Our Services
Our knowledgeable staff and our facilities allow us to deal with a variety of medical conditions your pet may experience. We hope we do not have to see you or your pet for an emergency but if we do, we are equipped to handle the situation. In some cases, your pet may require hospitalization and further diagnostic tests. Our website describes the medical services we offer in more detail.
Blood Work
Blood work is one of our most vital diagnostic tests we have available to us. With just a small amount of blood we can assess your pet’s major organs, some hormones, electrolyte balance and blood cell lines. With a few basic tests, the veterinarian can help you learn important information about your pet’s health.
Understanding Blood Tests
Complete Blood Count
A complete blood count (CBC) detects anaemia, infection and blood clotting problems. This includes assessment of the red blood cells (RBC), which carry oxygen to the body; white blood cells (WBC) which fight infection; and platelets which are necessary for blood clotting. Microscopic examination of the blood also shows if there are abnormal cells in circulation.
Biochemical Profile
Biochemistry tests evaluate a variety of internal organs and determine if they are working normally.
Liver (AST, ALT, Alk. Phos., Bilirubin, GGT, Cholesterol, Proteins, Bile Acids)
The health of the liver and gall bladder is assessed with these tests. Decreased liver function, inflammation, tissue damage and bile blockage can all be detected.
Kidney (BUN, Creatinine, Phosphorous, Potassium, Albumin)
These tests provide information about kidney function. Increases in BUN and Creatininemay indicate kidney diseases. Changes in the other tests help to identify the type of problem. Kidney function tests are even more helpful when combined with a urinalysis.
Pancreas (Amylase, Lipase, Glucose, TLI, spec CPLI)
Abnormal pancreatic function can be detected using these tests, including pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus, and pancreatic insufficiency.
Muscle & Bones (AST, CPK, Calcium, Phosphorous)
AST and CPK are frequently elevated when there is inflammation, trauma or damage to skeletal muscle. Calcium and Phosphorous levels are indicators of bone health.
Electrolytes (Calcium, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride)
These elements form the “electrical” system of the body and help cells communicate with each other. For example, proper electrolyte levels are necessary for muscle contraction (including the heart) and nerve impulses.
Thyroid Function Tests
T4, FT4, TSH, Autoantibodies
The thyroid gland is like a thermostat that “sets” the metabolic rate of the entire body. Too little thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) is common in dogs and leads to sluggishness and weight gain. Too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) is frequently seen in older cats and causes hyperactivity and weight loss resulting in stress on the heart and other organs. Because no single test detects all types of thyroid disease, several tests may be needed to ensure a proper diagnosis.
