State-of-the-art imaging tools help Hollister veterinarian
Curtis Moran make pinpoint diagnoses
Fifty years ago, the health of a pet was attributed to the
astuteness of its owner. The dog or cat was prone to all sorts of
diseases that would likely shorten its life significantly.
State-of-the-art imaging tools help Hollister veterinarian Curtis Moran make pinpoint diagnoses
Fifty years ago, the health of a pet was attributed to the astuteness of its owner. The dog or cat was prone to all sorts of diseases that would likely shorten its life significantly.
As technology improved so has the longevity of domesticated pets. One of the latest advancements in the field of veterinary science is digital X-rays.
Even something as simple as poor oral hygiene can eventually lead to other such things like cardiac disease and kidney failure.
Now, using digital radiology, veterinarians are better able to assess a variety of problems previously harder to determine. The unit snaps an anesthetized pet’s X-ray and the image is transferred to a computer – all without traditional X-ray film, a significant improvement for the environment.
No longer are retakes necessary, as the image can be enhanced on the computer screen for better viewing, so little Fifi doesn’t have to endure countless retakes so that the vet can properly diagnose an illness or injury. The technology also allows the vet to zoom in on certain areas that would previously have been impossible.
Digital X-rays are available on more than one station, allowing the vet to show the owner the image so they know exactly what is happening. The system can be used on larger animals or to inspect smaller, more specific areas. It can be used to diagnose everything from bone cancer and infection in a dog’s toe to tumors in parakeets.
While still a relatively new technology, local veterinarian Curtis Moran of the Family Pet Care Center in Hollister has adopted the system in his new practice.
Moran opened his practice in Hollister in February and cares for all varieties of domesticated pets.
“With animals, the basics are all the same. It involves making a problem list and treating with diagnostics. The plan is generally the same all across the board,” Moran said.
Family Pet Care is located in a former residence on East Street. Moran said that the homey feeling of the building is something that is important to his business philosophy.
“We wanted the kennel to feel homey and family-oriented because we treat the animals like we’d want them treated if they were our own,” Moran said.
Though his facility is new, Moran has been in San Benito County since 2001, and had previously practiced in Morgan Hill and San Jose.
“We liked this area. There was a need for another veterinarian here since there were only two other vets in the area and this was a good fit. We liked the rural, farming area,” Moran said.
He said that it’s important to maintain animal health since pets are like members of the family and everyone wants to see their family members stay healthy.
“It’s also very important to get pets checked annually, since one human year is equal to about seven for dogs and cats.”
The challenge of being a veterinarian in Hollister is the same in every area, according to Moran.
“It’s sad and frustrating that you can’t cure every animal,” Moran said. “There are also occasions where you might be able to help, but the owner can’t afford the treatment.”
In addition to Moran’s veterinarian practice Family Pet Care Center Inc., he also operates a boarding facility for dogs and cats. Moran said that they have six dog runs and an additional 11 dog cages outside and 18 cat condos inside.
Family Pet Care is located at 38 East Street in Hollister. It can be reached at 831-637-7387.
