Blood Tests (External Labs) 

What is a blood test? 

A blood test, also known as a blood panel or blood work, is a medical procedure that involves taking a sample of blood from your pet for analysis. 

At Dr Paws Vet Care, we go the extra mile for your pet's well-being. In addition to our comprehensive in-house blood tests, we offer the convenience of sending out tests to external labs. This ensures that your pet has access to an extensive range of specialised diagnostics, which allow us to provide the most accurate and thorough health assessment. 

Whether for rare conditions, specialised panels, or advanced genetic testing, our commitment to delivering top-notch veterinary care means we have access to a network of reputable external labs. Rest assured, your pet's health is our priority, and our collaborative approach ensures that they receive the best possible care tailored to their unique needs.

How do blood tests work? 

Blood tests, also known as blood panels, are diagnostic procedures that provide crucial insights into your pet’s health. The process typically begins with your veterinarian collecting a small blood sample from your pet’s vein. 

This blood sample is then sent to a laboratory and undergoes analysis. Various components are assessed, including the complete blood count (CBC), which evaluates different types of blood cells, and biochemistry tests that measure the levels of different substances in the blood, such as enzymes, electrolytes, and metabolic byproducts. 

These tests offer valuable information about organ function, the presence of infections, and overall metabolic health. The results aid in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of conditions, from anaemia to organ diseases, which helps the veterinarian develop effective treatment plans for your beloved pet. 

Benefits of external blood tests

• Minimally invasive
• Effective and accurate diagnosis
• Able to diagnose and monitor a wide range of diseases
• Aids in the early detection and treatment of various diseases
• Monitors progress of chronic conditions
• Identifies risk factors for certain diseases

What conditions can  aexternal blood tests diagnose? 

Blood tests are diagnostic tools that help identify, monitor, and manage various health conditions. Blood tests provide valuable information about the composition of the blood, organ function, and specific markers that may indicate the presence of certain diseases or abnormalities. 

Once a diagnosis is established through blood test results, appropriate treatments can be recommended. Here are some conditions that blood tests can help diagnose or monitor:

• Hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing’s disease) and hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s disease) in dogs
• Drug levels in blood: for e.g. phenobarbitone serum level for dogs which have seizures
• Babesiosis: tick fever 
• Immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia
• Antibody levels to certain diseases: raising antibody levels can indicate that your pet is currently infected with a certain disease
• Anaemia: blood tests, such as a Complete Blood Count (CBC), assess the quality and quantity of red blood cells to diagnose anaemia. 
• Infections: the presence of bacteria, viruses, or other microorganisms can be identified using blood tests. 
• Liver diseases: blood tests which cater to liver function assess the liver's health and can identify conditions such as hepatitis or liver damage.
• Kidney diseases: blood tests can analyse kidney function and diagnose conditions like chronic kidney disease.

What results can be expected from blood tests?  

From the moment your pet enters our clinic, their well-being is our top priority. Our experienced team at Dr Paws Vet Care begins by ensuring a warm and stress-free environment. During the initial consultation, we discuss your pet's health history and concerns so we can determine the most relevant diagnostic tests. 

In cases where additional specialised tests are required, we extend our services by sending samples to external labs renowned for their expertise. This collaborative approach allows for a comprehensive assessment and ensures accurate results. Once the external lab processes the tests, we compile a detailed report.

Upon completion, our team reaches out to discuss the results and provide a clear understanding of your pet's health status. Whether in-house tests or external lab analyses, our goal remains constant: providing you with the information needed to make informed decisions about your pet's care. 

How many blood tests are needed? 

The number of sessions required for external blood tests depends on the severity of the condition and your pet's health. Typically, only one session is necessary for diagnosis and treatment. However, more complex cases may require more than one session. Our vet can advise you on the number of sessions necessary.

If you are concerned about your pet’s well-being, please schedule an appointment with Dr Paws Vet Care for personalised treatment plans. 

Frequently asked questions 

How long does it take to receive test results sent to external labs?

The turnaround time for external lab results varies based on the specific tests. We make sure to keep you informed throughout the process. 

Can I receive a copy of my pet's blood test results?

Absolutely! We believe in transparent communication. You will receive a detailed report of your pet's blood test results, and our team will be available to discuss and explain the findings and address any questions or concerns you may have about your pet's health.

Can I choose not to send samples to an external lab?

While our in-house tests cover a wide range of blood tests, there are instances where specialised external testing may be recommended. Your veterinarian will discuss the reasons behind this recommendation and provide you with comprehensive information to make informed decisions about your pet's care.