Bloodwork

This annual blood screen is an excellent tool to evaluate the status of the internal organs. We have identified diseases in "apparently healthy" animals presented for routine annual vaccinations. By early identification the great majority of these pets were able to undergo treatment early in the disease process and ultimately, be saved from most serious consequences. Many pets are found to have subtle abnormalities, yet still be normal clinically, which became good baseline information for these pet owners should a real disease be contracted later.

 

Complete Blood Count (CBC) 

This is the most common blood test performed on pets and people. The CBC gives information on hydration status, anemia, infection, the blood's clotting ability, and the ability of the immune system to respond. This test is essential for pets with fevers, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, pale gums, or loss of appetite. If your pet needs surgery, a CBC can detect bleeding disorders or other unseen abnormalities.

 

Chemistry Panel

These common blood serum tests evaluate organ function, electrolyte status, hormone levels and more. They are important in evaluating older pets, pets with vomiting & diarrhea or toxin exposure, pets receiving long-term medications, and health before anesthesia.

 

Thyroid Profile

Certain breeds are more susceptible to hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels). Signs include a decrease in exercise tolerance, muscle weakness, increased susceptibility to disease, and unhealthy skin & coat. Hypothyroidism can also seriously affect multiple body systems. Many of these dogs will develop secondary liver, skin, heart disease, gain excessive weight, have increased thirst and urination patterns and some may develop seizures. A simple blood test will help identify hypothyroidism and once diagnosed, medication can be prescribed to effectively control the disease and reverse most symptoms.

 

Heartworm Test

Heartworm is a fatal disease spread only by the bite of mosquitoes, here at our clinic, we recommend testing annually for heartworm. The test is necessary whether or not your pet stays inside or goes outdoors, it's also necessary whether or not your pet is on heartworm preventative year round. Since it only takes one mosquito bite to cause this disease all pets are vulnerable. The test requires a very small blood sample and results are usually ready within 10 minutes.

 

Feline Leukemia & Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Test (FeLV/FIV)

These two diseases are associated with illness and death in more cats than any other infectious agent. The disease suppress the immune system and leaves cats susceptible to other diseases, there is no cure for these viruses. We recommend that all kittens be tested before being introduced into a household. Older cats should be tested every 2 to 5 years depending on their lifestyle.

 

Intestinal Parasite Fecal Analysis

Since some internal parasites can infect people, yearly stool tests protect both you and your pet; there are intestinal parasites that your pet may be exposed to on a regular basis. Infection can be transmitted from mother to kitten/puppy while nursing or when your pet consumes eggs, larvae, or a contaminated host (rodent or rabbit). Humans and pets can become infected while walking in grass, sand, or soil that has been tainted by fecal material. Therefore, it is important to check annually for parasites. The test is performed by examining a small quantity of stool through a microscopic flotation exam to identify characteristic parasite eggs.

 

Liver Profile 

A liver profile is a blood test that tells us how well your pet's liver is working. A typical liver profile includes liver enzymes, bilirubin, and bile acids.
Elevated liver enzymes may be caused by damaged liver tissue.
Bilirubin is a reddish-yellow material that comes from the normal or abnormal destruction of red blood cells.
In liver disease and liver failure the bilirubin is not excreted as it should. If elevated, it could indicate that the liver is not functioning well. Bile is the product that causes jaundice or yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes. Bile acids are pulled out of the blood stream by the liver. If the bile acids are high, this could indicate liver problems.