El blood tests in dogs is an essential procedure to assess your health status and prevent potential problems before they become serious. Although many diseases can go unnoticed due to the lack of obvious symptoms, a regular analysis can provide a clear view of the internal wellness of your pet, helping to detect abnormalities early and allowing them to receive the treatment they need.
Why is it crucial to do regular blood tests on dogs?
As in humans, blood tests in dogs have various purposes. These include: early detection of diseases, monitoring their general health status and diagnosing non-specific symptoms. In addition, these tests are crucial before surgical procedures to rule out risks related to anesthesia.
Older dogs, in particular, are more prone to developing diseases such as renal insufficiency, diabetes or liver problems. Annual blood tests from the age of seven or eight are practically mandatory to ensure a healthy life and detect age-related conditions.
What is analyzed in a canine blood test?
A blood test in dogs consists of evaluating different parameters that provide valuable information about the state of their internal organs and functions. Here we explain the main components:
- Blood count: This test measures blood cells: red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It helps detect anemia, infections, and problems related to the coagulation.
- Blood biochemistry: Includes the evaluation of substances such as u, creatinine, glucose and liver enzymes (ALT, AST). These parameters are essential for assessing the function of organs such as the kidneys, liver and pancreas.
- Electrolyte levels: Testing sodium, potassium, and calcium can indicate dehydration, kidney problems, or metabolic imbalances.
- Hormones: A thyroid profile can detect metabolic diseases such as hypothyroidism.
Thanks to these examinations, veterinarians can establish early diagnosis and offer specific treatments, saving lives and improving the dog's quality of life.
How is a blood test performed on dogs?
The procedure is quick, painless and safe. Here's how it's done:
- Previous preparation: It is recommended that the dog come in fasting (between 10 and 12 hours without food) to avoid alterations in the results, especially in parameters such as glucose.
- Blood extraction: It is usually taken from the cephalic vein, located in the front leg, although the jugular vein in the neck can also be used. The area is cleaned and sterilized before the procedure.
- Sending to the laboratory: Once drawn, blood is stored in tubes specific to the type of analysis. Clinics can process the samples immediately or send them to external laboratories.
In most cases, results are available within 24 hours, allowing you to act quickly. speed If necessary.
What diseases can be detected with a blood test?
A blood test provides a comprehensive overview that can help diagnose a variety of pathologies. Some of the most common diseases that can be detected are:
- Renal insufficiency: High levels of urea and creatinine indicate poor kidney function.
- Liver problems: Elevated ALT and AST enzymes are indicative of liver damage.
- Diabetes: High blood glucose levels can confirm this metabolic disease.
- Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin suggests deficiency in oxygen transport.
In addition, they can be identified electrolyte imbalances and immune system disorders, such as infections or allergies. Some types of tumors without visible symptoms are also detectable through abnormalities in laboratory values.
The importance of an annual check-up
Prevention is key when it comes to the health of our pets. Performing an annual blood test is an investment in their long-term well-being, as it allows us to identify problems before they fully develop. For senior dogs or breeds with a genetic predisposition to diseases, this practice becomes even more essential.
Always remember to go to a trusted veterinarian to ensure proper care for your dog. Their experience and access to advanced diagnostic tools will make a difference in your dog's quality of life.
Caring for our dogs involves much more than feeding them and taking them for walks; we also need to take care of their internal health regularly and responsibly.