Our Boulder and Westminster vets understand that it can be challenging to understand why your pet needs blood testing, and what those results mean. Today, we explain the results of the dog's blood tests.
Why is blood work important for dogs?
Performing blood tests as part of preventive care allows for the detection of the earliest signs of illness, even before any outward symptoms appear. Aiding in the detection, identification, diagnosis, and treatment of disease or illness is one of their key functions.
Early detection of diseases allows for earlier prevention and treatment. During routine exams, it is important for your vet to conduct blood tests for healthy pets. These tests help establish normal baseline values for comparison in the future, especially as your pet gets older.
What do blood tests for dogs show us?
Two common tests are a complete blood count (CBC) and a complete blood chemistry panel, which includes electrolytes and urinalysis. The CBC tests for anemia, inflammation, and infection. Additionally, it can predict the response of the immune system and the ability to form blood clots.
Your veterinarian can determine the health and proper functioning of your pet's liver, kidneys, and pancreas by analyzing the chemistry panel and electrolytes.
By performing this crucial laboratory work, complex issues within a dog's internal systems can be detected and identified. Dogs' blood tests can identify the source of hormonal-chemical responses, whether they are triggered by internal or external stimuli. A veterinarian may interpret this as a potential issue with the dog's endocrine system.
When will my dog need a blood test?
Countless circumstances can lead to your vet recommending that your dog have blood work done, such as:
- Your pet's first vet visit (to establish baseline data and for pre-anesthetic testing before a spaying or neutering procedure)
- Semi-annual routine exams as preventive care
- During senior exams, while looking for age-related conditions in the earliest stages
- As pre-surgical testing to identify your dog's risk of complications during surgery
- Before starting a new medication
- If your dog is showing symptoms or acting abnormally or “off”
- To help assess your pet's condition during an emergency visit
How long does blood work take at a vet?
For vets with an in-house lab, they can perform a variety of tests and get results quickly. The tests themselves only take a few minutes and may save your dog's life – not to mention future expenses for treatment or symptom management in the future. Some tests may take somewhat longer. Your vet can provide an accurate timeframe.
Abnormal test results may necessitate additional blood tests, which can help minimize the need for multiple trips and save valuable time.
How much are blood tests for dogs?
The cost of blood tests for your furry friend will vary depending on several factors, such as the number of tests needed and their complexity.
What do my dog's blood test results mean?
Typically, your dog's bloodwork will include a complete blood count (CBC) or blood chemistry (serum test). The CBC will be important for dogs that have pale gums or are experiencing vomiting, fever, weakness, or loss of appetite. Blood tests for dogs with diarrhea also fall into this category.
A CBC can also detect bleeding disorders or other abnormalities that may not be identified otherwise.
A CBC reveals detailed information, including:
- Hematocrit (HCT): With this test, we can identify the percentage of red blood cells to detect hydration or anemia.
- Hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (Hb and MCHC): These are pigments of red blood cells that carry oxygen.
- White blood cell count (WBC): With this test, we measure the body’s immune cells. Certain diseases or infections can cause WBC to increase or decrease.
- Granulocytes and lymphocytes/monocytes (GRANS and L/M): These are specific types of white blood cells.
- Eosinophils (EOS): These are a specific type of white blood cells that can indicate health conditions due to allergies or parasites.
- Platelet count: (PLT): This test measures cells that form blood clots.
- Reticulocytes (RETICS): High levels of immature red blood cells can point to regenerative anemia.
- Fibrinogen (FIBR): We can glean important information about blood clotting from this test. High levels can indicate a dog is 30 to 40 days pregnant.
What Blood Chemistries Reveal (Blood Serum Test):
Blood chemistries (serum tests) reveal information about a dog's organ function (liver, kidneys, and pancreas), hormone levels, electrolyte status, and other factors.
These tests can evaluate the health of older dogs, perform general health checks before anesthesia, and monitor dogs on long-term medications.
These tests also help us evaluate the health of senior dogs and those with disease symptoms (such as Addison's, diabetes, kidney disease, or others), diarrhea, vomiting, or toxin exposure.
Does my dog need blood tests and lab work?
Our veterinarians strongly advise performing blood tests and lab work during an annual routine exam, even if your dog seems perfectly healthy. This proactive approach helps ensure your dog's well-being and detects any potential issues early on. Detecting health issues early allows for more effective treatment, preserving your dog's health, saving time, and potentially treating or preventing painful symptoms.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.