We understand that when your veterinarian recommends a blood test it can cause concern. Today, our North Providence vets explain some of the reasons we would request a blood test and some of the information that it reveals about your dog's health.
Why Veterinarians do Blood Tests for Dogs
When done as part of preventive care, blood tests indicate the earliest signs of illness before any outward symptoms appear. They can help to detect, identify, diagnose or even treat disease or illness.
When diseases are detected early, prevention and treatment can be administered earlier. Healthy pets also need blood tests during routine exams to obtain average baseline values to compare to later.
If your dog is displaying symptoms, diagnostic blood tests play an essential role in helping your vet determine the cause of your dog's symptoms.
Information That is Revealed From a Blood Test
A complete blood count (CBC) and complete blood chemistry panel, including electrolytes and urinalysis, are common tests. The CBC identifies whether there is anemia, inflammation, or infection present. It can also indicate immune system response and blood clotting ability.
The chemistry panel and electrolytes tell your vet whether your pet’s liver, kidneys, and pancreas are healthy and working as they should.
This important lab work can also detect and help to identify complex issues within a dog’s internal systems. For example, blood tests for dogs can detect whether internal or environmental stimuli are causing hormonal-chemical responses. This tells a veterinarian there may be a potential problem with the dog’s endocrine system.
When Will My Dog Need a Blood Test?
Countless circumstances can lead to your vet recommending that your dog have blood work done, such as:
- Your pet's first vet visit (to establish baseline data and for pre-anesthetic testing before a spaying or neutering procedure)
- Semi-annual routine exams as preventive care
- During a senior pet's exam look for age-related conditions in the earliest stages
- As pre-surgical testing to identify your dog's risk of complications during surgery
- Before starting a new medication
- If your dog is showing symptoms or acting abnormally
- To help assess your pet's condition during an emergency visit
How Long Does Blood Work Take at a Vet?
Thanks to our in-house lab, our vets can perform a variety of tests and get results quickly. The tests themselves only take a few minutes and may save the life of your dog. Some tests may take somewhat longer. Your vet can provide an accurate timeframe.
The blood tests at Ferguson Animal Hospital are done in-house, your vet will be able to explain why specific tests are needed and their results and address any questions you may have.
How Much are Blood Tests for Dogs?
The cost of blood tests for your canine companion will vary depending on several factors, such as the number of tests needed and their complexity. The team at our North Providence animal hospital will be able to provide you with a cost estimate.
What Do My Dog's Blood Test Results Mean?
At Ferguson Animal Hospital, we will always take the time to explain your dog’s blood tests and their results.
Typically, your dog's bloodwork will include a complete blood count (CBC) or blood chemistry (serum test). The CBC will be important for dogs that have pale gums or are experiencing vomiting, fever, weakness, or loss of appetite. Blood tests for dogs with diarrhea also fall into this category.
A CBC can also detect bleeding disorders or other abnormalities that may not be identified otherwise.
A CBC Reveals Detailed Information, Including:
- Hematocrit (HCT): With this test, we can identify the percentage of red blood cells to detect hydration or anemia.
- Hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (Hb and MCHC): These are pigments of red blood cells that carry oxygen.
- White blood cell count (WBC): With this test, we measure the body’s immune cells. Certain diseases or infections can cause WBC to increase or decrease.
- Granulocytes and lymphocytes/monocytes (GRANS and L/M): These are specific types of white blood cells.
- Eosinophils (EOS): These are a specific type of white blood cells that can indicate health conditions due to allergies or parasites.
- Platelet count: (PLT): This test measures cells that form blood clots.
- Reticulocytes (RETICS): High levels of immature red blood cells can point to regenerative anemia.
- Fibrinogen (FIBR): We can glean important information about blood clotting from this test. High levels can indicate a dog is 30 to 40 days pregnant.
What Blood Chemistries Reveal (Blood Serum Test)
Blood chemistries (blood serum tests) give us insight into a dog’s organ function (liver, kidneys, and pancreas), hormone levels, electrolyte status, and more.
We can assess the health of older dogs, do general health assessments before anesthesia, or monitor dogs receiving long-term medications.
These tests also help evaluate senior dogs’ health and those with symptoms of diseases such as Addison’s, diabetes, or kidney diseases.
Toxin exposure is also one of the conditions that are often diagnosed with blood tests.
Does My Dog Need Blood Tests & Lab Work?
At Ferguson Animal Hospital our vets recommend blood tests are conducted and lab work done as a proactive measure during an annual routine exam, even if your dog seems perfectly healthy. Our veterinary team will always advocate for your pet’s health, explain any tests that are needed and why, and take a preventive approach to your dog’s veterinary care.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.