THE IMPORTANCE OF ANIMAL TESTING

Along with a detailed medical history and a through physical examination, we can order diagnostic testing to establish baseline laboratory test that can detect the onset of diseases and conditions early, when treatment and prevention are most effective.

YOUR DOG’S HEALTH ASSESSMENT

 Using the information gained from this evaluation, we will provide you with an assessment of your dog’s overall health and make any necessary recommendations. We will also look for arthritis, which us common in older dogs, as well as dental disease, which can lead to serious medical conditions. For the best care, you senior dog should be examined by your veterinarian every 6 months, which is similar to a time of 2 to 3 years in people.

Most dogs are considered to be “senior” at 7 years of age. However larger dogs tend to have a shorter life expectancy than their smaller counterparts, so health issues may occur sooner for them. If your dog is a larger breed, you need to pay particular attention to your pet’s life stage and changing needs at an earlier age than you might expect.

Approximately 22% of dogs older than 7 years of age harbor disease that is only detectable with an advanced diagnostic workup. Fortunately, many diseases can be treated and have favorable outcomes if diagnosed in the early stages. However, dogs age more rapidly than people, so dramatic changes in health can occur in as little time as 3 to 6 months. That is why visits to your veterinarian and regular testing are essential to your pet’s quality of life.

ROUTINE TESTING

Several noninvasive tests and procedures performed regularly can provide us with a baseline for measuring changes and can help detect early-stage disease. These tests check for:

·        Anemia                        ●   Inflammation

·        Cancer                        ●   Disease pf the heart,

·        Diabetes                           intestines, kidneys, liver,

·        Infection                           pancreas, and thyroid

EARLY TREATMENT

Routine testing combined with twice-a-year exams can reassure you of your older dog’s continued good health or health your veterinarian begin treatment early, giving you and your dog a formidable advantage over diseases.

Serum Chemistry

Ø      Liver

This group of rest evaluates various functions  and the structural integrity of the liver

Ø      Kidney

These tests monitor the function and health of the kidneys. They are most sensitive for detection kidney disease when combined with urinalysis

Ø      Pancreas

These tests assess the function and health of the pancreas and carbohydrate metabolism

Ø      Electrolytes

Important in monitoring the electric, water balance and general cellular health of the body  

Ø      Muscle/Bone

Checks for the presence of damage, trauma and inflammation

Thyroid Function Tests

Ø      These evaluate the function of the thyroid gland

Complete Blood Count

Ø      CBC

Test for anemia, infection, inflammation, leukemia and functions of the bone marrow

Urinalysis

Ø      Assesses the health and function of the kidneys and bladder, especially important in older animals for early detection of kidney decease

Parasite Exams

Ø      Checks for parasites in the intestinal tract such as roundworms, whipworms, hookworms, coccidian, heartworm and Giardia. Blood us tested for heartworm disease.