Ponder Vet Hospital

601 Shaffner St
Ponder, TX 76259

(940)479-2782

www.pondervet.com

Screening Tests and Diagnostics

 

Our pets can't tell us when something doesn't feel right, and often will actively mask any signs of illness until it is advanced. Below is a sample of diagnostic testing we offer and the benefits of each.

 

 

Parasite Screening

 

Heartworm test
An annual heartworm test is necessary for all dogs. Prevention is not 100% effective, dogs that live only indoors can still be bitten by mosquitos and become infected, and heartworm infections are not apparent on physical exams until the condition is advanced and the pet is in heart failure.

 

Fecal Parasite Screen
Your pet will be screened for intestinal parasites at each new pet visit, puppy/kitten visit, annual visit, and when your pet is sick or having diarrhea. Some parasites can also be spread to humans, especially children or those who are immune-compromised, so early detection and treatment are critical to your whole family's health.

 

 

Comprehensive Blood Work

 

Blood Cell Counts
Blood cell counts are necessary prior to surgeries to ensure your pet's safety for the procedure. A pet that is already anemic (not enough red blood cells) may need a blood transfusion first. A high white blood cell count can indicate infection and the need for antibiotics as part of your pet's treatment plan.

 

Chemistry (Organ function test)
Older pets are at a higher risk of organ dysfunction, such as liver or kidney disease. Since these organs are responsible for processing anesthetic medications, it is critical that everything be in good working order before your doctor can safely do a surgery or dental cleaning for your pet.

 

 

Urine Screen

 

Urinalysis Dip-Stick
Screens for abnormalities in the urine that may indicate infection, kidney disease, or diabetes (among others) A single sample and test evaluates multiple parameters of your pet's health.

 

Urine Specific Gravity

 More info coming soon

 

Topic

 More info coming soon

 

Use the age chart below to find your pets age in "people" years and the screening testing recommended for each stage of his or her life.

We believe the following tests give us the best chance of helping your pet's live longer, healthier lives.

These are approximations and may vary by gender, species and breed.

Blue/
Lilac 

Every 12 months - Baseline Blood Profile (a small blood test checking internal organ health)

Every 6 months - Urine Specific Gravity ( a urine test to check how well the kidneys concentrate urine - there is no charge for this test) 

Green

Every 12 months - Annual Health Profile (a blood test checking red and white blood cell counts and a more comprehensive internal organ screen)

Every 6 months - Urine Specific Gravity  

Yellow

Every 12 months - Senior Health Profile (comprehensive internal organ screen including Thyroid testing, electrolytes and red and white cell counts and urine specific gravity)

Every 6 months - Urine Specific Gravity +/- Urine Dipstick  

Red

Every 6 months - Golden Years Health Profile (comprehensive internal organ screen including Thyroid testing, electrolytes and red and white cell counts) 

 

age chart