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Lab Services

Our lab services give us fast answers about your pet’s health. In-house testing lets us check blood, urine, and stool samples, often during the same visit.

These tests help diagnose infections, kidney and liver disease, diabetes, parasites, and more. We also use them before surgery to make sure anesthesia is safe.

For healthy pets, routine screening creates a baseline for future comparison. That way, we can catch subtle changes early and start treatment sooner.

Lab Services

Understanding Diagnostic Lab Services

Laboratory services encompass a wide range of diagnostic tests and analyses that provide detailed information about an animal’s internal health status. These services involve collecting and examining various biological samples, including blood, urine, tissue, and other bodily fluids, to evaluate organ function, detect disease, and monitor overall health.

Through precise scientific analysis, laboratory diagnostics reveal important markers and indicators that cannot be observed through physical examination alone. This systematic approach to testing helps veterinarians understand complex medical conditions, track changes in health over time, and make informed decisions about treatment plans that best serve each patient’s needs.

Lab Services

Our Lab Services

Determination of Blood Cell Counts

Through precise analysis of blood cell counts, we can identify various health conditions affecting your pet. Changes in white blood cell counts may indicate the presence of infection or inflammation, while variations in red blood cell counts can signal conditions like anemia or dehydration. We also evaluate platelet counts to assess your pet’s blood clotting ability and screen for certain autoimmune conditions or potential cancerous disorders.

Blood Chemistry Tests

Our comprehensive blood chemistry panels provide crucial information about your pet’s organ function and overall metabolic health. These tests evaluate liver and kidney performance, assess blood sugar levels, measure blood proteins, and monitor calcium and phosphorus balance. By analyzing these parameters, we can detect early signs of organ dysfunction, metabolic disorders, or systemic diseases, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

Electrolyte Tests

Maintaining proper electrolyte balance is essential for your pet’s health. Our electrolyte testing measures critical minerals like sodium, potassium, and chloride, which can become imbalanced due to conditions such as dehydration, vomiting, or diarrhea. Understanding these levels helps us determine if your pet needs fluid therapy or electrolyte supplementation to restore proper balance and maintain optimal organ function.

SNAP Tests

Our point-of-care SNAP tests provide rapid results for various infectious diseases, enabling quick diagnosis and treatment decisions. We can test for conditions such as Feline Leukemia, Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, Canine Parvovirus, Giardia, and Leptospirosis. These efficient diagnostic tools allow us to begin appropriate treatment promptly, improving your pet’s chances of recovery.

Coagulation Tests

We perform specialized coagulation testing to evaluate your pet’s blood clotting ability. These tests are particularly important in cases of suspected rodenticide poisoning or severe liver disease. By identifying clotting disorders early, we can implement appropriate treatment measures to prevent potentially dangerous bleeding complications.

Microscopy

Our advanced microscopy capabilities enable detailed examination of various bodily fluids and tissue samples. Through microscopic evaluation of blood, urine, skin samples, ear secretions, and tissue biopsies, we can diagnose systemic diseases, urinary disorders, skin conditions, ear infections, and distinguish between benign and potentially cancerous growths.

Our Diagnostic Laboratory Process

Reviewing Your Pet’s Health History

Dr. Damian Pavlovski begins by carefully reviewing your pet’s medical records, current symptoms, and any ongoing health concerns. Our veterinary team takes time to understand your observations about changes in your pet’s behavior or condition. This detailed background helps us select the most appropriate diagnostic tests for accurate results.

Selecting the Right Diagnostic Tests

Based on your pet’s specific symptoms and health history, we determine which laboratory tests will provide the most valuable information. Dr. Damian Pavlovski, DVM explains each recommended test, its purpose, and how the results will guide treatment decisions. We also discuss any preparation needed for testing.

Gentle Sample Collection

Our experienced technicians use careful, pet-friendly techniques to collect samples quickly and comfortably. Whether we need a blood sample, urine specimen, or tissue sample, we prioritize your pet’s comfort throughout the process. Many pets barely notice the quick, skilled collection methods we employ.

Expert Laboratory Analysis

Your pet’s samples undergo thorough analysis in our advanced in-house laboratory. Our skilled technicians process each sample with precision and attention to detail. For specialized tests, we partner with trusted reference laboratories that maintain the highest standards of diagnostic accuracy.

Understanding Your Pet’s Results

We take time to explain your pet’s test results in clear, understandable terms. Dr. Damian Pavlovski, DVM discusses what the findings mean for your pet’s health and answers all your questions. Together, we develop a treatment approach that addresses your pet’s specific needs.

Why Choose Us for Lab Services

At Milpitas Pet Clinic, our lab services stand apart through a powerful combination of advanced technology, skilled expertise, and deep compassion for your pets. Our in-house diagnostic capabilities deliver critical results within minutes when time matters most, while our partnerships with leading reference laboratories ensure access to specialized testing that uncovers complex health conditions.

Dr. Damian Pavlovski, DVM excels at explaining complicated medical findings in clear, practical terms – because we believe informed pet parents make better healthcare decisions.

Lab Services

FAQs

What is a veterinary diagnostic laboratory?

A veterinary diagnostic laboratory is a specialized facility equipped with advanced testing equipment and staffed by trained professionals who analyze various samples to evaluate pet health. These laboratories perform tests on blood, urine, tissue samples, and other specimens to help veterinarians diagnose illnesses, monitor chronic conditions, and assess overall pet wellness.

Does pet insurance cover diagnostic tests?

Most pet insurance policies cover diagnostic tests when they’re medically necessary, though coverage varies by provider and plan type. Some policies may require a deductible or have specific limitations on certain types of tests. We recommend checking with your insurance provider about specific coverage details for laboratory diagnostics.

What is the best diagnostic scan pet CT or MRI?

Both CT (Computed Tomography) and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans serve different diagnostic purposes. CT scans excel at detecting bone abnormalities and certain soft tissue conditions, while MRIs provide superior detail of soft tissues, particularly in the brain and spine. The best choice depends on your pet’s specific symptoms and condition.

What are diagnostic tests that vets do?

Veterinarians perform a wide range of diagnostic tests including blood work (complete blood counts and chemistry panels), urinalysis, fecal examinations, x-rays, ultrasounds, cytology, and specialized disease screening. These tests help identify infections, assess organ function, detect cancer, monitor chronic conditions, and evaluate overall health status.

Get Quick Answers With Our Lab Services

Our lab services help us find answers quickly, so your pet can feel better sooner. Book an appointment with Milpitas Pet Clinic today.

Our consistent 5-star ratings on Yelp reflect our commitment to excellence in veterinary diagnostics and patient care.

Reach out to us at 408-956-1044 to schedule your pet’s laboratory testing, or click the button below to book your appointment online. Experience the difference that precise, caring diagnostics can make for your pet’s well-being.

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