Diagnostic testing allows our veterinarians to look beyond the physical exam when your pet shows symptoms of illness. These tests help us identify underlying causes that may not be immediately apparent otherwise, leading to an accurate diagnosis and a more effective treatment plan. Early diagnosis is key to a longer, healthier life for your pet.
Diagnostics
Diagnostics
We Deliver The Care You Need
Your pets are an important part of your family, and you love seeing them happy and energetic. That’s why regular veterinary exams are key. Undiagnosed diseases in pets can cause severe and even fatal health problems, but if the problem is identified early, your pet can still live a healthy, long life. Blue Lake Animal Hospital provides various diagnostic services to identify and treat diseases in your pets. We monitor the progression of diseases and your pet’s response to treatment. We quickly diagnose your pet using the latest veterinary technology to deliver the care they need.
FAQs About Veterinary Diagnostics in Michigan
How do you decide which diagnostic tests my pet needs?
Our experienced veterinarians recommend specific tests based on your pet’s symptoms and physical exam findings, as well as their age and breed. We will always discuss our recommendations with you and explain what each test can tell us about your pet’s health.
Are diagnostic tests safe for my pet?
Yes. The vast majority of our diagnostic tests, like blood draws and X-rays, are minimally invasive and very safe. For any procedure that might require sedation, such as a CT scan, we take every precaution to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.
Does my pet need to fast before a blood test?
In many cases, yes. Fasting before a blood test can ensure the most accurate results, as food can affect certain values of blood components. We will provide you with specific instructions before your pet’s appointment.
How do you monitor my pet’s response to treatment?
Follow-up diagnostic testing is often used to monitor how well your pet is responding to treatment. For example, follow-up blood work can show if a medication is working effectively or if an infection has cleared.
Our Diagnostic Services
Treating a pet’s health problems begins by identifying its root cause. We aim to deliver comprehensive veterinary services you can rely on time and time again. No matter what your pet needs, expect outstanding care provided by our talented team. Our veterinary diagnostic services include:
- Electrocardiograms (ECG): Our veterinarians are experienced in cardiology for pets and perform ECGs to detect issues related to the heart. Using special technology, we’ll record the electrical output of your pet’s heartbeats. The results indicate a healthy heart or one that is at risk for heart disease and other problems.
- Blood Tests: Blood work is used to check for certain diseases. We take blood samples with minimal discomfort for your pet. You can expect a fast turnaround and accurate results from our lab.
- Microscopic Examinations: We may need a closer look at a problem, which may warrant microscopic inspection. Some diseases must be diagnosed through a thorough examination. For instance, we might examine a tissue sample under a microscope to look for abnormalities in cellular composition or growth.
- Imaging: X-rays and ultrasounds let us take a better look at your pet’s internal health.
- Urinalysis: A urine sample can reveal the presence of systemic issues, such as diabetes and infections.
Some of our other diagnostic tests include complete blood count (CBC), stool sample analysis, and more. Each of these tests provides unique insight into the situation, so depending on your pet’s symptoms, we may recommend a single test or a combination.
What to Expect
During your appointment, our technicians will do routine tests on your pet, such as measuring its weight and blood pressure. Depending on your pet’s symptoms, we’ll recommend different testing. We want you to fully understand what’s wrong with your pet, so we take the time to explain the testing and what the results mean. We’ll outline the possible treatments and solutions as well so you can confidently make a decision that’ll benefit your pet.
If we’ve found a potential problem, our veterinarians will proceed to treatment. We’ll discuss treatment options so you know what to anticipate as your pet receives the care they need. Sometimes, we’ll need to perform further testing to uncover the issue.
Call Us to Schedule a Checkup
blue lake
animal hospital
If your pet has concerning symptoms, it’s time for a checkup. Our team at Blue Lake Animal Hospital will do a thorough examination and order diagnostic testing if necessary. Your pet’s well-being is important to our veterinarians, so we do everything we can to deliver the quality treatments and comfort you need during such a stressful time. Contact us to plan your visit.
What We Do
Caledonia Veterinary Services
Preventive Medicine
Prevention is key to supporting your pet’s ongoing health. We devise an individualized strategy to keep your pet healthy and happy.
Surgical Services
We perform standard and specialized surgeries to address your pet’s health concerns, including spays, tumor removal, orthopedic surgeries, and more.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are an important part of preventing communicable diseases. Keep your pet up-to-date on their vaccinations right at our office.
Dental Care
Dental health is essential to your pet’s overall wellness. Our dental services cover all of your pet’s oral health needs, from tooth extraction to cleaning.
Special Care for Pocket Pets
We understand the unique needs of pocket pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits. Our team has the
expertise to provide the best care for these small companions, ensuring their health and happiness.
Reviews
Happy Customers
I cannot say enough good things about this veterinary clinic! They were able to squeeze my cat in on very short notice when he suddenly started having urinary accidents, and I was so stressed trying to figure out what was...
Kristen G.
Love this place for our American Bully. Dr. Heather and her team were absolutely amazing. We drove almost two hours to take our girl to see them numerous times. They performed reverse progesterone testing, and they also did the C-section...
A. W.
Amazing vets and very friendly staff. I have been bringing my animals here for years and wouldn't go anywhere else.
S. B.
Such an amazing place. I brought one of my pet rats here around a few years ago for an external tumor removal. They did such a great job and were very informative and caring. Fast forward to now and I...
B. C.
My breeder suggested Dr. Will and Dr. Heather. They have been amazing! I knew Louie was in great hands once I met them❤️
J. R.
I have absolutely enjoyed bringing my fur baby here. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and wait times to get in are not ridiculous.
R. V.
We’re empty nesters and our dogs have filled the void, however I have found that my new children needed a higher level of care. This place cares, and very helpful when “Mom and I” are freaking out. We have been...
J. F.
Dr. Macey and staff are always kind and knowledgeable.
N. R.
We have been with Blue Lake Animal Hospital for years. Great, knowledgeable, and compassionate veterinarians whose priority is the welfare of your pet. Their staff is fantastic as well, from reception to assistants.
S. H.
Absolutely wonderful staff. Very caring and always try to fit us in when needed. Dr. Heather is so knowledgeable, kind and helpful. We are incredibly thankful their pricing is reasonable which makes regular maintenance much easier, especially right now.
K. G.
Get In Touch
Contact us
Mon – Fri: 8 am – 5:30 pm
Sat & Sun: Closed
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