Advanced Pet Care Clinic: Pet Diagnostics & General Surgery In Bozeman, MT
Gallatin Veterinary Hospital offers a full range of internal medicine services for dogs and cats. A key to our success in treating these illnesses is the broad range of advanced diagnostic capabilities available to us at our advanced pet care clinic including:
- Digital Radiography – Digital x-rays are far superior to conventional x-rays for obtaining the detailed images necessary to make difficult diagnoses. Because they are digital, we can email them to a board-certified radiologist to read and review. Usually we can have an answer back within an hour. Dental x-rays offer a giant leap forward in the evaluation of oral health. These high resolution images detect small problems before they become a larger problem. These x-rays can be sent by e-mail to radiologists or veterinary dentists for immediate consultation.
- Ultrasound – This diagnostic tool allows detailed visualization of organs and abnormalities that can’t be seen on radiographs. They are often used together to diagnose abdominal diseases, bladder abnormalities or heart conditions.
- Radiographs - Radiographs (or x-rays) are a wonderful diagnostic tool for orthopedic trauma or disease, as well as some soft tissue problems. Gallatin Vet has invested in Computed Radiology (CR). CR is similar to digital radiology in that we end up with a digital image, instead of film. CR decreases the amount of radiation your pet will be exposed to in the long run, since we take far fewer images with it, while increasing the diagnostic value of the radiographs. Galltin Vet also prides itself on excellent radiographic technique.
- Full In-House Laboratory Services – We can perform comprehensive serum chemistry and blood-count analyses for rapid results. When routine blood work and uncommon diagnostic tests are required, we send out blood, urine and fecal samples to an outside laboratory; most results are available within 24-48 hours. The Gallatin Veterinary Hospital carries many serum tests for rapid in-house diagnostics-diseases like Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), pancreatitis, blood glucose, parvovirus, and heartworm disease. We can have results and a diagnosis within a few minutes.
- Microscopy - For evaluation of common and uncommon infections, tumors, parasites or other conditions.
The combination of our computer-based records, digitized lab work results and radiographs enable quality and rapid consultation with experts in the fields of cardiology, oncology, internal medicine, and dermatology, to name a few. Further, our doctors are members of an online community called Veterinary Information Network (VIN), which connects veterinarians around the world with each other and provides a wealth of veterinary medicine. This invaluable resource provides a wealth of information for our veterinary team in diagnosing and treating those unusual and difficult to manage cases.
We can provide further information on any of the above listed diagnostic tests. Please email us or call Gallatin Veterinary Hospital with questions or inquiries about Internal Medicine Services or our Diagnostic Capabilities
General Surgery
Your pet at some time in its life may require general surgery. Gallatin Veterinary Hospital understands the concern every owner has for their pet when they undergo general anesthesia, sedation and surgery. We have made a significant investment in facilities, equipment and staff training to minimize the risks of anesthesia and surgery. We have two state-of-the-art surgical suites, with positive pressure air flow, specific cleaning protocols and disinfectants designed to minimize the contaminants present in each area. All of our surgical instruments are sterilized with steam or gas. If an item cannot be re-sterilized it is thrown away. We are fully equipped to handle both routine and non routine surgeries. Some examples of common surgeries are spay, neuter, laceration repairs and mass removals. More involved and less common surgeries include abdominal exploratory, organ biopsy or removal, gastrointestinal surgery and eye/ear surgeries.
Spay & Neuter
Spaying or neutering your pet is an important decision to make. If you are not planning to use your pet for breeding purposes, it is in the best interest of your pet to be altered by your veterinarian. Spaying your female around 6 months of age will eliminate heat cycles, unwanted pregnancies and reduce the possibility of disease in the reproductive tract. Neutering your male around 6 months of age reduces their urge to roam, to fight and reduces prostate gland disease and testicular cancer. Your pet’s health and safety is our number one concern. At Gallatin Veterinary Hospital we like to make your decision as easy as possible. We have a dedicated well trained staff to help ensure the utmost care of your pet. GVH staff takes every measure to assure that your pet gets the best care in the valley.
Hip Dysplasia & Pennhip
Canine hip dysplasia is the most commonly inherited orthopedic disease. Hip dysplasia in our companion dogs is prevalent, especially in the medium to large breeds. Diagnosis of dysplasia is determined through clinical signs of lameness or pain and with x-rays. Usually one view of the pelvis and hips is diagnostic. Many puppies are hip guaranteed by the breeder so some puppies will go back to the breeder if hip dysplasia is detected early. Some puppies are candidates for early intervention using surgical techniques to slow the progress of the dysplasia. After 10 months of age these early surgical interventions aren’t recommended. GVH recommends survey hip x-rays at spay and neuter time. Your dog is already under anesthesia and it’s a great time to assess your dog for hip dysplasia.
There are currently two certification methods for canine hips, OFA (Orthopedic Foundation of America) and PennHIP. Both require heavy sedation and x-rays of the pelvis and hips. Early detection can permit the owner and veterinarian to make well informed decisions on early surgical intervention, controlling progression of the dysplasia, taking the dog out of the breeding pool and minimizing the pain of the disease. Early surgical intervention like JPS (juvenile pubic symphysiodesis) is most successful if done before 20 weeks of age. Please discuss hip dysplasia with your veterinarian to make informed decisions for your puppy or adult dog.
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Hours:
- Mon - Fri: 7:30am–5:30pm
Sat: 8am-3pm
Sun: Closed