Bloodwork Services for Pets

Bloodwork is one type of diagnostic testing we perform at our hospital. We have an onsite laboratory that can provide results in a short time. By performing bloodwork, our team can take a closer look at your pet's well-being. To learn more about our bloodwork services, call us at 250-376-6797.

How can I prepare my pet for bloodwork?

When your pet has bloodwork scheduled, they must fast at least 6 hours before they come in. This ensures we get a good sample, as eating before can result in a fatty sample and re-testing. Although we recommend fasting, from time to time, our veterinarian may perform impromptu testing and still get a good sample.

In some cases, blood samples must be drawn at specific times over an extended period. Your pet may need to be kept at the hospital for a few hours or, in certain circumstances, overnight. Our team will inform you how to prepare for these situations.

How are blood samples collected?

Our veterinary assistants are experienced in collecting blood samples from patients. We are trained to make the process as easy as possible while ensuring your loyal companion is comfortable. The blood is usually taken from a vein in your pet's neck or leg.

What can we learn from your pet's blood?

Several components of the blood show your pet's overall health. Our veterinarian can learn your pet's complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry and thyroid levels ,from a blood sample. Here's why these factors are important:

• CBC: Provides important information about the types and numbers of blood cells in your pet's blood. A low number of red blood cells, for example, indicates anemia, while a high number of white blood cells can indicate an infection, chronic inflammation, or other disease process.
• Blood chemistry profile: Significant for evaluating organ function (e.g., liver, kidneys), electrolytes, blood sugar, screening for clues that an endocrine disorder may be present, etc. Any abnormalities will help direct your pet's veterinarian on any further diagnostic tests that may be necessary.
• Thyroxine (T4): Measures the level of a thyroid hormone and helps to screen for hypothyroidism (low) and hyperthyroidism (too high) diseases. The thyroid gland in the neck makes a hormone called thyroxine that controls metabolism (the process of turning food into fuel). With hypothyroidism, the gland doesn't make enough of that hormone.