Why is lab work important for my dog?
Lab tests help us catch problems early—sometimes before your dog even shows symptoms. They also give us a baseline of what's normal for your pet, so if something changes later, we can spot it more easily. Lab work lets us take a deeper look at your pet’s health, from the inside out.
When might you recommend lab work for my dog?
We may recommend lab work at your dog's first visit, during wellness exams, before surgery or starting a new medication, or if your dog just isn't acting like themselves. Results can help diagnose chronic conditions, infections, or metabolic issues.
What are some common tests included in lab work?
There are quite a few different types, depending on what we’re looking for. For example:
- Urinalysis, which tells us how well the kidneys and urinary system are working
- Fecal exams, which check for parasites or digestive issues
- A Complete Blood Count, or CBC, which looks at red and white blood cells
- Blood clotting times, especially important before surgery
- Blood chemistries, which show how organs like the liver and kidneys are functioning
- Cytology, where we look at cells under the microscope—often from skin lumps or ear swabs
And gastrointestinal blood panels, which help us diagnose digestive problems
What can I expect for my pet?
We usually draw the sample from the neck (the jugular vein) or sometimes from a leg. Your dog might go home with a small bandage—that can come off after an hour or so. Some dogs might have a tiny bruise or feel a little tired, but generally, they bounce right back with minimal discomfort.
And no—it’s not painful. We’re trained to make the process as gentle and stress-free as possible. Most dogs handle it really well.
What should I do if I'm unsure about the results?
If you have questions about your dog’s lab work or you’re not sure what tests they might need, please don’t hesitate to ask. Please call us directly—Google isn’t always your best friend here. Lab work is one of the best tools we have to keep your dog healthy, happy, and thriving for years to come.
If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at (480) 613-9277, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!
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