Services
Pet In-House Laboratory in San Diego, CA
At The Pet Hospital of Tierrasanta in San Diego, CA, our in-house laboratory enables us to perform diagnostic testing for pets quickly and efficiently. Our pet in-house laboratory in San Diego, CA, offers a broad range of tests, allowing our veterinary team to make timely and informed decisions about your pet’s health. With this on-site laboratory, we can deliver accurate results that facilitate faster diagnoses and more personalized treatment options.
Importance of an In-House Laboratory for Pet Diagnostics
An in-house laboratory provides significant advantages for pets experiencing illness or symptoms requiring prompt evaluation. Unlike sending samples to an external facility, our in-house laboratory allows us to conduct immediate tests, shortening the wait time for results and enabling quicker treatment decisions. Whether a pet is experiencing an emergency or a routine wellness exam identifies a potential issue, rapid diagnostics help prioritize your pet’s health.
Diagnostic Tests Available at Our In-House Laboratory
Our pet in-house laboratory in San Diego, CA, provides a comprehensive suite of diagnostic services. These include essential tests to assess your pet’s overall health as well as specialized testing for specific conditions.
Blood Testing
Blood tests are fundamental to assessing your pet’s health. Common blood tests we perform include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates red and white blood cell counts, platelet levels, and more, which helps detect infections, anemia, and other blood disorders.
- Blood Chemistry Panel: Analyzes liver and kidney function, electrolyte levels, and blood glucose, providing insights into your pet’s organ health and metabolic status.
Urinalysis
Urinalysis helps us evaluate your pet’s kidney function, detect urinary tract infections, and monitor hydration. This test provides valuable data for managing kidney disease, diabetes, and other conditions affecting the urinary system.
Parasite Testing
Parasite screenings are essential for the health and wellness of your pet. In addition to fecal analysis, we offer tests for heartworm, tick-borne diseases, and other parasites that may not show visible symptoms until they have already affected your pet’s health.
Cytology and Microscopy
Cytology allows us to examine cell samples closely for pets with skin or ear infections, lumps, or unusual lesions. By analyzing these cells under a microscope, we can identify infections, allergic reactions, and even abnormal cell growth, aiding in the early detection of more serious health issues.
Fecal Analysis
Fecal testing is used to detect gastrointestinal parasites, bacteria, and abnormal digestion. This test is crucial for pets showing signs of digestive distress, including vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss, and helps protect against common parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and giardia.
When Might Your Pet Need Laboratory Services?
Pets often need laboratory testing as part of their annual wellness exam to establish a baseline for their health. Additionally, diagnostic tests are recommended if your pet shows any of these signs:
- Unexplained weight loss or changes in appetite
- Frequent vomiting, diarrhea, or digestive issues
- Lethargy, weakness, or sudden behavioral changes
- Changes in urination, including increased frequency or difficulty
- Signs of pain, swelling, or visible growths
Advantages of Our In-House Laboratory Services
The pet in-house laboratory at The Pet Hospital of Tierrasanta provides multiple benefits, from convenience to faster treatment initiation. Here are some of the key advantages:
With our in-house lab, most test results are available the same day, often within hours, allowing us to promptly diagnose and treat health concerns.
There’s no need to send samples to outside labs, making it easier and faster to address your pet’s health needs without multiple visits.
Our in-house lab equipment is designed specifically for veterinary use, providing accurate and reliable results for effective diagnosis and treatment planning.
Eliminating the need for external labs reduces costs, allowing us to provide high-quality diagnostics more affordably.