A complete preventative health care plan includes routine bloodwork which can detect health concerns before symptoms develop. Detecting early changes in bloodwork allows for the doctor to initiate treatment for a condition before the pet becomes sick. Early intervention can significantly slow the progression of a disease or potentially resolve a health problem before it can cause irreversible damage. Appropriate testing is determined based on a pet’s breed, age, and health status.

In addition to routine bloodwork, pets 10 years old and greater should have annual x-rays to evaluate internal organs for changes in shape and size. This allows diagnosis of heart and lung disease and detection of some cancers. Cats 10 years old and greater should have yearly blood pressure evaluations to detect high blood pressure, which can cause blindness and kidney disease. Early detection of these serious conditions may present an opportunity for treatment which might not be possible in advanced disease. Please feel free to call the office and discuss with our doctors any questions that you may have regarding these testing recommendations or specific concerns about your pet.