Lab Work & Testing
Laboratory services
In our office, we are able to perform two different blood tests: the 4DX for dogs and the Feline Combo for cats. Each of these tests requires a small amount of blood and provides us with results in about ten minutes. Just like with people, some pets may experience slight discomfort while blood is being drawn, but the procedure is harmless. The 4DX tests for Heartworm as well as three tick-borne diseases: Lyme, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis in dogs. The Feline Combo tests for two retro-viruses: Feline leukemia (Felv) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in cats. For more comprehensive or specialized blood tests, we utilize two reference laboratories and the doctor will call you to review your results once we receive them. We are also able to send tissue samples to these reference labs for biopsy when needed.
Spectrum Allergy Testing
Allergies are a common issue for dogs and cats. Sometimes they can be treated and controlled with antihistamines, food changes or avoidance, but unfortunately, that is not always the case. By collecting a blood sample and sending it to Spectrum Labs, we are able to ascertain what triggers your pet’s allergies. Spectrum will prepare a comprehensive report, which includes a result sheet, treatment options and a booklet with food options appropriate for your pet’s specific allergy results. In addition, the lab can prepare a hypo-sensitization serum to help your pet build immunity to their allergens. These serums are prepared specially based on individual pet results.
X-Ray
Our office is equipped with digital X-Ray, which can be helpful in diagnosing illness such as pneumonia, collapsed lung, abnormal fluid accumulation in the chest or abdomen, or pyometra (uterine infection). X-Ray can also be instrumental in diagnosing spinal conditions, joint abnormalities like hip dysplasia, bone fracture, possible foreign body obstructions, and abnormal masses or tumors. In addition, some breeders utilize radiographs to determine how many puppies are present during pregnancy. While the majority of the time we are able to take X-Rays while a pet is awake, there are certain circumstances that require that we sedate your pet. For example, if your pet is extremely stressed or painful, it may be difficult to properly position him for the X-Ray. If sedation is required, the doctor will discuss the procedure with you beforehand.