How often should Wellness Testing be done? 

It is highly recommended that wellness blood testing be done at least once-a-year.  For your convenience testing can be performed at the same time as your pet's routine annual exam.  Since pets age much faster than humans, alot of changes can happen in one year.  On average every two months for a pet is the equivilant of one year for a  human. Monitoring your pets health status on a regular basis can help your veterinarion detect minor changes that signal the on set of disease.  Your pet's veterinarian may recommend more frequent testing based on your pet's specific health concerns.

 

There are four main categoris of wellness testing: 

 

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

This component of your pet's testing is checking the cellular components in your pets bloodstream.  The main components include: red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the tissues, white blood cells, which which fight infection and respond to inflammation, and platelets, which help the blood to clot.  A complete blood count will also provide details about the number, size and shape of various cells and identifies the presence of any abnormal cells. 

 

2. Biochemistry Profile

Tests involved in this portion of screening provide information about how well the various organs of the body are working and check for the presence of some metabolic diseases.  Some of the main organs assessed include the liver, kidneys,  pancreas and also checks for diabetes.  Depending on the results of your pet's biochemistry profile your veterinarian might recommend further, more specific testing such as x-rays or ultrasound.

 

3. Urinalysis

This test involves an analysis of the chemical components in your pets urine, as well as a microscopic examination of the cells and solid material present in urine.   Urinalysis provides a more detailed report of how well the kidneys are working, identifies the presence of inflamation or infection, identifies the presence of some urinary crystals and may detect the presence of underlying metabolic disease such as diabetes. 

 

4. Thyroid Testing

 The thyroid gland sets the metabolic rate of the whole body.  Some symptoms of thyroid malfunction include unexplained weight gain or loss, lack of energy, recurring skin or ear infections, or hair loss on the body and tail.

 

Summary 

Wellness testing is a simple and effective way of monitoring your pet's health.  Early detection and correction of medical problems help to ensure that your pet will have a long, healthy, and active life.