In-House Diagnostic Testing for Faster Answers
When your pet is not acting like themselves, diagnostic testing can provide valuable information to help determine what may be causing the problem. At Hudson Vets Tarrytown, we perform most routine diagnostic testing in-house, and results for many tests may be available during the same visit.
Having timely access to diagnostic information can help our veterinary team make informed decisions about treatment, monitoring, and follow-up care based on your pet’s individual needs. It can also help us identify changes that may not be apparent from a physical examination alone, giving us a more complete picture of your pet’s health. By combining diagnostic findings with your pet’s history and symptoms, we can develop a clearer understanding of the concern and determine the most appropriate next steps.
Our In-House Lab
Our in-house laboratory allows us to perform a range of routine diagnostic tests without sending every sample to an outside laboratory:
- Bloodwork analyzers that evaluate organ function, blood cell counts, and other indicators of your pet’s health
- A centrifuge used to separate blood components for diagnostic evaluation
- A high-powered microscope for examining samples for parasites, infections, and abnormal cells
- Urinalysis equipment that can help identify urinary abnormalities and provide information about kidney and urinary tract health
Having diagnostic equipment on-site can help streamline the evaluation process and allow our team to make care decisions without relying on outside laboratory results for every routine test.
Microscopic Testing for Parasites
Pets can be exposed to a variety of external and intestinal parasites, and some infections may cause symptoms that overlap with other health conditions. Our veterinary team can examine appropriate samples under the microscope to look for concerns such as ear mites, mange, and intestinal parasites. When ringworm or another fungal infection is suspected, additional testing may be recommended.
Identifying the underlying cause of your pet’s symptoms can help us select an appropriate treatment rather than relying on symptoms alone.
Cytology for Skin, Ears and Masses
Cytology involves examining cells from a small sample under a microscope and can provide useful information about skin, ear, and other health concerns. Pets with allergies may develop recurring skin or ear infections, and cytology can help determine whether bacteria, yeast, or other organisms may be contributing to the problem.
Cytology can also be useful when a new lump or mass is discovered. Examining cells from the area can provide additional information about the mass and help determine whether further diagnostic testing, monitoring, or treatment may be appropriate.
When Diagnostic Testing Is Recommended?
Diagnostic testing may be recommended when your pet’s symptoms are unclear, persistent, or suggest an underlying health concern. Testing can help our team gather more information and determine whether further treatment or monitoring is needed.
Your pet may benefit from diagnostic testing when they experience:
- Unexplained changes in appetite or thirst: Significant increases or decreases may sometimes indicate an underlying health issue that needs further evaluation.
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea: Recurring or prolonged digestive symptoms may require testing to help identify the possible cause.
- Unusual tiredness or behavior changes: A noticeable decrease in energy or a change in normal behavior can sometimes signal a health concern.
- Unexplained weight changes: Unexpected weight loss or gain may warrant diagnostic evaluation, especially when there are no obvious changes in diet or activity.
- Lumps, swelling, or other physical changes: Testing may provide additional information when a new mass or unusual change is found during an examination.
- Abnormal findings during an exam: Diagnostic testing may be recommended when a physical examination reveals something that requires a closer look.
Get Clearer Answers for Your Pet
When something changes with your pet’s health, timely diagnostic testing can provide valuable information without unnecessary delays. At Hudson Vets , we use diagnostic results alongside your pet’s examination and health history to help guide treatment, monitoring, and follow-up care. For pets with ongoing health concerns, diagnostic testing can also provide useful insight into how they are responding to treatment over time. If your pet is experiencing an unexplained change or health concern, our team is here to help you determine the next appropriate step.
