Testing & Diagnostics
When your pet isn’t feeling their best—or when something just seems “off”—you want answers, fast. At Fair Oaks Pet Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic testing to uncover health concerns quickly. Whether your pet needs a blood test, an X-ray, or an ultrasound, our goal is to detect issues early, so we can create an effective treatment plan right away.
In-House & Reference Lab Bloodwork
We use blood tests to check your pet’s health, diagnose illness, and monitor ongoing conditions. For urgent issues, our in-house lab provides fast results—often the same day. For more comprehensive panels, we send samples to a trusted reference lab. These tests check for a wider range of conditions and can be reviewed by veterinary specialists when needed. We’ll explain the results clearly so you understand what they mean and what comes next.
Digital X-Rays
X-rays give us an overall view of your pet’s bones, joints, and internal organs. Digital imaging helps us diagnose injuries, detect masses, evaluate heart and lung function, and more—all with minimal stress for your pet. Digital radiography is fast, non-invasive, and often performed during a single visit.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound provides a detailed view of soft tissues like the liver, kidneys, bladder, and heart. It’s especially useful for diagnosing conditions that are difficult to see on X-rays, such as subtle changes to internal organs, small foreign materials, or gastrointestinal problems. Ultrasound is a powerful tool to investigate hidden or elusive health problems.
Cytology
If your pet has a lump, skin issue, or ear infection, cytology allows us to tailor our treatment to fit your pet’s specific needs. By evaluating samples under a microscope, we can often determine whether a lump is benign or needs further testing, and we can quickly identify bacteria, yeast, or abnormal cells in infections.
Clear Answers for Better Care
We understand how overwhelming lab results can be. That’s why we take the time to walk you through every test result and discuss what comes next. Thoughtful diagnostics paired with clear communication is how we help you make confident, informed decisions for your pet.
Get Answers About Your Pet’s Health
If something seems off with your pet, our team can help you understand what’s happening and what comes next. Schedule a visit at Fair Oaks Pet Hospital today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What diagnostic services does Fair Oaks Pet Hospital provide?
The hospital offers comprehensive diagnostics including bloodwork, urinalysis, fecal testing, digital X-rays, ultrasound, and cytology. These tools help identify health problems early and guide precise treatment.
Why is bloodwork important for pets?
Blood tests measure organ function, red and white blood cell counts, and electrolyte balance. They help detect infections, anemia, diabetes, thyroid disease, kidney failure, and liver issues before symptoms become severe.
When should my pet have bloodwork done?
Bloodwork is recommended during annual wellness exams, before surgery, for senior pets every six months, and whenever unexplained symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, or lethargy occur.
What can X-rays reveal about my pet’s health?
Digital X-rays allow veterinarians to evaluate bones, joints, lungs, heart size, and abdominal organs. They are essential for diagnosing fractures, arthritis, tumors, and internal injuries.
How is ultrasound used in veterinary medicine?
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of soft tissues like the heart, liver, kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs. It helps diagnose tumors, organ disease, fluid buildup, and pregnancy without invasive procedures.
What is cytology and why is it performed?
Cytology involves examining cells collected from lumps, ear swabs, skin scrapings, or fluids under a microscope. It helps diagnose infections, allergies, parasites, and cancerous changes.
Does my pet need diagnostics before surgery?
Yes. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork and sometimes imaging are recommended to ensure organ function is normal and anesthesia is safe. Diagnostics reduce surgical risks and allow for tailored anesthetic protocols.
Are diagnostic tests painful for pets?
Most diagnostic tests are quick and minimally invasive. Blood draws, X-rays, and ultrasounds are generally well tolerated. Sedation may be used for anxious pets or when precise imaging is required.
How long does it take to receive test results?
Basic bloodwork and urinalysis often provide same-day results. More advanced tests such as cultures or specialized panels may take a few days. Your veterinarian will explain results promptly and recommend next steps.
How much do veterinary diagnostic tests cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of test. Common screenings such as heartworm or feline viral testing are affordable, while advanced diagnostics like ultrasound or specialized blood panels may cost more. Clients receive clear estimates before procedures.
