VetSpoke

27/06/2024

🐾 VetSpoke FAQ: Essential Info for Pet Parents! 🐾

After the recent success of FAQ v 1.0 we decided to follow with another session of FAQ!

Q: What types of specialists are available on VetSpoke?
A: VetSpoke connects you with a range of specialists, including orthopaedic, cardiology, dermatology, neurology, oncology, anaesthesia and more. Our experts are trained to handle the most complicated pet health concerns 🏥🐶🐱

Q: Can VetSpoke help with emergency situations?⚠️
A: While VetSpoke is excellent for specialist advice, it is not designed for immediate emergency care. For emergencies, please contact your nearest emergency veterinary clinic. 🚑

Q: How do I schedule a consultation with a VetSpoke specialist?
A: Simply sign up on our platform, choose the type of specialist you need, and start the web chat with our specialist. It's quick and convenient! 📅💬

Q: What information should I prepare for a consultation? 📋
A: Have your pet’s medical history, current medications, and any recent test results ready: you can upload them on our chat!
Detailed information helps our specialists provide the best advice possible. 🐾

Do you have other questions? Just message us or comment below and we will make sure your answer is included in the next FAQ post!

Contact us today to learn more and get the best care for your beloved pets! 🏥✨

24/06/2024

🐾 Understanding Fractures in Dogs and Cats 🐱🐶

Attention all pet parents! Today, we’re focusing on a serious injury that can affect our beloved pets: Fractures. 🦴
These breaks or cracks in bones can cause significant pain and mobility issues, necessitating prompt medical attention and surgery.

💡 Clinical signs to watch for include:
• Limping or inability to bear weight on a limb
• Swelling or bruising around the injured area
• Visible deformity in the limb
• Signs of pain such as whining, yowling, or avoiding touch

Fractures can occur in dogs and cats due to various causes, including falls, accidents, or trauma. Early detection and treatment are vital to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.

At VetSpoke, we’re dedicated to helping you understand fractures and guiding you through the best diagnostic and treatment options for your pets and pain management. Our team of EBVS (ebvs.eu) specialists is here to support you every step of the way.

Did your pet ever break a bone? Please share your experience and thoughts with us to help other pet parents stay informed. 💌

👉 Follow us for more insights on pet health, and feel free to comment below if you have any questions about fractures or your pet’s well-being.

20/06/2024

🐾 Understanding Elbow Dysplasia in Dogs 🐶

Attention all pet parents! Today, we highlight a prevalent joint condition affecting our dogs: Elbow Dysplasia. This developmental disorder in the elbow joint can lead to chronic pain and lameness, significantly impacting your dog’s quality of life.

Signs to watch for include:
• Limping or favouring one leg
• tiffness, particularly after rest
• Swelling around the elbow joint
• Reluctance to engage in play or exercise

Elbow dysplasia is quite common in dogs, especially in larger breeds such as Labradors and Golden Retrievers,. Early detection through routine veterinary check-ups is essential, as many dogs with elbow dysplasia might not show clinical signs initially.

At VetSpoke, we’re dedicated to helping you understand elbow dysplasia and guiding you through the best diagnostic and treatment options for your pets. Our team of EBVS (ebvs.eu) specialists is here to support you every step of the way, from surgery to pain management.

👉 Follow us for more insights on pet health, and feel free to comment below if you have any questions about elbow dysplasia or your pet’s well-being.

17/06/2024

🐾 Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Dogs 🐶

Attention all pet parents! Today, we’re shining a light on a common orthopaedic condition that affects our canine companions: Hip Dysplasia. This developmental disorder in the hip joint can cause chronic pain and mobility issues, significantly impacting your dog’s quality of life.

Signs to watch for include:
- Difficulty rising from a lying or sitting position
- Decreased activity or reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs
- Swaying gait or “bunny hopping” when running
- Visible discomfort or pain when touching the hip area

Hip dysplasia is particularly prevalent in large and giant breed dogs, such as German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Rottweilers. Early detection through routine veterinary check-ups is crucial, as many dogs with hip dysplasia may not show symptoms initially.

At VetSpoke, we’re committed to helping you understand hip dysplasia and navigate the best diagnostic and treatment options for your pets. Our team of EBVS (ebvs.eu) specialists is here to support you every step of the way, from surgical advice to pain management.

👉 Follow us for more insights on pet health, and don’t hesitate to comment below if you have any questions about hip dysplasia or your pet’s well-being.

14/06/2024

🐾 Understanding Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease (CCLD) in Dogs 🐶

Attention all pet parents! Today, we’re shedding light on a common orthopaedic condition that affects our dogs: Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease (CCLD). This condition, involving the partial or complete rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in the stifle (knee), can cause significant pain and mobility issues.

Clinical signs to watch for include:
• Limping or lameness in the hind leg
• Difficulty rising or sitting
• Swelling around the knee joint
• Reluctance to play, run, or jump
CCLD is particularly prevalent in active and large breed dogs, such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Boxers and Rottweilers. Early detection through routine veterinary check-ups is crucial, as many dogs with CCLD may initially show only subtle clinical signs.

At VetSpoke, we’re committed to helping you understand cranial cruciate ligament disease and navigate the best diagnostic and treatment and surgical options for your dog. Our team of EBVS (ebvs.eu) specialists is here to support you every step of the way.

👉 Follow us for more insights on pet health, and don’t hesitate to comment below if you have any questions about CCLD or your pet’s well-being.

11/06/2024

🐾 June is Orthopaedic Month at VetSpoke! 🌟
This month, we're focusing on your pets' bone and joint health. Connect with our expert specialists for top-notch advice and care. 🏥🐶🐱
Let's keep your pets active and happy!

10/06/2024

🚀 Welcome to VetSpoke! 🐾 Our easy onboarding process ensures you get the best specialist advice for your pet in no time. Watch this quick screen record to see how simple it is to connect with our expert veterinarians. From sign-up to your first consultation, we've got you covered. 🌟 Ready to elevate your pet's care? 🏥✨
Drop us a message if you have any questions! 🐶🐱

07/05/2024

🐾 Paws and Answers: VetSpoke's Top FAQs answered! 🔍📖

1️⃣ What is VetSpoke and how does it work?

VetSpoke is an online platform that connects you with veterinary specialists for advice and support on your pet’s health condition. You can chat with a specialist in real-time, share images and videos, and get a written report with recommendations for diagnosis and treatment. You can use VetSpoke on any device with a browser and internet connection, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.

2️⃣ How does it work?

VetSpoke can help you as a pet parent by providing you with access to expert guidance and second opinions from specialists in various fields of veterinary medicine. You can get the best up-to-date advice and care for your pet, without having to travel or wait for a referral. You can also learn more about your pet’s condition and how to manage it at home.

3️⃣ What are the specialities offered by VetSpoke and who are the specialists?
The specialities offered by VetSpoke include cardiology, dermatology, internal medicine, neurology, oncology, orthopaedics, soft tissue surgery, diagnostic imaging, anaesthesia and pain management and more. The specialists are EBVS-boarded veterinary specialists, which means they have completed rigorous training and examinations in their respective fields. They are also experienced clinicians who work in referral centres or universities across Europe and the US.

4️⃣ Can I claim VetSpoke costs through my insurance?

This depends on the type and terms of your pet insurance policy. Some policies may cover the cost of online consultations with specialists, while others may not. You should check with your insurance provider before using VetSpoke to see if you are eligible for reimbursement.

Do you have any questions? Message us here or on [email protected]!

27/04/2024

🐾 Understanding Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in Dogs 🐶

Attention all pet parents! Today, we’re shedding light on a serious heart condition that affects our canine companions: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). This disease causes the heart to enlarge and weaken, leading to reduced pumping ability and potential heart failure.

Clinical signs to watch for include
🖤Lethargy
🖤Difficulty breathing
🖤 Fainting episodes

DCM is relatively common in dogs, with certain breeds like Dobermanns being more predisposed. Early detection through screening is crucial, especially since many dogs with DCM may not show symptoms initially.

At VetSpoke, we’re committed to helping you understand DCM and navigate the best diagnostic and treatment options for your furry family member. Our team of EBVS (ebvs.eu) specialists is here to support you every step of the way.

👉 Follow us for more insights on pet health, and don’t hesitate to comment below if you have any questions about DCM or your pet’s well-being.

14/04/2024

Did you know Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease in cats? 💛🖤
It’s a condition where the heart muscle thickens, making it hard for the heart to pump blood efficiently. 😿 While some cats may show no signs, others might experience breathlessness or lethargy. 😼

Certain breeds like Maine C***s, Ragdolls, Sphynx, and British Shorthairs show a higher predisposition. 🐾 Early detection is key, so regular vet check-ups are essential. 🩺 An echocardiogram can reveal HCM even before symptoms appear, helping manage your cat’s health proactively. 🚑

For cats diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the treatment plan may include medications like clopidogrel to prevent blood clots and furosemide to manage symptoms of congestive heart failure by removing excess fluid from the chest and abdomen. 💊 Other medications that might be used are ACE inhibitors or atenolol, a beta-blocker, to manage heart rate and blood pressure. ❤️‍🩹

Additionally, clinical trials are exploring new drug therapies, including small molecule inhibitors and rapamycin, to inspire the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. 🧬 However, it’s important to note that evidence demonstrating long-term survival benefits of new treatments is currently lacking.📊

Join the conversation and learn more about feline heart health at VetSpoke.com. 🐱💬 📢 Don’t wait for symptoms to appear.🐈‍⬛👩‍⚕️

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Feel free to share this message to spread awareness and encourage proactive pet health care! 📣🐾

10/04/2024

Did you know cats can also have heart murmurs? 😺❤️ Just like dogs, these murmurs can range from harmless to signs of serious conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which can be life-threatening if untreated.

What’s a heart murmur? It’s an unusual sound detected by a stethoscope, caused by turbulent blood flow in the heart. Innocent murmurs are common in kittens and healthy cats and often resolve with age or after exercise. Pathological murmurs, however, indicate diseases like HCM, leading to thickened heart muscles and restricted blood flow.

How to distinguish between murmurs? 🩺 Echocardiography is key. This non-invasive ultrasound test reveals the heart’s size, shape, and function, helping vets craft the right treatment plan.

Choose VetSpoke for your cat’s heart care. Our platform connects you with board-certified cardiologists for expert advice. Get peace of mind with VetSpoke. 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️

04/04/2024

Exploring Mitral Valve Degenerative Disease (MVDD) 🐶💔

Mitral Valve Degenerative Disease is the most common heart condition in dogs, especially in older and smaller breeds. It’s a progressive disease where the heart’s mitral valve weakens and fails to close properly, leading to blood leakage back into the left atrium.

Echocardiography: A Closer Look at MVDD 🩺

An echocardiogram is vital for diagnosing MVDD, allowing cardiologists to visualise the heart in real-time and assess the extent of valve degeneration and leakage as well as chamber size. This imaging is key to determining the best management plan for your pet.

MVDD: staging is key! 🗝️

MVDD can be classified in 5 stages: A, B1 and B2 are asymptomatic (no clinicals signs), C and D are symptomatic with difficult, rapid breathing as well as lethargy.
Stage A includes predisposed breeds such as Cavaliers King Charles Spaniels.
Stage B1 includes dogs with a mitral leakage but overall normal chambers size
Stage B2 includes dogs with a mitral leakage and enlarged heart size. We can start medications here.
Stage C includes dogs in congestive heart failure (accumulation of fluid in the lungs due to excessive leakage) and this requires further medications such as water tablets to control it.
Stage D includes dogs with heart failure that does not respond anymore to routine therapy.

VetSpoke: Specialized Care for Your Pet’s Heart 🌐

At VetSpoke, we connect you with board-certified veterinary cardiologists who can provide expert advice on managing MVDD. Our specialists are equipped to support you with comprehensive consultations and tailored treatment plans.

Connect with VetSpoke 💬

If you suspect your dog might be affected by MVDD or you’re looking for expert cardiac care, visit VetSpoke.com. Let’s give your pet the heart care they deserve.



Awareness is the first step to prevention. Share this post to help others learn about MVDD.
VetSpoke - The online platform for veterinary specialists advice. 🐾

29/03/2024

A heart murmur is an abnormal sound that can be heard when auscultating the heart with a stethoscope. It is caused by turbulent blood flow and this can be through the heart valves or chambers.

Some heart murmurs are harmless and do not affect the health or lifespan of your dog. These are called innocent or physiological murmurs. They are often found in young puppies or athletic dogs and usually disappear as they grow older or after exercise.

However, some heart murmurs are a sign of a serious heart condition, such as congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed later in life) heart defects. These are called pathological murmurs. They can lead to heart failure, fainting, or sudden death if left untreated.

How can you tell the difference between an innocent and a pathological murmur? 🩺

The best way to diagnose the cause and severity of a heart murmur is to perform an echocardiography. This is a non-invasive test that uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart and its structures. It can measure the size, shape, function, and blood flow of the heart, and detect any abnormalities or defects.

Echocardiography is the gold standard for evaluating heart murmurs in dogs. It can help you and your vet decide on the best treatment plan for your dog, whether it is medication, surgery, or monitoring.

Why should you choose VetSpoke for your dog’s heart health? 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️

VetSpoke is an online platform that offers veterinary specialists advice. We have a team of board-certified cardiologists who can advise and review echocardiography results or images.

You can select cardiology advice through our website, and chat to top notch cardiology specialists from your laptop or smartphone.
VetSpoke is convenient, affordable, and reliable. We aim to provide the best care for your dog’s heart health and help you prevent or manage any heart problems that may arise.

If you are interested in getting specialist advice for your dog or want to learn more about our services, please visit our website or contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you! 😊

VetSpoke - The online platform for veterinary specialists advice. 🐾

27/03/2024

🐾 Welcome to VetSpoke’s Heart Health Series! 🐾

We’re excited to announce our upcoming series of posts focused on cardiology prevention and essential tips for your pets’ heart health. Our board-certified veterinary specialists will share their insights on:

💛 Understanding common heart diseases in dogs and cats 🐱🐶
💛 Early detection and screening of heart conditions
💛 Common therapies and new research findings

Stay tuned and join us in keeping our pets’ hearts beating strong!

Follow us for more updates and become a part of our community dedicated to the best in pet care. Please register for our free newsletter at vetspoke.com 💡

18/03/2024

🐾 Attention Labrador Lovers! 🐾

Recent research has uncovered something fascinating about our furry friends: the POMC gene mutation. This genetic twist, found in about a quarter of Labradors, leads to an increased appetite and a reduced resting metabolism1. That’s right, it’s not just their love for treats; it’s in their DNA!

What does this mean for your Lab? They may feel hungrier between meals and require fewer calories to maintain their weight. It’s a double-edged sword that makes managing their diet even more crucial to prevent obesity2.

But don’t worry, with proper care your Lab can lead a healthy, happy life. And remember, every Lab is unique!

📸 We’d love to see your Labradors! 📸

Share your photos and stories in the comments below. How do you keep your Lab fit and healthy? Let’s spread the word and help each other out!

VetSpoke - Your go-to platform for veterinary specialist advice. Because every pet deserves the best care. 💚

Reference:
Raffan, E., Farooqi, I., O'Rahilly, S. and Yeo, G., 2023, December. Low resting metabolic rate and increased hunger due to β-MSH and β-endorphin deletion in a canine model. American Association for the Advancement of Science.

14/03/2024

Best of Luck to All ECVIM-CA Exam Candidates! 🍀

As our colleagues embark on the pivotal ECVIM-CA exams, we at VetSpoke.com extend our heartfelt wishes for success. Your dedication to veterinary excellence is an inspiration to us all.

May your knowledge shine and your expertise flourish. Good luck!



We’re rooting for each of you to achieve great results!

VetSpoke allows you to connect with veterinary specialists ensuring access to the highest quality of care for our pets!

04/02/2024

Today is a big day for many residents in small and large animal surgery. After years of rigorous training, countless hours of study, and unwavering commitment they will be taking their final exam to become specialists. Let's send our best wishes and positive vibes to all the hardworking residents stepping into this challenge today.

To our future specialists, we believe in you! You've got this! 🌟📚🔬

01/01/2024

🎉 Happy New Year, Veterinary Superstars! 🎉

Wishing you a paws-itively amazing 2024 filled with fur-tastic diagnoses, tail-wagging recoveries, and a clinic full of happy patients!
DALL-E did not want to accept we are not yet in 2029...

May your stethoscopes never tangle, your coffee be always hot, and your clients' Google searches for pet symptoms lead them straight to your expertise! 🐾💙

Here's to more consultations, fewer hairballs, and a year ahead filled with laughter and success in every paw-sible way! 🚀🐶🐱

28/12/2023

🩺 Elevating Veterinary Care Through Specialist Advice! 📚

Are you a dedicated veterinary professional looking to enhance your practice?

👩‍⚕️ With VetSpoke, gain direct access to a network of top-tier veterinary specialists, all from the convenience of your clinic.

✨ Why Choose VetSpoke?
- Receive tailored advice in 48 hours and a follow-up of 30 days!
- Collaborate with leading specialists to work on complex cases
- Easy access to expertise, 24/7, ensuring optimal patient care

🎉 Tailored for Veterinary Surgeons:
- Learn as you work: improve your diagnostic and treatment capabilities
- Stay at the forefront of veterinary medicine
- Enhance the quality of care for your patients

🌐 VetSpoke is more than a platform; it's a partnership in advancing veterinary healthcare 👉 Integrate VetSpoke into your practice and elevate your standard of care!

🚀 Click now to explore how VetSpoke can enhance your veterinary practice! 🚀

Learn while we work together to find the best course of action for our patients. Morevover, we have a whole Academy section dedicated to learning material - and it’s free!

24/12/2023

🎄 Wishing You a Joyful Christmas from VetSpoke! 🎄

As we celebrate the season of giving, VetSpoke extends warm wishes to all dedicated veterinary surgeons. May your holidays be filled with moments of joy and well-deserved relaxation. 🎁

In the spirit of giving, VetSpoke is proud to announce that, on behalf of our community, we have donated 300 vaccines for polio through . Together, we can make a meaningful impact beyond the veterinary world. 💉

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence in veterinary care. May the new year bring continued success and advancements in specialized consultations through VetSpoke. 🙌

🐾 Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year from the VetSpoke Team! 🐾

18/12/2023

🌟 Our Mattia just wrapped up a few days of teaching echocardiography with a hint of interventional cardiology with Improve International Global in the dazzling city of Dubai!🩺 He is very grateful for the hot weather outside and the warm reception. Well done to the participants as they almost finished an intense GPCert Ultrasound.📚
The venue was excellent as the organization and equipment, thanks German Standard Group.

01/12/2023

🐾🎉 Celebrate National Cat Lovers' Month with VetSpoke! 🎉🐱

Hey cat enthusiasts! 🐾 December is not just about decking the halls, it's also National Cat Lovers' Month! 🎄❤️ To make this month extra special for you and your feline friends, VetSpoke is here with a purr-fect offer!

🐾 Got a complicated feline condition? Started therapy but not responding as you would like? VetSpoke connects you with top-notch veterinary specialists through our user-friendly webapp! 🖥️🐱

Why choose VetSpoke?
✅ Instant Access: Get expert advice at your fingertips.
✅ Tailored Solutions: Personalized guidance for your feline medicine conundrum.
✅ Learn as you go: connect with specialists and learn from ECVIM/ACVIM Diplomates as you work up the case together!

🎁 Special Offer for National Cat Lovers' Month:
Sign up now and receive a special discount on our already competitive price! 🎊 Use code: MEOWLOVE at checkout.

Ready to give cats the best possible care? Click the link below to get started! 🐾💙 www.vetspoke.com

Tag your fellow cat lovers and let them know about this fantastic opportunity to ensure our feline friends have the happiest and healthiest holiday season! 🎁🐈


Photo by Marcus Pinho

VetSpoke allows you to connect with veterinary specialists ensuring access to the highest quality of care for our pets!

23/11/2023

🤖✨ This is what happens when you ask AI to create an image to celebrate Dr. Rossanese's new paper on parotid duct ectasia and Thanksgiving Day. 🦃📚 I didn't realize Matteo Rossanese had such a nice beard 🧔‍♂️ Happy Thanksgiving Day! 🍂🍁 and enjoy the reading - reference below. 📖👨‍🔬

Martinez, I., Mielke, B., Rutherford, L., Cantatore, M., Cinti, F., Charlesworth, T., ... & Rossanese, M. (2023). Clinical findings, surgical treatment and outcome in dogs with parotid duct ectasia: 14 cases (2010‐2023). Journal of Small Animal Practice.

17/11/2023

Last week, our Mattia delivered an Echocardiography Course in collaboration with CPD Solutions in Studley, UK.

Echocardiography holds a pivotal role in veterinary medicine, and Mattia's commitment to advancing his skills underscores the dedication to providing comprehensive care within our community. This achievement aligns with VetSpoke's mission to facilitate knowledge-sharing among veterinary professionals.

We acknowledge the significance of specialized training and commend Mattia for his dedication to staying at the forefront of veterinary medicine. This accomplishment reflects positively on the commitment to excellence that defines our community.

For more information on VetSpoke, please visit www.vetspoke.com.

🌐👨‍⚕️

02/11/2023

🐾 November is Pet Diabetes Month! 🐾

At VetSpoke, we understand the importance of keeping our furry companions happy and healthy. 🐶🐱 This month, we join the global effort to raise awareness about pet diabetes and its management.

Did you know? Diabetes can affect our pets too, but with the right knowledge and care, we can make a significant difference in their lives. 🩺💙

VetSpoke is here to support first-opinion vets in managing complex cases, including diabetes. Our network of specialist veterinarians provides expert guidance and advice, ensuring the best care for your pets. 📚🤝

Let's work together to promote pet diabetes awareness and help pets live their best lives! 💪🦴

If you have questions or need guidance on managing pet diabetes, don't hesitate to reach out to our experts. Together, we can make a positive impact on your pet's health. 🌟


Photo by pelegnar

VetSpoke allows you to connect with veterinary specialists ensuring access to the highest quality of care for our pets!

27/10/2023

🖤🐱 Happy UK Black Cat Day! 🐱🖤

Today, we celebrate these sleek and mysterious feline companions who bring so much love and joy into our lives. 🌟

At VetSpoke, we believe in giving every pet the specialized care they deserve. Black cats are no exception! 🩺🤝

Did you know? Black cats often face challenges in finding forever homes, and we're here to support their health and well-being.

Our team of specialist veterinarians is dedicated to helping first-opinion vets with complex cases, ensuring every black cat receives the best care possible. 🐾💙

Join us in celebrating the beauty and uniqueness of black cats. Share a photo of your ebony friend and let's spread the love! 😻


Photo by Pixabay

09/10/2023

🐾👩‍⚕️ Unlock the Power of Collaboration 👨‍⚕️🐾

At VetSpoke, we believe that when veterinarians come together, magic happens! ✨

🌟 What Makes VetSpoke Special?
Our platform connects first-opinion vets with specialist veterinarians, fostering a community of collaboration and knowledge-sharing. 🤝💬

📚 Why Collaboration Matters:
- Access to expert advice on complicated cases.
- Continuous learning and professional growth.
- Better outcomes for our beloved four-legged friends. 🐾💙

Join VetSpoke today and unlock a world of collaboration, expertise, and boundless possibilities in veterinary care. Together, we make a difference, one paw at a time. 🌍🐶👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️

🐾👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️

VetSpoke allows you to connect with veterinary specialists ensuring access to the highest quality of care for our pets!

19/09/2023

🐾 Many of our VetSpoke team members will be at the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ECVIM) Congress in Barcelona this week!

Join us at this prestigious event as we showcase the future of veterinary care.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about our innovative telemedicine solutions and how they can benefit your practice. See you in Barcelona! 🐶🐱