Published: November 14, 2007 05:38 pm         

Wellness evaluations offer a number of tests to determine health of your pet

By Dr. Ted Hankes

Special to The North Jefferson News



Should Your Pet Receive A Wellness Evaluation?

A wellness screen is a set of tests that are conducted specifically to identify signs of early disease in pets that appear to be healthy. When a veterinarian exams your pet they cannot determine if their organ systems on the inside are functioning properly.

Why should your pet receive periodic wellness screening? Disease can develop earlier and progress at a higher rate than in humans. If a disease or condition can be detected before a pet shows signs of illness, we can implement a therapeutic plan to manage or correct the problem before irreversible damage has occurred.

There are three main categories of wellness testing for your pet, including biochemistry profile, complete blood count (CBC) and urinalysis. Within each category, the veterinarian will determine how extensive the testing should be. In younger pets without obvious health problems, relatively simple screening test are usually sufficient. However, in the geriatric pet, more comprehensive testing is recommended.

Biochemistry profile testing is performed on the noncellular (serum) portion of the blood. This group of tests determines how well the liver, kidneys, and thyroid gland are functioning. They also screen for diabetes and disease of the adrenal gland.

A complete blood count test analyzes the cellular components in the bloodstream. These include red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the tissues, white blood cells, which respond to inflammation and fight infection, and platelets, that help the blood to clot when injury occurs.

A urinalysis is necessary for a complete assessment of the urinary system. It should be performed routinely as part of wellness testing, and is especially important in geriatric pets.

Wellness testing is a simple and effective way of monitoring your pet’s health. Early detection and correction of medical problems help to ensure that your pet will feel well and be healthy and active for as long as possible.

Dr. Hankes is the owner of All Creatures Pet Hospital (Formerly Allen Animal Clinic) in Gardendale. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Hankes or a staff member would be glad to assist you. Please call 631-6210.