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Vet’s Corner

The Importance of Routine Blood and Urine Testing in Dogs

Keeping our dogs healthy involves more than just feeding them well and giving
them exercise. Routine blood and urine testing plays a vital role in detecting
early signs of illness, monitoring existing conditions, and ensuring overall
well-being. These tests provide valuable insights into a dog’s internal health,
often before visible symptoms appear.

Why Are Blood and Urine Tests Important?

Dogs, like humans, can develop health issues that may not be immediately
obvious. Routine blood and urine testing can:
• Detect diseases early, including kidney disease, diabetes, and infections.
• Establish a baseline of normal values for your dog’s health.
• Monitor chronic conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, or diabetes.
• Ensure safe anesthesia before surgery or dental procedures.
• Check the effects of long-term medications on organ function.

Routine Blood Tests for Dogs

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A CBC evaluates:
• Red blood cells (RBCs): Detects anemia and oxygen-carrying capacity.
• White blood cells (WBCs): Indicates infection, inflammation, or immune
disorders.
• Platelets: Assesses blood clotting ability.

2. Blood Chemistry Panel

This test measures:
• Kidney function: High levels of creatinine and BUN (blood urea nitrogen) can
signal kidney disease.
• Liver function: Abnormal liver enzymes may
indicate liver disease or infections.
• Blood sugar levels: Helps detect diabetes.
• Electrolytes: Imbalances can indicate
dehydration, kidney disease, or hormonal
disorders.

3. Thyroid Function Test

Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism. Low levels
can indicate hypothyroidism, a common issue in
dogs, leading to weight gain, lethargy, and skin
problems.
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