Pet Diagnostics
We provide advanced pet diagnostics and care in Old Chatham, NY, ensuring your beloved furry friends receive the best treatment.
Pet Diagnostic Tools in Old Chatham, NY
Whether it’s the result of a fall or the possibility of pregnancy, there are many instances in which diagnostic imaging is required in veterinary medicine. Our pet diagnostic services include in-house lab testing, radiography (X-rays), and ultrasound, all of which allow for a painless, non-invasive internal examination of pets. These services are often used together to obtain the most accurate diagnosis. Because these services are available in-house, we can get diagnoses faster, so your pet can receive treatment more quickly.
In-House Laboratory Testing at Wood Hill Veterinary Clinic
Our animal hospital possesses state-of-the-art diagnostic testing capabilities that allow us to assess blood cell count, liver and kidney function, electrolyte levels, and more. Tests we can perform in-house include CBC (complete blood count), blood chemistry panel, blood glucose, urinalysis (helps us check for urinary tract infections and other issues), and 4DX, which allows us to check for heartworm, Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, and anaplasmosis. We can also perform the T4 to identify thyroid problems. In some instances, we may need to perform more than one test on a pet to diagnose their condition best.
Dog and Cat X-Rays
Just as with human X-rays, pet X-rays allow for an internal examination of the bones and almost any organ in the body, including the heart, lungs, and abdominal organs. They can also be used to evaluate the size, position, and shape of certain organs, which is beneficial in diagnosing liver, kidney, and heart disease. We use state-of-the-art, digital X-ray equipment to produce clearer images using minimal radiation, making it safe even for pregnant pets. These images can then be reviewed and interpreted by a board-certified radiologist by request. An X-ray can reveal a variety of conditions in a pet, including:
- Fractures/broken bones
- Foreign bodies
- Intestinal blockage
- Bladder stones
- Chronic arthritis
- Certain tumors
We also offer OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) X-rays to evaluate hip conformation and detect early signs of hip dysplasia.
Dog and Cat Ultrasound
Ultrasound is another powerful pet diagnostic imaging tool used to evaluate the abdominal organs (liver, kidneys, gallbladder, etc.). Ultrasonography uses ultrasound waves to produce a real-time 2-dimensional image of a certain body area. We work with a board-certified internal medicine specialist, Dr. Elizabeth Shaker DVM, DACVIM to provide this service, along with endoscopy. Unlike radiography, ultrasonography does not use radiation to produce an image. Instead, it uses high-frequency sound waves and “echoes.” Ultrasonography can be used to diagnose and evaluate many common diseases and medical conditions, such as:
- Enlarged abdominal organs
- Tumors
- Abnormal lymph nodes
- Pregnancy
- Abdominal masses
- Abdominal fluid
Just as with any other advanced diagnostic service in human and veterinary medicine, many diagnoses begin with a physical wellness exam. If your pet has been exhibiting any abnormal physical or behavioral changes, or you’d like to learn more about our pet diagnostic services, call us to schedule an appointment. We’ll let you know what, if any, type of diagnostic test is necessary, depending on our findings. Call us at (518) 417-4254 to schedule an appointment.