The Importance of Routine Health Screenings
Regular veterinary health screenings are fundamental to maintaining your pet’s overall well-being. They enable early detection of diseases and allow for proactive management of both acute and chronic conditions. These screenings establish a medical baseline that helps us detect subtle changes should your pet become ill.
Core In-House Diagnostic Testing
Our on-site laboratory enables us to quickly obtain and interpret critical diagnostic results. This immediate access helps us make prompt and informed decisions about your pet’s health. Our most commonly performed tests include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates red and white blood cells, detects anemia and infection.
- Serum Chemistry Panels: Assesses liver and kidney function, electrolyte balance, and glucose levels.
- Heartworm Testing: Screens for early signs of heartworm disease in dogs and cats.
- Canine 4Dx Test: Detects tick-borne illnesses (ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease, anaplasmosis) and heartworm.
- FeLV/FIV Testing: Identifies feline leukemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus.
- Packed Cell Volume and Total Protein (PCV/TP): Screens for dehydration and anemia.
- Ear Cytology: Diagnoses ear infections and identifies underlying causes.
- Skin Scraping: Detects external parasites, such as mites.
- Fecal Analysis: Identifies intestinal parasites and bacterial imbalances (includes SNAP® Giardia, Gram stain).
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) Biopsy: Provides a preliminary evaluation of lumps and masses.
Specialized and External Laboratory Services
For more complex diagnostic needs, we utilize accredited external laboratories. Tests often recommended include:
- Cytology and Histopathology: Detailed analysis of cells and tissue samples for definitive diagnosis.
- Endocrine Testing: Includes thyroid function, ACTH stimulation (Cushing’s/Addison’s disease), bile acids for liver function, glucose curves, and fructosamine levels for diabetes management.
- Culture and Sensitivity: Determines the appropriate treatment for bacterial infections (abscesses, wounds, urine, ears).
- Urolith Analysis: Identifies bladder stones and informs preventive strategies.
- Therapeutic Drug Monitoring: Ensures effective and safe levels of medications like phenobarbital.
- Urine Protein:Creatinine Ratio: Assesses kidney function.
- Fluid Analysis: Evaluates samples from thoracic and abdominal fluid collections.
- Disease Titers: Confirms exposure and immunity status for certain diseases.
- Coagulation Panels: Screens for clotting disorders and assesses surgical risk.
- Allergy Testing: Identifies environmental or dietary allergens.
- Nutritional and Toxin Testing: Measures vitamins, minerals, hormones, and potential toxin exposure.
Partnering in Preventive Care
Our goal is to provide thorough and timely diagnostic services that support your pet’s health throughout all life stages. By combining regular health screenings with advanced diagnostic tools, we help ensure that your pet receives the best possible care.
If your pet is due for a health check-up or you have any health concerns, contact us today to schedule a comprehensive health screening.