Annual Diagnostic Testing
For most pet owners, dogs and cats are more than just animals. They offer comfort during life’s challenges, friendship during the good times, and almost always serve as a reminder to enjoy the simple things in life. And over the years – perhaps most importantly – pets become family. This special connection that develops between pets and their owners often means that it can be devastating when a pet is diagnosed with a serious illness. Fortunately, diagnostic testing offers you and your veterinarian a way to identify potential health problems early, intervene to treat the illness, and, hopefully, prolong your pet’s happy life.
Why is Regular Testing Important?
Some illnesses cannot be detected through physical examinations alone, and a sick cat of dog may not exhibit any noticeable symptoms. Diagnostic test play a crucial role in early detection of illnesses. The sooner a problem is found, the sooner your veterinarian can begin work to develop a treatment plan. This early intervention will not only improve the likelihood of a better outcome, but it will also improve your pet’s quality of life and cut down on treatment expenses.
Which Pets Should be Tested?
The most obvious group of pets that need diagnostic testing is dogs and cats that seem sick or just aren’t acting like themselves. For these pets, it’s essential that your veterinarian conduct a complete diagnostic workup as soon as possible. However, some illnesses cannot be detected by just a physical exam so regular testing of healthy pets is important.
In addition, regular diagnostic testing allows veterinarians to establish what is considered normal for your individual pet. While each test comes with a normal range of scores, these ranges do not always take into account specific breed, size, age, or past health history. The best way to determine whether your pet is sick is your pet’s own baseline score when he or she is healthy. Baseline test results become more important as pets age. Pets 7 years old and older should receive diagnostic testing annually to help identify any potential health problems.
What Tests Are Needed?
Most veterinarians recommend several test to establish the health of your pet. These tests can allow for early disease detection, which makes it easier for the veterinarian to treat hidden problems. Our veterinarians recommend that the following tests be done annually: complete blood count and chemistry, thyroid function (senior pets), urinalysis, and parasite exam (especially puppies). You can learn more about these tests in the Wellness section.
A Healthy Outcome
After all these diagnostic tests are completed, your veterinarian hopes that nothing is found. Why? Because that means your pet is healthy. And that’s the most vital test for cats and dogs to pass, year after year.
We would love to establish a baseline for your pet or find a diagnosis for your sick pet. Call today to set up an appointment. (208) 362-5329