Pet diagnostics and blood work may be performed during an annual check-up, or if you bring your pet in because something is wrong. Most diagnostic testing is non-invasive, and it can give the vet a clear picture of what is going on with your furry friend. If your pet needs a check-up or a sick visit in Lafayette or West Lafayette, contact Creekside Animal Hospital & Wellness Center.
Pet Bloodwork
Pet bloodwork is often used to check the overall health of your pet. A CBC (Complete Blood Count) can tell your vet about your pet's immune system, signs of infection, and how much oxygen their body is getting. Organ function, including the pancreas, kidneys, and liver can also be checked with a simple blood test. Blood work can also be used when your pet is sick. It can help narrow down the cause of infection, arthritis, or reduced organ function.
Other Pet Diagnostics
In addition to blood work, your vet may need to perform some other non-invasive diagnostic testing. These tests are also fairly typical and you have likely heard of them before.
X Rays
X-rays are another common diagnostic tool. X-rays can check for broken bones, trauma, and foreign objects. It can show the number of puppies a dog is carrying after 45 days of pregnancy and is less expensive than an ultrasound. Since your pet can't verbally tell you about the pain they are experiencing, x rays can be an excellent way to detect problems.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is often used to see things that don't show up on x-rays. X-rays are often used to check bones and to look for foreign objects. However, they can give a picture of the pet's organs as well. When your vet needs a better view of your pet's organs and how they are functioning, ultrasound is often used. Ultrasound can also be used to detect foreign objects (not all objects will show up on an x-ray) and check for tumors. Ultrasound gives your vet a 3-D image of the inside of your pet's body in real-time.
Urinalysis
Urinalysis is an important diagnostic tool for pets just as it is for humans. It's often used to check the health of the urinary system and kidneys but it can also indicate problems with other organs such as the pancreas.
Diagnostic Care From Creekside
Creekside Animal Hospital & Wellness Center in Lafayette and West Lafayette is committed to not only treating your pet's health problems but also monitoring them and catching potential problems early through diagnostic tools. Contact us today and let us help keep your pet happy and healthy.