Perry Hall Pet Hospital Features New Technology

A state-of-the-art sonogram machine and X-ray machine that sends images directly to your smart phone—these are just two devices featured in Perry Hall's newest hospital.

But don't make an appointment for yourself. Patients at Family Pet Hospital are four-legged and furry.

The veterinary hospital at 9810 Belair Road opened last week and already has more than 30 clients, according to owner Dr. Muhammad Iqbal, who has worked as a veterinarian between White Marsh and Towson for 26 years. 

Iqbal said he was excited about the independence of owning his own facility.

"Working for a corporation, I was limited in who I could hire and what technology I could bring in. Now we can use the best equipment and staff. We save time and pass the savings on to customers," he said.

The hospital can process virtually any medical test in-house, Iqbal said. Behind the lobby and "Client's Corner" photo board are a sonogram machine, X-ray machine, blood test machines, surgical equipment, kennel, exam rooms and pharmacy.

The X-ray machine can send photo results directly to a client's email, smart phone or tablet. Questions, concerns, prescription refills and appointments can also be processed entirely online.

"All of the equipment is just amazing. We don't have to ever send a pet to a specialist," said Jenifer Schnitzlein, a veterinary technologist at the hospital.

The entirely customized facility represented an investment of more than $1 million, Iqbal said.

But longtime client Lisa Hart said Iqbal's one-on-one attention is even more valuable than the equipment.

"He'll explain anything you want to know. He's there for you," Hart said.

Family Pet Hospital faces competition from at least three local animal hospitals—Abbey Animal Hospital, Perry Hall Animal Hospital and Schulmeyer Animal Hospital Inc.

Iqbal said his "passion for preventative care" sets Family Pet Hospital apart.

"I want your pet to never get sick. If there's a disease going around, we stay ahead of the game and test for it," he said.