Bloodwork is a simple way for your vet to get an idea of how your pet's body and overall health are functioning. Here, our vets in Williamsburg discuss the purpose of blood tests for dogs, what we learn from these tests and how they help.
Blood Tests for Dogs
Blood tests are an easy way for your vet to track your dog's health and address potential issues before they become a bigger concern.
The sooner issues are diagnosed, the quicker treatment can begin, allowing for the best possible outcome. It is important to conduct blood tests for healthy pets during routine exams. These tests help establish normal baseline values for comparison in the future, especially as your pet gets older. Below, we detail what we can learn about your pet when performing blood tests and how you can understand the results.
What types of blood tests will the vet perform?
Two standard blood tests are a complete blood count (CBC) and a complete blood chemistry panel (blood serum test). The blood serum test includes measuring electrolytes and an additional urinalysis test. The CBC tests for anemia, inflammation, and infection. Additionally, it can predict the immune system's response and the ability to form blood clots. By analyzing the chemistry panel and electrolytes, your veterinarian can determine the health and function of your pet's liver, kidneys, and pancreas.
This crucial laboratory work can detect and identify complex issues within a dog's internal systems. Dogs' blood tests can identify the source of hormonal-chemical responses and whether internal or external stimuli trigger them. Properly functioning hormones are vital to the internal processes of your dog's body, including organ function. A veterinarian may interpret this as a potential issue with the dog's endocrine system, which is the system of glands that produce the hormones.
When do vets request blood tests for dogs?
We might use blood tests in situations such as:
- Your pet's first vet visit (to establish baseline data).
- Pre-anesthetic testing before surgical procedures.
- Semi-annual routine exams as preventive care.
- During senior exams, while looking for age-related conditions in the earliest stages.
- Pre-surgical testing to identify your dog's risk of complications during surgery.
- Before starting a new medication.
- If your dog is showing symptoms or acting abnormally or 'off,.'
- To help assess your pet's condition during an emergency visit.
How long does blood work for dogs take at a veterinary clinic?
At our veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Williamsburg, we can perform various tests and get results quickly. These tests usually only take a few minutes and may save your dog's life – not to mention future treatment or symptom-management expenses. If your dog needs additional testing, it may take a little longer. Our vets perform blood tests in-house using cutting-edge technology and equipment. They will explain the reasons behind specific tests, discuss the results, and address any questions.
How Blood Tests Help Keep Pets Healthy
At Godspeed Animal Care, we are committed to ensuring that you fully understand your dog's blood tests and results. Treating and managing health issues requires collaboration between our veterinary team and caring pet owners. We will always take time at the end of the visit to explain our findings and what the next steps might be.
Your dog's bloodwork typically includes a complete blood count (CBC) or blood chemistry (serum test). Blood tests for dogs can help diagnose conditions causing symptoms like diarrhea, fever, weakness, or loss of appetite. The results of a CBC may also help us spot the signs of bleeding disorders or other abnormalities.
What do we learn from a CBC (complete blood count)?
- Hematocrit (HCT): This test measures the percentage of red blood cells to detect hydration or anemia.
- Hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (Hb and MCHC): These are the pigments in red blood cells that carry oxygen.
- White blood cell count (WBC): This test measures the body’s immune cells. The two main types of blood cells that we look for are phagocytes and lymphocytes. Phagocytes target foreign particles, bacteria, fungi and parasites, while lymphocytes are responsible for antibody production and immune-mediated responses. Lymphocytes are the white blood cells that target cancer.
- Platelet count (PLT): This test measures cells that form blood clots.
- Reticulocytes (Retic Count): High levels of immature red blood cells can point to regenerative anemia.
- Fibrinogen: This protein helps stop bleeding by helping blood clots to form. High levels are generally associated with cardiovascular diseases.
What are blood serum tests used for?
Blood chemistries (serum tests) reveal information about a dog's organ function (liver, kidneys, and pancreas), hormone levels, electrolyte status, and other factors. They can also be used to determine the health of older dogs, perform general health checks before anesthesia, and monitor dogs on long-term medications.
How much are blood tests for dogs?
As with many other veterinary care services, the costs vary from clinic to clinic and pet to pet. Several factors contribute to the final cost.
This can be the clinic's location, the practitioner's expertise, or the equipment used. The age of your pet also affects the final amount you will pay. Please speak with your vet to discuss the estimated cost for your pet and a breakdown of the bill.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.