Diagnostics for Dogs and Cats

Diagnostics for Dogs and Cats

Using state-of-the-art technology to detect, understand, and treat health concerns early.

In-House and Reference Laboratories

In-house laboratory

In-house laboratory testing is a convenient option that allows our team to diagnose many pet illnesses while you wait. Our laboratory capabilities include essential blood and urine testing, skin and ear cytology testing, and more. Bedside test results enable us to obtain critical health information in minutes, eliminating the time lag associated with sending out tests and allowing us to formulate and begin a treatment plan without delay. 

Reference laboratory

We partner with top-tier reference laboratories for specialized and non-urgent tests. Reference labs provide comprehensive diagnostic services, including blood panels, histopathology, cultures, and more, to help us reach an accurate diagnosis. Tests sent to Idexx complement our in-house laboratory by providing a more complete picture of your pet’s health. Common tests we send out to reference laboratories include:

  • Tumor biopsies
  • Hormone testing
  • Fungal testing
  • Culture and sensitivity testing
  • Cancer screening
  • Routine wellness checks
  • PCR and infectious disease testing
  • Urinary stone analysis

Digital Imaging For Better Answers

X-ray

X-rays are a vital diagnostic tool for examining your pet’s bones, joints, chest, abdomen, bladder, and other internal structures. Our hospital uses digital X-ray technology, which provides instant, high-quality images while reducing the need for retakes and minimizing radiation exposure. Our veterinarians can interpret initial X-ray studies and are capable of sending images to a radiology specialist for expert review. Reasons we may take X-rays of your pet include:

  • Suspected fracture or soft tissue injury
  • Vomiting
  • Urinary tract problems
  • Abnormal abdominal palpation
  • Heart murmur
  • Coughing or difficulty breathing

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides detailed, three-dimensional, real-time images of your pet’s internal organs without radiation. At Red Pine Trails Animal Hospital, we use ultrasound to evaluate abdominal organs, obtain biopsies, and collect urine. Our hospital also offers echocardiography, a specialized ultrasound examination to assess heart function, through traveling cardiology/imaging specialists.

Abdominal ultrasound

An abdominal ultrasound is a complete scan of your pet’s internal organs, including the liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, adrenal glands, pancreas, gallbladder, and intestines. Non-invasive abdominal ultrasound is essential for diagnosing tumors, evaluating organ size and appearance, and obtaining ultrasound-guided needle biopsy samples. Our skilled veterinarians obtain detailed measurements and image snapshots during an abdominal scan. These are sent to a radiologist who will then create a report to guide us in developing a treatment plan for your furry pal’s health concerns.