Veterinary Medical Services for Pets in Charlotte, NC
From diseases of the skin, ears and eyes to the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems, Steele Creek Animal Hospital uses the latest tools and protocols to make these and other internal conditions more easily manageable for our patients.
Internal Medicine
Steele Creek Animal Hospital has a remarkably knowledgeable veterinary team with years of experience in diagnosing and treating internal problems in dogs and cats. We have the ability to treat skin disorders and allergies, respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, heart problems, urinary tract issues, neurological problems, hematologic and endocrine disorders. Since our beloved pets can’t speak for themselves when something is wrong, it’s up to us to get answers and work with pet owners to find a treatment plan that improves their quality of life. For very complex cases, we may refer patients to a specialist to confirm the best outcome.
Allergies
Allergies
Symptoms of allergies vary depending on the cause. In general, the following could be signs of an allergic reaction:
- Itchiness or hives
- Swelling of face, ears, lips, eyelids, ear flaps
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Sneezing, watery eyes or chronic ear infections
Diagnosing allergies is often complicated. Food allergies are often diagnosed with an elimination diet. Flea allergy dermatitis is treated by eliminating fleas. More extensive tests include blood work, biopsy and fungal cultures. Please contact us to get an accurate diagnosis and help your pet feel better fast.
Skin Diseases
Skin Diseases
Atopic dermatitis, ringworm, flea allergy dermatitis, sarcoptic and demodectic mange, and other conditions can be challenging to treat. Identifying early signs is important, such as:
- Inflamed ears
- Reoccurring hot spots
- Scratching or rubbing eyes or mouth
- Skin lesions, hair loss or red itchy bumps
- Asthma like wheezing or respiratory issues
We will work with you and your pet to diagnose and effectively treat their condition.
Eye Care
Eye Care
Dogs and cats can get cataracts, dry eyes, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, and eyelid deformities. If you see anything unusual about your pet’s eyes, contact us immediately, as their condition can worsen quickly. Signs of an eye problem include redness, discharge from the eyes, rubbing the eyes, and squinting/difficulty seeing.
To diagnose an eye problem, we can do an ophthalmoscopic exam, fluorescein staining of the cornea, a Schirmer Tear Test, culture/cytology, and tonometry to check pressure in the eye. Some eye conditions require surgery to correct. If your pet needs specialized eye care, we can refer them to a veterinary ophthalmologist.
Ear Care
Ear Care
Your pet's ears are his organs of hearing and balance. Good ear care is essential to help in the prevention of ear disorders. If you notice your pet shaking his head, scratching at ears or head, any smell or discharge, brown particles or reluctance to let you near his head or ears, please contact us quickly. Ear conditions are unlikely to clear up on their own and some breeds are more prone to them. Your vet can show you how to clean your pets ears properly and we will diagnose and treat any ear problems your pet is experiencing.
Orthopedics
Orthopedics
Our rehabilitation center offers many different therapies to address the problems that accompany issues of the bones and joints. This includes arthritis, hip and elbow dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, and more. Guided exercises, laser therapy, hydrotherapy, heat or cold therapy, acupuncture, and custom braces are just a few examples of what we can provide to relieve orthopedic discomfort and improve mobility.
Neurology
Neurology
Nervous system disorders can severely impact your pet’s quality of life. While seizures and paralysis can be alarming, treatment is possible with the right program. We offer many different treatment options, and if need be, we can refer your pet to a neurology specialist. Common neurological issues in pets include:
- Seizures
- Weakness or paralysis
- Vestibular disease
- Spinal tumors or fractures
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Brain tumors or trauma
- Encephalitis and meningitis
Oncology & Cancer Care
Oncology & Cancer Care
Now more than ever, veterinary medicine can help dogs and cats with cancer live longer, happier lives. The key to treating cancer successfully involves early detection with the help of a thorough examination including X-rays, ultrasounds, and other tests for a definitive diagnosis.
Cancer treatments vary depending on the type of cancer, and where it is located in the body. Surgical removal of tumors is often indicated, but other types of cancer may require chemotherapy. Animals can experience side effects from chemotherapy, but generally tolerate it well.
Hematology & Immunology
Hematology & Immunology
At Steele Creek Animal Hospital, our veterinary team can also address blood and immune disorders, such as:
- Anemia
- Blood parasites
- Feline Leukemia
- Blood disorders
- Immune mediated disorders
- Lymphoid and splenic disorders
Cardiology
Cardiology
Our doctors are skilled in diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the heart. If one of our veterinarians suspects a problem they will recommend the appropriate diagnostic plan to evaluate their concerns.
Some of the more common heart problems are:
- Heartworm Disease- Dogs and Cats
- Degenerative Valve Disease
- Dialated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)- Common in large dogs.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy- More common feline heart disease.
- Heart Arrhythmias and Congenital Heart Disease
- Hypertention and Heart Failure
Respiratory
Respiratory
Common signs of respiratory problems include:
- Coughing, gagging after coughing
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Nasal Congestion or blue gums
- Exercise intolerance of fainting
If your pet experiences any of these please call us quickly, it could be signs of conditions such as:
- Bronchitis or Pneumonia
- Feline viral disease complex (Herpes, Calicivirus)
- Infectious Tracheobronchitis (kennel cough)
- Pulmonary edema or congestion
- Chest trauma