When they are ill, our pets are unable to communicate with us. Regular veterinary checkups, deworming, and a well-balanced diet are essential for our pets, but they do not always reveal the health of their internal organs. The most diagnostic of all medical tests are blood tests. They provide precise and timely information regarding the health of your pets.

What is the purpose of a blood test for a pet?

Your veterinarian or veterinary nurse may recommend blood tests for your pet regularly. For example, a disease diagnosis procedure is necessary, and multiple factors necessitate a blood test. In other instances, a “warrant of fitness” may be required for a routine health examination.

The results of blood tests can significantly improve your veterinarian’s ability to assist your furry family member. This is particularly vital before your pet’s clinic procedure. The veterinary team must thoroughly understand your pet’s current health condition to anticipate potential complications during anesthesia.

When a blood test is advised

Newtown Veterinary Specialists may recommend a blood test during your pet’s annual exam. The following situations may require your veterinarian to recommend a blood test:

• Your first visit to the veterinary clinic
• Throughout a health examination
• If your animal is sick,
• Before the operation, a pre-anesthetic blood test is conducted.
• Before beginning a new medication, you should conduct a senior health assessment.

What happens following the collection of a blood sample?

The jugular vein in the neck provides a good sample and is also large enough to allow for rapid blood collection. Blood starts to clot when exposed to air, which could affect the outcome. Most animals are calmer when blood is drawn from the jugular vein; however, if necessary, a smaller sample can be drawn from a vein in the leg. 

To prevent bruising, we apply pressure to the vein for approximately one minute after blood collection. This can be challenging if the patient is wriggly. Blood is drawn and placed in tubes that will be used for the necessary tests, most of which can be performed in our on-site laboratory. These samples are sent to a different laboratory because specific tests require more specialized equipment. Check this link to learn more about the in-house diagnostics lab.

Why must a blood test be performed?

A blood test for your pet may be necessary for various reasons. A veterinary surgeon in Newtown will be able to screen your pet’s condition before the surgery. The blood tests screen for disease or breed-specific conditions, identify potential problems before anesthesia, and monitor the effects of particular drug therapies. Wellness blood testing for early detection is critical to detecting and treating health conditions. Blood tests are necessary because: 

• As your pet ages, a more significant number of health problems emerge (similar to humans)
• Humans age more slowly than animals. Yearly blood tests are as necessary as ever to detect any underlying medical conditions, 
• Similar to blood tests for humans, the knowledge gained about your pet’s health is invaluable.

Conclusion

A blood test performed by your veterinarian can detect kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid disease, and diabetes, among other conditions. If detected early, the conditions can be monitored and treated regardless of severity. In most instances, the blood test results will not reveal any health issues. Blood tests are an indispensable diagnostic and monitoring tool for our veterinary teams.