Bloodwork

To ensure your pet's well-being, our team may recommend having bloodwork done. Blood testing is a great diagnostic tool for figuring out what’s happening inside your pet’s body. Bloodwork can be used to diagnose liver disease, infections, anemia, diabetes, and other conditions. Our hospital has an on-site diagnostic lab for blood tests and urine analysis.

Why does my pet need bloodwork?

Our team may recommend blood testing for a few reasons. Bloodwork determines the white and red blood cell count in your pet, these are used to determine overall health and identify illnesses. Some of reasons your pet may need bloodwork done are:

1. To tell our team what your pet’s normal health is. Blood testing is recommended for healthy pets to determine their baseline health levels. When your pet is visiting for the first time or having a wellness exam we will usually conduct blood testing. The results from their normal health can be used for comparison for future health issues.
2. As mentioned earlier, bloodwork is used to identify illnesses in your loyal companion. Some diseases or conditions cannot be diagnosed through regular physical examinations as there may not be any symptoms in the early stages.
3. It is part of their routine checkup. Senior pets in particular benefit from having annual bloodwork to catch illnesses in the early stages. Pets age much faster than adults and a lot happens within a year of their checkup.
4. To determine if your loyal companion is healthy enough to withstand surgery. Before each surgical procedure, our team performs routine tests to determine how well your pet will respond to anesthesia.

Where are blood samples taken from my pet?

Our team regularly draws blood from veins in the neck or leg of your pet.

What are signs that my pet may benefit from lab work?

When there is an abnormality in your pet’s health they may show some signs and symptoms. In order to determine the cause we need to perform blood tests. Some symptoms that may need veterinary attention include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Increase in urination or thirst

If your pet is experiencing any of these signs we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Call us at 613-433-3100 right away.