While physical exams provide invaluable insights into your pet's health, we can't see what's happening below the surface. Blood work helps us diagnose and treat potentially serious health concerns that would otherwise go undetected until their later stages.
Blood work typically consists of a complete blood count (CBC) to measure several blood components. These include the red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout your pet's body, the white blood cells that ward off infections, and the platelets that help with blood clotting. Abnormal blood cell counts may indicate the need for further evaluation.
Your pet's blood work will include a blood chemistry analysis to evaluate the liver and kidneys, along with blood sugar, proteins, and electrolyte levels. This information can point to problems with specific organs. It also gives us a baseline for the future to know what is normal for your pet.
Your pet's blood tests will also detect parasites such as heartworms and uncover various health concerns, including anemia, diabetes, endocrine diseases, and so much more. Whether your pet is healthy or a little off, the blood work results help us create effective treatment plans for long-term health and wellness.
