Lab work is an essential tool for veterinarians. When your pet is unwell, we cannot determine what’s going on by only examining their body. Bloodwork helps us better understand your pet’s organs and internal systems, making it easier to diagnose them. Blood tests will show the chemical components related to specific organs, which can help us diagnose liver, kidney, and heart problems. Our hospital has an onsite laboratory that can accurately process your pet’s samples and give prompt results.
When is bloodwork necessary?
Blood tests are a must for all pets; they can reveal various medical problems that can affect their life. Our veterinarians will recommend blood tests in the following situations:
- Your pet is showing signs of illness. Fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, and diarrhea are symptoms that may indicate something is wrong with your pet.
- It’s your pet’s first visit to the vet. This is important as it reveals the baseline health of your puppy/kitten.
- Your pet is going to have surgery or start a new medication. Bloodwork will show how your pet will react to anesthesia and help us determine a safe dose. Blood tests tell us how well the liver and the kidney function, which metabolize medicine.
To schedule bloodwork for your pet, please call us at 519-948-7727.
What samples are processed at your laboratory?
Lauzon Veterinary Hospital is capable of processing various samples from your pet and providing fast results at our in-house lab. We can process the following:
- Blood – From your pet’s blood, we can understand their complete blood count (CBC) and blood clotting ability
- Stool – Fecal exams can diagnose parasites and other health issues
- Urine – Evaluating your loyal companion’s urine shows their hydration level and the state of their kidneys or bladder
How can I prepare my pet for a blood test?
Getting a blood sample from your pet will be a quick and easy procedure. Our team is specially trained to take a sample while ensuring your pet is comfortable. For scheduled bloodwork, we recommend that pets fast for about 6 hours. If your pet eats before their test, fat droplets may interfere with the result. You should also ensure your pet is properly hydrated, not stressed and is well-rested.
