Bayview Hill
Animal Hospital
Wellness Profile
This blood profile is recommended for pets six years of age and older. This test provides us with important information concerning the current status of your pet's major organs, such as the kidneys, liver, and pancreas. The test measures blood glucose, electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, chloride and phosphorous levels, as well as the red blood cell count and white blood cell count. Below is an explanation of wellness testing.
Wellness Testing - Because You Care How Your Pet is Feeling
Today's medical technology is helping humans live longer and healthier lives. This same technology is also available for your pet. With a few basic tests, we can learn important information about your pet's health.
The four basic types of tests used in wellness testing
Understanding the Tests
(RBC, WBC, Hgb,Hct, MCV, MCHC, Platelets)
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) detects anemia, infection, and blood clotting problems. This includes assessment of the red blood cells (RBC), which carry oxygen to the body, white blood cells, (WBC), which fight infection; and platelets, which are necessary for blood clotting. Microscopic examination of the blood also shows if there are abnormal cells in circulation.
Biochemistry tests evaluate a variety of internal organs and determine if they are working normally.
Liver (AST, ALT, Alk, Phos., Bilirubin, GGT, Cholesterol, Proteins, Bile Acids)
The health of the liver and gall bladder is assessed with these tests. Decreased liver function, inflammation, tissue damage, and bile blockage can all be detected.
Kidney (BUN, Creatinine, Phosphorous, Potassium, Albumin)
These tests provide information about kidney function. Increases in BUN and Creatinine may indicate kidney disease. Changes in the other tests help to identify the type of problem. Kidney function tests are even more helpful when combined with a urinalysis.
Pancreas (Amylase, Lipase, Glucose, TLI)
Abnormal pancreatic function can be detected using these tests, including pancreatitis, diabetes, and pancreatic insufficiency.
Muscle & Bone (AST, CPR, Calcium, Phosphorous)
AST and CPR are frequently elevated when there is inflammation, trauma, or damage to skeletal muscle. Calcium and Phosphorous levels are indicators of bone health.
Electrolytes (Calcium, Potassium, Sodium Chloride)
These elements form the "electrical" system in the body and help cells communicate with each other, for example, proper electrolyte levels are necessary to muscle contraction including the heart and nerve impulses.
(T4, FT4, TSH, Autoantibodies)
The thyroid gland is like a thermostat that "sets" the metabolic rate of the entire body. Too little thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism) is common in dogs and leads to sluggishness and weight gain. Too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) is frequently seen in older cats and causes hyperactivity and weight loss resulting in stress on the heart and other organs.
Because no single test detects all types of thyroid disease, several tests may be needed to ensure a proper diagnosis.
(Chemical tests, Sediment, Cytology)
Urinalysis provides information about kidney function and the health of the urinary system. It can also identify problems in other organs, and is most useful when combined with serum biochemistry.
Urine is tested for blood, sugar, protein and other components. The pH (acidity) and specific gravity (concentration) are also measured. Examination of urine sediment can detect infection, inflammation, crystals, or abnormal cells.