In addition to a regular physical examination, laboratory testing can play an important role in assessing your pet’s health and identifying problems not detectable on physical exam. Regular testing also allows us to establish what is “normal” for your pet so that future testing can be compared to these values. Lab tests can detect early disease, aid in diagnosis of sick pets, and help monitor a pet’s progress during treatment. Blood work prior to surgery can identify a pet’s anesthetic risk and help determine the safest anesthesia.

X-ray
OPAH is proud to be one of the few veterinary clinics in the Nashville area to offer digital x-ray (radiographs). This new technology allows us to do a tremendous job in producing quality x-rays in a fraction of the time. This means that your pet is exposed to less radiation (as well as our staff) and the results are obtained faster. In addition we can show you the x- ray results instantly on a computer monitor. Finally, if referral of your pets x-rays to a veterinary radiologist is required, the results can be quickly e-mailed, leading to a quicker diagnosis and treatment.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A CBC measures the number, type and health of the cells present in the bloodstream including red blood cells (RBC) that carry oxygen, white blood cells (WBC) that help fight infection and platelets which are an important factor in blood clotting. Some common problems diagnosed with a CBC are infection, anemia, dehydration and some forms of cancer.

Chemistry Panel
The chemistry panel is a series of tests that measures levels in the fluid portion of blood. This important test helps determine disease of the liver, pancreas, kidney, adrenal glands, immune system, and gastrointestinal tract.

Thyroid Function Tests
This test evaluates the function of the thyroid gland. Low thyroid function (Hypothyroidism) is common in dogs. High thyroid function (Hyperthyroidism) is common in cats. These tests are also used to monitor the response to treatment for these diseases.

Urinalysis
This test evaluates the health and function of the urinary system and detects glucose, blood, bacteria, crystals and protein in the urine. It is useful in diagnosing infection, kidney disease, diabetes and dehydration.