Dover Area Animal Hospital
Laboratory Services
Diagnostic testing can identify problems your pet may be experiencing so that proper treatment can begin before a condition worsens.
Overview
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 doctors. For emergencies or unscheduled visits, our diagnostic lab will run various tests to determine the best treatment for your pet.
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 schedule an appointment as soon as possible. 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. We will then perform blood and/or urine tests if necessary to check their kidneys, liver, pancreas, and endocrine system. Based on your pet’s condition, we may recommend further diagnostic testing.
If you’re concerned that something may be wrong with your pet, please call us to schedule a medical assessment.
Laboratory Services at Dover Area Animal Hospital
CBC (Complete Blood Count) This is a common test performed on pets to provide information about the health status of a patient. The CBC machine (Idexx ProCyte) reads the RBC (red blood cell count). An increase in the RBC may support dehydration and a decrease may indicate anemia. The WBC (white blood cell count) is also read, and an increase may be due to inflammation, stress, excitement and leukemia.
Chemistry Profile This blood test allows our veterinarians to assess your pet’s overall health. This screen measures liver function, kidney function, pancreas function, blood glucose, total protein, and electrolytes.
Other in-house diagnostic bloodwork:
Total T4 (Thyroxine)
ProBNP (cardiac enzyme; Cats only)
Cortisol
Parvo Virus
CPL (Pancreatitis)
Snap 4Dx Test This test can detect four infections in one simple blood test in less than 10 minutes. It detects Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichiosis, and Heartworm disease. Lyme disease is diagnosied in our office everyday. For more information, please call our office. Click here for a informational sheet.
Snap Feline Combo Test This test can detect 2 infections in one blood test. It detects Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).
Outside Lab: We use IDEXX reference laboratory for all of our pathology, radiology, cardiology, and complex bloodwork.
