Dr. Maro shared her journey into integrative veterinary medicine. She discussed the challenges and benefits of implementing proactive measures in veterinary practices, particularly the importance of testing for inflammatory changes and cancer screening in dogs. Dr. Maro emphasized that “data is king,” and having effective ways to analyze a pet’s health proactively is crucial. Her collaboration with VDI Laboratories began in 2009 and has proven beneficial in obtaining crucial tests like C-reactive protein testing and early cancer diagnoses.

The meeting delved into the role of veterinarians and pet owners in adopting proactive veterinary practices. It was highlighted that VDI offers an accessible system for ordering tests, allowing pet parents to advocate for proactive health measures when visiting their veterinarians. A participant inquired about the ease of obtaining a test kit, learning that individuals should contact their veterinarians, who can set up an account with VDI to order tests without binding contracts or fees.

A important topic raised was the monitoring of vitamin D levels in pets. The meeting noted a shift from previously prevalent vitamin D deficiencies to cases of elevated levels, prompting discussions about potential sources of excess, such as therapeutic mushrooms and salmon-based products in pet diets.

The conversation also touched on the variety of tests available to pet owners, including serum tests requiring a veterinarian’s blood draw and at-home tests using fur or urine samples. The importance of baseline data for dogs when young was stressed, allowing for health tracking over the years. Cancer screenings were recommended not only for senior dogs but also for adult dogs, particularly breeds at high risk for certain cancers like golden retrievers. The rationale is to detect inflammation early, potentially preventing tumor development.

The meeting further explored gastrointestinal health, highlighting the gut’s critical role in overall health and its connection to conditions like cardiovascular disease and cognitive dysfunction. Microbiome testing was introduced as a viable option for assessing gut health, with discussions on mitigating factors like mycotoxin exposure and glyphosate that can contribute to gastrointestinal issues.

Inventory challenges faced by veterinarians were also discussed, noting the constraints in stocking all necessary medications and supplements. The logistics of ordering supplements directly from VDI if a pet is found deficient were emphasized.

A participant highlighted the need for veterinarians to adapt to the shift towards proactive health strategies, integrating comprehensive testing into standard care practices to enhance pet health outcomes. Participants shared insights and experiences about this evolving landscape.

The cost of testing, ranging from approximately $110 for specific tests to around $500 for comprehensive panels, was addressed. This pricing structure appeals to clients prioritizing extensive data for their pets’ health management. Pet parents can order tests directly through the company’s website, encouraged to involve their veterinarians to address complexities arising from individual test results.