Diagnostic testing can identify problems your pet may be experiencing so that proper treatment can begin before a condition worsens.
Unfortunately, pets can’t tell us where it hurts, and oftentimes, a healthy appearing animal may be masking symptoms of disease or illness. We recommend veterinary diagnostic testing to identify any problems and to begin treatment as early as possible. These tests are especially helpful when symptoms are unspecific or hard to define.
When would laboratory work be needed?
Most laboratory work is done through routine wellness exams as directed by our veterinarians. We recommend regular tests to determine your pet’s health. If any concerns or conditions are found, we will help you decide on proper treatment. If your pet is showing irregular behavior, please bring your pet in as soon as possible. If your pet is having a surgical procedure, the veterinarian may require lab work on your pet. For all pets over the age of 7, pre-anesthetic lab work is required. Our doctors will determine which laboratory services are appropriate during your exam.
How do veterinarians use laboratory work?
To ensure a proper diagnosis, we first examine your pet by looking at their eyes, ears, and skin; then we check their cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal, and skeletal systems for any abnormalities. Our extensive in-house laboratory allows us to have results of many different blood tests in a short period of time. We are equipped to run a Complete Blood Count, which gives us red and white blood cell counts to look for things such as underlying infection or anemia. Our Chemistry machine evaluates kidney and liver function as well as electrolytes. We can also run a Urinalysis and Sediment, test Pancreatic function, Coagulation Panel, and test for Heartworm Disease, Tick-borne diseases, and Intestinal Parasites. For more in-depth, extensive testing we use an outside laboratory and often have resulted in less than 24 hours.
If you have any questions regarding your pet’s health and laboratory testing, please ask one of our veterinarians or staff members, and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.