Dr. Dennis Woerde, Internal Medicine Specialist at MediPaws Veterinary Specialist Centre officially received Diplomate (specialist) status from the American College of Veterinary Nephrology and Urology (ACVNU) in January 2026.
Dennis is the first in Australia to be recognised with this formal qualification. Becoming a diplomate with the ACVNU builds on his foundations as an internal medicine specialist, receiving further training in kidney physiology, clinical diagnostics, minimally invasive procedures and extracorporeal therapies. The introduction of specialist-level nephrology and urology services represents an important advancement for the profession, providing referring veterinarians and their clients with access to highly specialised care for complex and chronic conditions.
Dr. Dennis Woerde, Kidney & Urinary and Internal Medicine Specialist at MediPaws Veterinary Specialist Centre.
The recognition of veterinary nephrology and urology aligns with the hospital’s broader commitment to specialist-led, collaborative care. The Kidney and Urinary Centre at MediPaws is supported by 24/7 emergency services and in-house teams across internal medicine, surgery, diagnostic imaging, and oncology – ensuring continuity of care for patients with complex needs.
Dr. Dennis Woerde performing laser lithotripsy on patient to break down and remove stones blocking urethra
We are excited to offer procedures to pets such as cystoscopic ureteral stent placement, management of bladder stones minimally invasively, investigation of recurrent/difficult urinary tract infections and management of urinary incontinence. MediPaws is one of the few hospitals in Australia to have a therapeutic Holmium:YAG (Ho:YAG) laser to allow for procedures such as ectopic ureter correction and bladder/urethral stone breakdown without the need for any surgery.
Minimally invasive approaches are associated with lower complication rates, reduced pain, shorter hospitalisation, and faster recovery times compared with traditional open surgery. For pets with chronic or complex urinary tract disease, these techniques can improve quality of life and support long-term disease management.
Article originally posted in April 2026 edition of ProVet Partners in Practice magazine.
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