Lab Services at Santa Cruz Animal Clinic in Brandon, FL

Our comprehensive pet lab services at Santa Cruz Animal Clinic in Brandon, FL, ensure prompt, accurate diagnoses for effective treatment plans.

Lab Services

Comprehensive Pet Lab Services

At Santa Cruz Animal Clinic in Brandon, FL, we offer comprehensive pet lab services designed to meet your pet’s diagnostic needs. Our facility is equipped to perform various tests that allow us to quickly and accurately diagnose health issues. Providing these services in-house ensures timely results, crucial for effective treatment plans.

The Importance of In-House Laboratory Services

In-house laboratory services at Santa Cruz Animal Clinic enables us to attain quick results right at your visit. When a pet is ill or injured, waiting for test results from an external lab can delay treatment. Our in-house capabilities enable prompt diagnosis, allowing for immediate intervention, which can be critical in emergency situations.

Another benefit is the convenience for pet owners. Instead of making multiple trips for tests and consultations, everything can be handled in one place, reducing stress on the pet and the owner. Additionally, our veterinarians directly oversee testing procedures, ensuring high standards of quality and accuracy.

A vet in blue shirt gently pets a fluffy cat

Types of Diagnostic Tests Available

Blood Work: Comprehensive Blood Count and Biochemical Panels

Blood tests are essential for assessing your pet’s overall health. At Santa Cruz Animal Clinic, we conduct comprehensive blood counts (CBC) and biochemical panels. These tests provide valuable information about blood cells and organ function, helping diagnose conditions such as anemia, infections, and metabolic disorders.

Urinalysis and Sediment Examination

Urinalysis helps detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, and other conditions. By examining urine sediment, we can identify crystals, bacteria, and cells, offering further insights into your pet’s health. This test is beneficial for older pets and those with urinary problems.

Cytology of Skin and Ear Samples

Cytology involves examining cells from skin and ear samples under a microscope, allowing us to identify infections, allergies, or parasites. We can prescribe the most effective treatment by determining whether the issue is bacterial, fungal, or parasitic.

Fecal Testing for Intestinal Parasites

Fecal testing detects intestinal parasites such as worms and protozoa. Early detection and treatment prevent the spread of these parasites to other pets and humans.

Occult Heartworm, Lyme, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasma Testing

Heartworm and tick-borne diseases pose significant health risks to pets. Occult heartworm testing detects infections not apparent through physical symptoms alone. Tests for Lyme, Ehrlichia, and Anaplasma are essential for diagnosing tick-borne diseases, which can cause severe conditions if left untreated.

Parvo Tests

Parvovirus is a highly contagious and potentially deadly virus affecting dogs, particularly puppies. Early detection through parvo tests is vital for effective treatment and preventing the spread of the virus.

Exotic Pet Testing: CBC and Chemistries

Exotic pets, such as birds, reptiles, and small mammals, require specialized care. Our lab performs complete blood counts and biochemical tests for these unique pets, ensuring precise diagnostics.

When to Seek Pet Lab Services

Routine wellness exams often include laboratory testing, especially for older pets or those with chronic health conditions. Specific signs indicating the need for immediate diagnostic testing include unexplained weight changes, changes in appetite or thirst, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and persistent skin or ear issues.

Santa Cruz Animal Clinic in Brandon, FL, provides essential pet lab services, ensuring pets receive prompt and accurate diagnoses. Our wide range of in-house diagnostic tests supports effective treatment plans, ensuring your pets’ health and well-being through every life stage.