Our hospital is equipped with a complete, sophisticated diagnostic laboratory that allows us to measure more than 100 laboratory values, with results often available in just a few minutes. Tests that cannot be performed at the hospital are sent out to veterinary diagnostic laboratories throughout the country. By taking advantage of our advanced laboratory capabilities, we are also able to monitor our patients with chronic problems more efficiently, often times even while you wait.

By performing some basic blood tests, the veterinarian can gather information concerning the health and well being of your pet. Two common blood tests performed are the complete blood count and blood chemistry profile. The complete blood count consists of several tests that evaluate the number and type of blood cells in the circulation. The blood chemistry test surveys many of the organ systems of the body (most common are kidney function, liver function and endocrine function) and provides information on how they are functioning. Most blood tests are performed on site at Shiloh Veterinary Hospital.

Heartworm and Lyme testing, complete blood count, blood-chemistry panel, urinalysis and fecal examination are the most common laboratory tests performed at our hospital. Below are short descriptions of each test.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)
CBC measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in a sample of blood. The numbers of each type of cell provides information to help diagnose anemia, infections and leukemia. If your pet is undergoing treatment for a condition, a complete blood count can help your veterinarian monitor how your pet is responding to the treatment.

Blood-Chemistry Panel (Chem)
A blood-chemistry panel measures electrolytes, enzymes and chemical elements of your pet's blood. Included in a Chem profile are important components such as calcium and phosphorous levels, liver enzymes, glucose and total protein. These measurements help your veterinarian determine how your pet's organs, such as kidneys, pancreas and liver, are functioning. Blood-chemistry panels help diagnose and treat illness, as well as monitor your pet's response to treatment. A Blood-Chemistry Panel is usually performed to screen for potential problems and risks before anesthesia is administered.

Fecal Examination (Fecal)
Your veterinarian may examine your pet's feces under a microscope for clues about many different kinds of diseases, including difficulties with digestion, internal bleeding and pancreas disorders. Most importantly, fecal examination confirm the presence of intestinal parasites, including roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, tapeworm and giardia. A fecal examination is part of your pet's wellness examination and is sent to our veterinary labratory. Results are returned usually withing 24 hours.

Urinalysis (UA)
Laboratory testing of your pet's urine can help detect the presence of specific substances that normally do not appear in urine, including protein, sugar, white blood cells or blood. Measuring the dilution or concentration of urine can also help your veterinarian diagnose illness. Urinalysis can be helpful in diagnosing urinary tract infections, diabetes, dehydration, kidney problems and other medical conditions.