Dog Lab Tests

Understanding Dog Lab Tests: A Comprehensive Guide

Dog lab tests are essential tools used by veterinarians to diagnose and monitor various health conditions in dogs. These tests involve analyzing blood, urine, or other bodily fluids to assess a dog's overall health, identify underlying diseases, and monitor treatment progress.

Common Dog Lab Tests

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Evaluates the number and types of blood cells.

Helps diagnose infections, anemia, and other blood disorders.

Chemistry Panel

Measures levels of various substances in the blood, such as glucose, electrolytes, and liver and kidney function tests.

Helps identify diseases affecting organs like the liver, kidneys, and pancreas.

Urinalysis

Analyzes the physical, chemical, and microscopic properties of urine.

Helps detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and other urinary disorders.

Fecal Exam

Examines a stool sample for parasites, bacteria, or other abnormalities.

Helps diagnose intestinal parasites, digestive disorders, and other intestinal problems.

Thyroid Tests

Measures thyroid hormone levels.

Helps diagnose hypothyroidism, a common endocrine disorder in dogs.

Heartworm Test

Detects heartworm infection, a serious parasitic disease.

Other Specialized Tests

Depending on the specific health concern, veterinarians may recommend additional tests, such as:

Electrolyte Panel: Measures levels of electrolytes in the blood.

Liver Function Tests: Evaluates liver health.

Kidney Function Tests: Assesses kidney function.

Pancreatic Function Tests: Evaluates pancreatic function.

Hormone Tests: Measures hormone levels to diagnose endocrine disorders.

When to Consider Lab Tests

Your veterinarian may recommend lab tests in various situations, including:

Routine Wellness Checkups: To assess overall health and identify potential problems early on.

Investigating Specific Symptoms: To diagnose conditions such as lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Monitoring Chronic Diseases: To track disease progression and adjust treatment plans.

Pre-Anesthesia Screening: To assess a dog's health before surgery.

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After 2 trips to vet this week alone, both unexpected and urgent, I am 100% convinced there is no better vet around than Dr. Boden here at Walker Veterinary Hospital. He is the most caring and sweetest doctor I’ve ever taken my dogs to and I’ve tried at least 5 others in the area. This is our primary vet from now on!