Lab Diagnostics and Digital X-Ray for Dogs and Cats in Bear, DE
A physical examination gives us surface-level information about your pet’s health. But for a broader and more detailed understanding that allows us to provide better care, we turn to our diagnostic tools. At Summit Bridge Veterinary Hospital, we frequently use our in-house laboratory and digital X-ray equipment for general screenings and sickness care. Similar to our need for regular blood work and checkups, dogs and cats also need, and benefit from, regular blood testing so we can evaluate their condition and check for potential problems.
Call or text our hospital today at (302) 834-7387 to schedule a checkup for your pet, or request an appointment online.
Why Your Pet Needs Routine Blood Work
Dogs and cats age quickly compared to humans, and can experience sudden health changes, especially as they age. To monitor for these changes and detect underlying health issues early enough to treat them, we need to perform routine blood tests. These help us determine a baseline of health for your pet, and make it easier for us to notice changes in blood and organ values that might indicate a problem.
These blood tests typically include:
- CBC (complete blood count)
- Blood chemistry
- Comprehensive blood panel
- Heartworm test
- Tick-borne disease test
We also recommend routine fecal exams to check your pet for intestinal parasites. If you are bringing them in soon for a general wellness exam, be sure to bring along a fresh stool sample as well!
The Importance of X-Ray for Dogs and Cats
While digital radiography (X-ray) is an excellent tool for checking for bone and joint problems, we can also use it to check the heart and lungs. Our hospital uses digital X-ray technology, which is faster than traditional film X-ray and produces higher-quality radiographs for review. If needed, we can also email your pet’s X-rays to another vet or to a specialist.
With X-ray, we can detect things that may not be apparent with a physical exam or even blood work. Furthermore, it can help us more accurately diagnose bone fractures, bone deformities, joint disorders, arthritis, and heart and lung diseases. We can also use X-ray to check for foreign bodies if needed.
Lump and Bump Cancer Screening for Dogs using VISTA iQ
We know how concerning it can be to find a lump or bump on your dog. That’s why we’re proud to offer a new way to screen canine lumps and bumps with the VISTA iQ. The VISTA iQ is an advanced, gentle cancer-screening tool designed specifically for dogs, enabling us to assess the risk of your dog’s lump in real-time without any invasive procedures.
Sadly, around half of dogs over the age of 10 develop cancer, and about one-third of these cases involve skin tissue. Catching potential problems early can make a big difference in your dog’s long-term quality of life, which is why we’ve invested in this innovative technology.
What is the VISTA iQ?
The VISTA iQ is a safe, non-invasive screening tool that helps us assess your dog’s lumps and bumps, no needles involved.
Why pet owners love it:
- No needles
- Quick 40-second scan
- Results in just 2 minutes
- Highly accurate
- Comfortable and well-tolerated by dogs