The Tests Your Dog Needs In The Lowcountry

It’s time for your dog’s annual wellness check, and the vet has recommended different tests. Your first thought might be that there’s something wrong, and you may have noticed symptoms that you’ve shared with your vet. But it may be just standard testing. 

Just like our doctors want to make sure that we have the right levels, the same goes for our pets. 

WHAT TESTS ARE NECESSARY FOR A DOG IN THE LOWCOUNTRY

Chemistry Panel:

Depending on the age of your dog certain tests are chemistry screenings are recommended. Throughout their lifespan, the vet will most likely always order tests for electrolytes, calcium, phosphorus, bilirubin, glucose, and protein.

CBC (Complete Blood Count):

A complete blood count is just as it sounds. The test counts the number of white and red blood cells and makes a comparison to see if they are in normal range.

Urinalysis:

A urinalysis looks for blood in the urine, white blood cells and crystals in the urine, as well as abnormal amounts of glucose, ketones and protein, and urine concentration.

Thyroid Panel:

This panel of tests measures the total thyroid function to gauge the levels of hormones present in the blood.

Other:

Depending on your dog's breed, age, and any symptoms they may be exhibiting your vet may also recommend “organ specific” tests. There are different panels that focus on the liver, pancreas, kidneys, bones and muscles.

WHEN DOES MY DOG NEED THESE TESTS

Puppies should get testing done on their first visit, to ensure there are no congenital issues, and to have a baseline for future visits. At age two or three, it’s common to have a complete physical exam, CBC, urinalysis thyroid panel, and any other test that might be indicated for your breed or individual dog.

Breeders especially need to make sure that their animals are getting the appropriate testing. Golden retrievers, for example, require a Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) test. This is a DNA test that checks for a genetic disorder that can cause problems with the nervous system. Pugs are also given a different DNA test that checks for Pug Dog Encephalitis, an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Throughout their life your dog may require additional tests, but generally, the same tests are required just with a higher frequency. 

WHEN SHOULD I ASK FOR A BLOOD TEST FOR MY DOG

If you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms or a combination of them, you may want to talk to your vet about further testing:

• Bad breath or drooling
• Excessive drinking or urination
• Appetite change associated with weight loss or gain
• Change in activity level (e.g., lack of interest in doing things they once did)
• Stiffness or difficulty in rising or climbing stairs
• Sleeping more than normal, or other behavior or attitude changes 
• Coughing, sneezing, excessive panting, or labored breathing
• Dry or itchy skin, sores, lumps, or shaking of the head
• Frequent digestive upsets or change in bowel movements
• Dry, red, or cloudy eyes.

Our dogs are part of the family, and we want to make sure they are healthy and happy. Early diagnosis in many cases, can allow you and your vet to come up with a wellness plan that will keep them curled up at your feet or on your lap for years to come. 

Give us a call here in the Lowcountry, at (843) 580-6209 to get the tests they need.