Blood Testing in house laboratory

Haematology in our in house analyser:

Provides detailed information on red blood cells, different types of white blood cells and platelets. Can indicate anaemia, inflammation, stress, leukaemia, or an inability to fight infection. Platelets are involved in blood clotting, and if low can indicate a bleeding problem.

Biochemistry test in our in house analyser:

Usually performed as part of an investigation into illness checking mainly organ function.

Can also be used to provide individual baseline data for your pet.
To provide "peace of mind" if your pet is completely healthy especially in the over 8 years group.
To help detect diseases early, or before symptoms appear, so treatment can be given earlier and more effectively

Blood samples do not involve an anaesthetic but may occasionally require sedation for some pets. The sample has to be taken on an empty stomach and may involve a short time admitted into the Clinic for sample taking and preparation for testing. Please inform Reception if you are booking an appointment for one of our Health Screens and it may be possible to allocate time to perform the tests during a consulting period and so avoid pets having to stay in the Clinic any longer than necessary.

The Tests:

Blood Biochemistry Provides an "inside look" at your pet's vital organs, and so helps diagnose many diseases which may be associated with advancing age:
Albumin (ALB) - a protein produced by the liver. Reduced levels may indicate chronic liver or kidney disease, or intestinal disease.
Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) - an enzyme that increases with liver disease or injury.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALKP) - an enzyme produced by the biliary trace (liver). Elevated levels can indicate liver disease or Cushing's Syndrome.
Amylase (AMYL) - an enzyme produced by the pancreas, to aid in digestion. Levels rise with pancreatic and/or kidney disease.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) - produced by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Abnormal levels can occur with dehydration, liver or kidney disease.
Calcium (Ca) - increased levels may indicate certain tumours, parathyroid or kidney disease.
Cholesterol (CHOL) - raised levels seen in liver and kidney disease, and hypothyroidism.
Creatinine (CREA) - a by-product of muscle metabolism excreted by the kidneys. Levels rise with kidney disease or urinary tract obstruction.
Blood Glucose (GLU) - high levels can indicate diabetes. Low levels can indicate liver disease or infection.
Phosphorus (PHOS) - raised levels can be an indicator of kidney disease.
Total Bilirubin (TBIL) - secreted by the liver into the intestinal tract. Useful in diagnosing anaemia and bile duct problems.
Total Protein (TP) - useful indicator of dehydration, liver or kidney disease, or conditions of the gastrointestinal tract.

We also have a fast track link to a large external commercial laboratory capable of providing a very comprehensive range of tests.This laboratory will collect samples from our clinics at midday daily monday to Friday by courier to avoid delays or even losses & breakages in the post.Generally we pride ourselves on getting results back to patients far quicker than us humans might expect to receive.