Diagnostic Services
Our in-house lab also includes a state-of-the-art ABAXIS machine, which is the same technology used in NASA space shuttles. This machine allows us to take very small blood samples, minimizing pain, and enables us to get various results back in mere minutes. We also offer a full range of clinical pathology services including urine analysis, fecal analysis, bacterial and fungal cultures, and basic cytology. We utilize local and national veterinary laboratory services for evaluation of other tissue and organ functions, and for histological and cytological testing.
See Also: Wellness, Surgical, Dental, Boarding and Grooming Services
Bloodwork
We recommend performing routine screening bloodwork as cats and dogs enter their senior years, approximately 7 years of age. This is the time when many disease processes such as kidney and liver disease, Cushings disease, diabetes, hyper and hypothyroidism begin. All of these diseases can be present and causing internal changes without obvious symptoms until the disease is in its advanced stages. Routine screening can help to detect these and other diseases early, when they are easier to treat, which can lead to a better long term prognosis and longer, healthier life.
Digital X-Rays
These imaging techniques are essential for assessing patients with a wide variety of ailments. We use X-rays to diagnose everything from broken bones to heart disease. Special procedures such as a barium series help us to evaluate the gastrointestinal tract and detect such problems as a foreign object creating an obstruction. We also use radiology to evaluate dogs for hip and elbow dysplasia. These radiographs are submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) for those patients seeking certification.
Digital Dental X-Rays
A great deal of dental disease occurs below the gum line, and can't be seen on an oral exam.
Every patient undergoing a dental prophylaxis (dental cleaning) will have dental x-rays taken, as well as "before: and "after" images. Using these radiographs we can spot root abscesses, fractures, broken teeth, tumors and lesions. This allows us to devise a treatment plan appropriate for any conditions found.
Ultrasound
We use ultrasound to evaluate animals for pregnancy, to examine the bladder for stones or tumors, and to evaluate the abdomen for the presence of tumors. This is a non-invasive technique that gives a more detailed image of soft tissue structures than X-rays do.
Ultrasound allows much greater diagnostic capabilities on your pet. We can see into the abdomen and examine the kidneys, liver, prostate or uterus. Ultrasound is the best way to evaluate the heart for diseases, allowing optimal treatment
Endoscopy
Endoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure, performed on an anesthetized patient, which can have great diagnostic and therapeutic value. We use it to evaluate the stomach and intestinal tract, and we can take a biopsy of any abnormal tissue that we visualize.
Another function of the endoscope is to aid the veterinarian in the removal of foreign objects. Using the endoscope as a guide, the veterinarian may be able to remove objects such as toys, buttons and other foreign objects more quickly and without resorting to major surgery.
Ophthalmology
The field of ophthalmology studies all the structures of the eye including the eyelids, tear ducts, eye globe and nerve paths.
Eye diseases are common in dogs and also frequently seen in cats.
Many breeds of dogs have a genetic predisposition to eye disease, ranging from painful eyelid abnormalities to retinal atrophy. Eyelid problems are surgically corrected prevent pain and ulceration. Corneal ulcers should be treated as soon as possible. Never use any eye medication on your pet without consulting your veterinarian first.
Cardiology
Heart disease in pets, as in people, can be either present at birth or acquired, often developing during middle age. Acquired heart disease is more common, affecting many older dogs.
Although some of the early stages of heart failure in dogs have no visible signs, heart failure can be diagnosed through a clinical evaluation by our veterinarians.
Success of treatment depends on various factors, but early detection is always best.
An electrocardiogram, or ECG, provides diagnostic information about the heart's rate and rhythm. Our veterinarians use the ECG results to identify electrical disturbances and abnormalities in our patient's hearts.
Oncology
The focus of Oncology Services is to provide treatment options that meet the specific needs of each client whose pet has been diagnosed with cancer. These options may include conventional chemotherapy, new investigatory therapies, and palliative or supportive care.
We believe that success in providing options and helping families is best achieved with close communication between the Oncology Service, the primary care veterinarian, and the family.
Ultimately, our goal is to preserve, lengthen, and improve quality of life for dogs and cats that are afflicted with cancer.