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What is Veterinary Internal Medicine?

Veterinary internal medicine involves diagnosing and treating complex conditions that affect your pet’s internal organs and body systems.

Some health issues go beyond what routine check-ups can uncover. When your pet experiences chronic symptoms, unexplained illness, or difficult-to-manage conditions, internal medicine helps us get to the root of the problem.

At Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Richmond, our team uses advanced diagnostics and targeted treatment plans to manage conditions affecting the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, lungs, endocrine system, and more. If your pet is facing an ongoing health concern, we’re here to provide answers—and a path toward better health.

What Conditions Fall Under Internal Medicine?

Internal medicine includes a wide range of complex health issues that affect your pet’s internal organs and systems, often requiring in-depth diagnostics, long-term care, and advanced medical expertise. These conditions can be difficult to detect and manage without the proper tools and experience. At Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Richmond, our team is equipped to identify and treat these illnesses with a focus on your pet’s comfort, long-term health, and overall well-being.

Common internal medicine conditions in pets include:

Endocrine Disorders — Diabetes, thyroid disease, Cushing’s disease, and adrenal gland dysfunction

Gastrointestinal Diseases — Chronic vomiting, diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver or pancreatic disorders

Respiratory Conditions — Asthma, pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, and lung disease

Kidney & Urinary Tract Disorders — Chronic kidney disease, bladder infections, urinary stones, and incontinence

Infectious Diseases — Bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections that impact organ function and overall health

Hematology (Blood Disorders) — Anemia, clotting disorders, and immune-mediated blood conditions

Oncology (Cancer Care) — Diagnosis and treatment of tumors, lymphoma, and other cancers

Cardiology (Heart Disease) — Hypertension, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, and structural heart defects

Immune-Mediated Diseases — Autoimmune disorders that attack the body’s own organs or blood cells

Count On Your Neighbors for Complete Care

At NVC Richmond, we’re proud to offer a wide range of internal medicine services under one roof—so your pet can continue receiving the care they need from a team you know and trust. From diagnostics to treatment, our focus is always on delivering thorough, effective care with compassion and expertise.

Here’s how we support your pet through more complex health concerns:

Collaborative Care — Our experienced veterinarians work together to evaluate challenging cases, ensuring every diagnosis and treatment plan is thoughtfully developed and based on a full understanding of your pet’s condition.

Laboratory Diagnostics — Our on-site lab allows us to perform a broad range of diagnostic tests quickly and accurately, so we can get answers and begin treatment without delay.

Advanced imaging — We offer both digital X-rays and ultrasound, providing detailed imaging that helps us better understand your pet’s internal health and guide our treatment decisions.

Expanded Testing When Needed – For conditions that require deeper analysis, we partner with trusted national diagnostic labs to access additional testing and expert input.

Comprehensive Procedures & Treatments – Our team can perform advanced procedures such as biopsies, fluid analysis, bloodwork, immunotherapy, and supportive care. We’ll walk you through all available treatment options and offer guidance tailored to your pet’s condition.

Expert Care with Ongoing Support

Beyond diagnosis and treatment, we believe in keeping you informed every step of the way. Our internal medicine team takes the time to explain your pet’s condition, how it affects their daily life, and what you can expect moving forward.

As your pet’s primary caregiver, you play a vital role in their health. That’s why we’re committed to giving you the tools, guidance, and confidence to care for your pet at home—between visits to Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Richmond.

Common Internal Medicine FAQ's

What are the Signs That My Pet Might Need Internal Medicine Care?

Pets with chronic vomiting or diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, increased thirst or urination, persistent coughing, behavior changes, or fatigue may be showing signs of an internal health issue. If your pet’s symptoms are ongoing, subtle, or difficult to pinpoint, internal medicine can help uncover the cause.

How is Internal Medicine Different from a Regular Check-Up?

While general wellness exams focus on prevention and routine care, internal medicine addresses persistent or complicated medical issues. It often involves advanced diagnostics, like imaging, blood panels, and biopsies, to reach a diagnosis when symptoms aren’t obvious or multiple systems are affected.

Can Internal Medicine Conditions in Pets be Managed Long-Term?

Yes. Many internal medicine conditions—like Cushing’s disease, IBD, or chronic kidney disease—can be effectively managed with medication, dietary changes, and regular monitoring. Our team will create a plan tailored to your pet’s diagnosis and lifestyle to ensure the best possible quality of life.

A better, happier life starts now!

If your pet is experiencing health issues, our team at Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Richmond is here to help. Call us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward ensuring your pet's health and well-being.

Schedule AppointmentCall Now: (281) 645-0666