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Diagnostic Services

At Blue Ridge Animal Clinic, we believe in early detection of disease so that we can begin treatment early, when treatment is the most effective. Our diagnostic equipment includes in-hospital digital x-ray and digital dental x-ray, in-hospital laboratory, and ultrasound equipment. We also have access to outside reference laboratories to provide any specialized testing your pet may require. We utilize advanced technology to help diagnose your pet’s medical issues, including:

• In house laboratory staffed by skilled, trained veterinary technicians providing:
• Complete blood analysis by our state of the art blood analyzer
• Fecal analysis for parasites by flotation
• Urinalysis, including analysis for protein using SSA check
• Screening tests for Canine Parvovirus, and Feline Leukemia and FIV viruses
• Cytology examination of ear, skin, urine and blood specimen
• Fungal cultures for possible ringworm
• Digital Radiology (x-rays)
• Useful to assess bone and joint abnormalities and injuries
• Detects the presence of foreign material inside the body
• Used to screen for abnormalities in the heart, lungs, and urinary and digestive organs
• Used to screen for cancer
• Typically does not require any form of sedation
• Ultrasound
• Allows our veterinarians to look at the organs of the abdomen or chest such as the liver, kidneys, heart or spleen from as many different angles as needed
• Painless, non-invasive and safe
• Performed by an ultrasound specialist with state of the art equipment in our hospital, providing convenience, expertise and immediate results. Interpretation of any abnormalities found is done by both the ultrasound specialist and our veterinarians for the most accurate diagnosis for your pet
• Typically does not require any form of sedation
• Allows to safely obtain tissue samples by ultrasound guided needle aspirates or biopsy
• ECG and blood pressure monitoring
• Helps detect hypertension, and to evaluate and stabilize critically ill pets
• Provides a baseline reading during comprehensive physical exams for older or sick pets
• Also used during surgical procedures to assess a pet's condition while under anesthesia