When your pet is sick or injured, they can’t tell us what’s wrong. A thorough physical exam and history (symptoms you’ve noted at home) are the first important step. If the diagnosis is not immediately evident upon initial assessment, your veterinarian will recommend specific diagnostic tests. These may include:
- Laboratory testing for baseline blood counts and organ function tests, or infectious disease. Blood and/or urine samples may be collected from your pet, for point-of-care testing, or reference lab tests. Point-of-care tests are those tests that are done on-site in our hospital so as to be able to determine results and make treatment recommendations in the most timely fashion possible. In other cases, lab samples may need to be sent off to off-site laboratories (reference laboratories) – when the test cannot be performed with in-hospital lab equipment, or when the test results are not needed urgently.
- Imaging such as x-rays or ultrasound, which allows diagnosis of conditions of the heart and lungs, gastrointestinal obstruction, tumors of the internal organs or bones, fluid in the chest or abdominal cavity, urinary stones or gallstones, reproductive diseases, and bone/joint disorders. For most patients, gentle restraint can be used for these procedures, however, in some cases, sedation may be necessary.
- Microscopy is quite useful in the evaluation of lab samples such as ear swabs, skin impressions and scrapes, and needle biopsies of tumors. These tests are helpful in diagnosis of dermatologic and otic (ear) conditions.
- Ocular conditions may warrant evaluation for tear production (Schirmer Tear Test), corneal injuries (fluorescein stain), or abnormal intra-ocular pressures (Tonometry).
Diagnostic testing is an important step in the development of a treatment plan for your pet, allowing your veterinarian to most effectively target the underlying problem(s) and assess the probability of successful treatment. Your veterinarian can explain the purpose of each diagnostic test for your pet, and help prioritize which tests may be most helpful in determining the cause of your pet’s illness.
Please call for pricing on the specific testing you need.
- Parvo tests, Feline FIV/Felv screenings, Heartworm screenings, Chemistry profiles, CBC, Thyroid panel (T4 and cholesterol) and PT/PTT.
- Fecal examinations, Ear cytology, Vaginal cytology, Ear mite examinations, Skin scraping, and Urinalysis.
- One view radiograph $119
- Two view radiograph $196
- Additional views at reduced price
Ultrasound is a non-invasive and non-radiographic technology that allows us to actually see inside the body. Unlike x-rays, there is no radiation exposure to the patient.
Ultrasound can be used for a variety of diagnostic procedures such as:
- Identify bladder stones and tumors
- Ultrasound guided cystocentesis to obtain a sterile urine sample
- Ultrasound guided aspirates of lungs
- Abdominal ultrasound for masses and dysfunctional abdominal organs
- Heart valve defects and other changes in the heart
Ultrasound is also used to perform pregnancy checks on goats, dogs, and cats.
- Dogs – 30 days
- Goats – 30 days
The Benefits of Digital Dental X-rays for Pets
When your dog or cat has periodontal disease, much of the damage takes place below the gum line where neither you nor your veterinarian at Bar N Veterinary Clinic can see it. For this reason, we use digital dental x-rays to determine your pet’s oral health. Digital x-rays are safer for your pet and allow our staff to see the bones, roots, and internal anatomy of the teeth.
What to Expect When Your Pet Needs Dental X-Rays
Dental x-rays are taken in conjunction with a full oral exam and cleaning. General anesthesia is required to provide a complete assessment of your pet’s mouth, including teeth and bone structure.
Why Digital Dental X-Rays Are Superior
The risk of radiation exposure for your pet is significantly lower with digital x-rays than traditional x-ray equipment. In fact, exposure is nearly non-existent. Digital dental x-rays make it possible to see below the surface of your pet’s gum line to fully evaluate each tooth. This technology enables the veterinarian to see results immediately and project them onto a computer screen to review. At this point, we are able to assess and develop a treatment plan.
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