Specialty Referral Practice

Internal Medicine

Internal medicine specialists manage a wide variety of complex conditions. These include digestive disorders (gastrointestinal, liver disease), diseases of the heart and kidneys, endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism and diabetes, and respiratory problems. Internists also perform special procedures such as endoscopy, ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI, in addition to managing comprehensive cancer treatment. Santa Cruz Veterinary Hospital is one of a handful of facilities in Northern California to provide radiation therapy and radioactive iodine (I-131) therapy for hyperthyroidism.

If your pet is hospitalized, you are welcome to visit in most cases. We may recommend that you not visit in some cases, due to the needs and comfort of your pet. If the doctor has determined that it is in your pet’s best interest to visit, please call us to set up a convenient time so that our ICU may accommodate you more comfortably.

Internal Medicine Appointments -- Dr. Rinkardt sees patients in scheduled appointments from 9:00 am- 3:30 pm Monday- Thursday, holidays excluded. Initial appointments are 60 minutes in length to allow a thorough examination of your pet. Progress exam appointments are generally 40-60 minutes in length. To schedule an appointment, please call our referral coordinator or client service desk.  For all initial appointments, please bring all medical records, lab work, x-rays, and medications with you. Patients should be restricted from food for 12 hours preceding an appointment with the internist.