Stay Ahead of Your Pet’s Health with Veterinary Diagnostic Services

Unlike humans, our pets can’t communicate where they’re feeling discomfort or pain. Unfortunately, a pet that appears healthy may be hiding underlying illnesses or injuries. Diagnostic testing is crucial in uncovering these hidden issues, allowing for timely treatment. This type of testing is especially valuable when symptoms are vague or difficult to pinpoint, providing clarity and ensuring your pet gets the care they need.

Most lab work is done during routine veterinary visits. These diagnostics help detect problems even before symptoms manifest. Lab tests are also crucial during emergencies or unscheduled visits to determine the best treatment for your pet.

Diagnostic services available at Cornelius Pet Hospital

Our veterinary team is proud to offer several diagnostic services to ensure rapid diagnosis for your pet, allowing them to feel healthier again.

Our pet diagnostic services include:

• Bloodwork: Our hospital can run several blood tests to determine what’s ailing your pet. A complete blood count (CBC) will look at red and white blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin levels. This test also helps diagnose infections, anemia, and immune system disorders. A serum biochemistry panel helps evaluate internal organ function, electrolytes, and can screen for some endocrine disease. In addition to in-house tests, we work with an outside laboratory to offer several specialty tests for specific diseases. 
• Imaging: Our X-rays are used for  assessing bones, joints, and other organs. X-rays can identify fractures, arthritis, tumors, or foreign objects your pet may have ingested. Ultrasounds use sound waves to create detailed images of soft tissues like the heart, liver, and intestines. They help diagnose conditions such as organ enlargement, cysts, or blockages. We routinely work with an internal medicine specialist to schedule abdominal ultrasounds at our hospital.
• Blood pressure monitoring: Like humans, pets can have high or low blood pressure, indicating an underlying disease. Untreated hypertension can lead to additional conditions like kidney damage, heart disease, and vision loss.
• Thyroid testing: These tests help identify issues like hypo or hyperthyroidism. Hormonal imbalances affect your pet’s energy levels, weight, and overall health.
• Urinalysis: This tests the concentration, pH, and presence of substances like protein, glucose, or blood in the urine. A simple urine exam could indicate kidney disease, infections, or diabetes.
• Fecal exam: Examining your pet’s fecal material can identify intestinal parasites like roundworms or hookworms, which can cause gastrointestinal issues.