In-House Laboratory

In-House Laboratory: Swift Diagnosis for Your Beloved Pets

At Crossroads Animal Hospital, we understand that every moment counts when your furry companion falls ill or faces an emergency. That’s why our cutting-edge in-house laboratory is dedicated to providing timely and accurate diagnostic test results to aid our veterinarians in formulating the best treatment plan for your pet. We take pride in offering over-the-top care, and our state-of-the-art laboratory equipment allows us to deliver results within minutes, ensuring we act swiftly to support your pet’s well-being.

We understand the emotional bond you share with your pet. Their well-being is at the core of our practice, and we are committed to keeping you informed every step of the way. Our veterinary team will guide you through the diagnostic process, explaining the purpose and significance of each test. Your involvement is essential to us, and we encourage you to ask any questions you may have to ensure the best possible care for your beloved companion.

Our In-Hospital Laboratory for Your Pet’s Needs

When your pet becomes suddenly ill or in the event of an emergency, timely diagnostic test results are extremely important to help your veterinarian determine the best treatment plan. We have state-of-the-art in-hospital laboratory equipment capable of yielding lab results within minutes. Baseline laboratory testing for your sick pet may include the following:

• Determination of Blood Cell Counts: Changes in white blood cell counts, red blood cell counts, and platelet counts can indicate problems such as anemia, dehydration, infection, auto-immune disease, and certain types of cancerous conditions.
• Blood Chemistry Tests: These tests assess liver function, kidney function, blood sugar, blood proteins, calcium and phosphorus levels, and pancreatic function.
• Electrolyte Tests: Sodium, potassium, and chloride levels may be abnormal when your pet is dehydrated or has fluid loss through vomiting or diarrhea. Intravenous fluids and/or supplementation may be indicated when electrolytes are severely deranged.
• SNAP Tests: Point-of-care “snap” tests are available for certain infectious diseases such as Feline Leukemia and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, Canine Parvovirus, Giardia, and Leptospirosis.
• Coagulation Tests: These tests detect deficiency in clotting disorders, which can be present in cases of certain kinds of rodenticide poisoning and severe liver disease/failure.
• Microscopy: Microscopic evaluation of bodily fluids, including blood, urine; samples of skin and ear secretions, and needle biopsies of swellings or tumors can be performed in-clinic to assist in the diagnosis of systemic diseases, urinary disorders, skin and ear diseases, and differentiation of benign vs. cancerous tumors.

Our veterinary team will help explain which tests are most important for your pet. It is essential for us to include you in the decision-making process for your pet, so please don’t hesitate to ask a question if you need clarification.