Something to “woof” about … robust lab testing services under one roof
We know you have many exceptional veterinarians to choose from in the midtown area of Toronto, Ontario. However, all vet clinics can differ considerably in terms of their onsite capabilities. At Upper Village Veterinary Hospital, we are proud to offer all of the diagnostic and therapeutic services your cat or dog will need under our well-appointed roof. Having these services under one roof only adds to your convenience and delivers a seamless care experience for your pet.
We also like to get answers to our clients as soon as possible, knowing that you are likely anxious to hear about what may be responsible for any changes to your pet’s health or behaviour. Moments also matter when it comes to more urgent or emergent conditions. We can collect, review, and analyze information about your pet quickly, which supports fast and effective treatment.
What are some routine tests that you order?
During your pet’s regular wellness exam, we may order bloodwork and urine testing (urinalysis). Since our pets cannot tell us how they feel and can be quite stoic when experiencing problems, it is important for us to use quantifiable information to uncover issues that may not manifest in symptoms or changes to your dog’s or cat’s behaviour. These health indicators are also not something that can be detected or assessed during the exam part of your visit when Dr. Steven Davidson looks and feels for any visible anomalies or things like suspicious lumps and bumps.
What do you mean by “bloodwork”?
A complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most common tests performed to analyze your pet’s blood. This test evaluates both the quantity and quality of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Findings can tell us a great deal about what may be wrong with your pet and can also be used to monitor the progression of disease and how well certain treatments may be working. So, CBC and related tests are helpful both when detecting conditions and recommending treatment, as well as for ongoing monitoring purposes.
How do you use urinalysis?
When we analyze samples of your pet’s urine, signs of disease or infections can present as changes in the colour or clarity of urine. Additionally, certain conditions like bacterial infections or UTIs are associated with a very pungent ammonia odour. Of course, urinalysis goes beyond what can be seen and smelled. The sample is chemically analyzed to assess density, pH, and urine composition, including protein and glucose levels. When certain solid components called “casts” are found in the urine, it can indicate kidney disease – which tends to affect many cats of a certain age. Bacteria in large amounts can indicate infections, while many red blood cells may indicate bleeding in the urinary tract.
Are there any other tests that may be ordered?
Yes. But that depends on your pet’s needs and health at a given time. If we suspect that your pet may have a parasitic infection, stool samples may be taken and analyzed. If imbalances in your pet’s hormones are suspected, endocrinology tests may be ordered. We can also assess for imbalances in electrolytes – the salts and compounds that have such a profound effect on organ function. A full blood chemistry profile may be on the horizon to measure enzymes and evaluate how well your pet’s liver, kidneys, or pancreas are functioning. Again, many of these tests and related services are simply part of a healthy dog’s or cat’s preventative or wellness programme.
If your pet is due for a wellness visit or if you suspect something is amiss with your companion, contact Upper Village Veterinary Hospital today. When you call our midtown Toronto, ON office at (647) 560-9276, be sure to ask about our money-saving in-house wellness plans. These plans cover the cost of many preventive services, all for a fair and affordable membership fee.
