing on our patients, we maintain a full on-site diagnostic lab. For more specialized testing, we use an outside lab service that picks up samples from our hospital on a daily basis. Turnaround time is rapid, and results are downloaded directly into your pet’s medical records through our integrated management software. The combination of these capabilities puts the ability to find answers to your pet’s problems at our fingertips, day in and day out.

Emergency and Critical Care

Emergencies are always stressful; the concern over the unknown can cause panic in both pets and their owners. We always see emergencies as soon as they come in; our doctors and staff are well trained to recognize and address these situations rapidly and efficiently. Our doctors will make an initial assessment of your pet as soon as he/she is deemed stable, and will talk to you as soon as possible. Your pet will be the immediate concern of our entire staff. We are always prepared to offer emergency care during regular business hours. After hours, we use the services of a local, fully staffed emergency center just minutes from our hospital. If possible, call ahead; this allows us time to prepare for your arrival.