Whitney Veterinary Hospital | Senior Blood Panel

What Wellness Testing Means

All older dogs need a blood test! Because pets age more quickly than people, and because they really cannot tell us when they don't feel top notch, we recommend - in addition to an annual examination - Wellness Blood Screening for pets over 7 years of age. This blood work can help us detect hidden problems before your pet becomes ill. Early detection can help us reverse, slow, or cure problems before your pet feels poorly.

We have 2 levels of screens designed to yield the most beneficial results based on the age of your pet. The following is a description of the two Wellness Screens we recommend.

For pets ages 7 to 10 years of age: The Adult Wellness Screen includes:

Tests					Detects
PCV, TP					Anemia, protein levels
BUN, Cr, Phosphorus					Kidney function
ALT, ALP, AST, GGT, ALB, Bili					Liver function
Glucose					Diabetes
Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca++					Electrolytes
Amylase, Lipase, Cholesterol					Intestinal function
T4					Thyroid function in cats

As the pets approach 10 years of age, more organ problems can develop and cancer can be a bigger risk. Therefore, we advise that pets over 10 years of age have a Senior Wellness Screening.

The Senior Wellness Screen includes:

Tests					Detects
Adult Wellness Screen					See above
CBC					White blood cell counts for infections and some types of cancer
Urinalysis					Infection, crystals, kidney function, and bladder cancer

With a thorough physical exam and some laboratory testing, we can help to assure you that your pet is in good health. If problems are detected, they can be addressed early to help keep your pet healthy and with the best possible quality of life.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 309-685-4707 or 309-685-4715.