In-Clinic Diagnostic

Virgin Valley Veterinary Hospital is pleased to offer the most comprehensive diagnostic lab available in veterinary medicine to our clients. In the past, blood work had to be sent to an outside diagnostic laboratory for analysis, but our instruments provide our doctors results within minutes so treatment can begin immediately if needed for your pet.

Complete Blood Count (C.B.C.)

One of the analyzers at our hospital is a complete blood count (or “C.B.C.”) unit. This instrument can give our doctors an accurate red blood cell, white blood cell, and platelet count for your pet. An increase in red cells can indicate dehydration or a disease associated with increases in red blood cells; decreases may indicate anemia. An increase in white cells can indicate stress or leukemia, while decreases may mean inflammation or bone marrow failure. Finally, platelets can indicate how well your pet’s blood may be able to clot in the event of surgery.

Blood Chemistries

The blood chemistry analyzer at Virgin Valley Veterinary Hospital gives our doctors valuable information regarding the organ function of pets. Liver, kidney and pancreas functionality can quickly be determined in our laboratory. These functions are extremely important prior to surgery to determine how well your pet may process anesthesia through their body. Also, pets that may have issues that cannot be determined on a physical exam can benefit through blood chemistry testing. Finally, electrolyte levels can be evaluated to determine if your pet may need fluid administration due to an accident or during a surgical procedure.

Blood diagnostics are extremely important in veterinary medicine, since pets cannot tell us where they may be hurting. Blood work can point the doctors at Virgin Valley Veterinary Hospital in the right direction so they can begin care and treatment of your furry family member right away. Our staff will also recommend blood work prior to any surgical procedure to ensure the animal’s organs can process the anesthesia associated with surgery. If your pet is not behaving normally or is in need of a surgical procedure, call the team at Virgin Valley Veterinary Hospital to have your pet’s blood work done today!