Skip to content Understanding what is happening inside your pet’s body requires the right tools and the experience to interpret what they reveal. Lougheed Animal Hospital in Mission, BC, offers a comprehensive range of in-house and referred diagnostic services for dogs and cats. From routine bloodwork to advanced imaging, our diagnostic services help us get answers efficiently and support the best possible care for your pet. Call (604) 826-7066 to schedule a diagnostic appointment.
A complete blood count and biochemistry panel are among the most informative tests in veterinary medicine. A CBC evaluates the red and white blood cells and platelets, revealing signs of infection, inflammation, anemia, or immune system concerns. A biochemistry panel assesses organ function, including the kidneys, liver, and pancreas, along with electrolytes and blood glucose. These panels are used for wellness screening in healthy pets, pre-anesthetic assessment, and monitoring of known health conditions. In-house bloodwork provides results quickly so that clinical decisions can be made at the same appointment when needed.
Digital radiography provides fast, high-quality images of your pet’s bones, chest cavity, and abdominal organs. X-rays help identify fractures, foreign bodies, changes in organ size, chest abnormalities such as fluid or masses, and bone or joint conditions. Our digital X-ray system produces immediate images, allowing our veterinarians to review and discuss findings with you during the same visit. X-rays are frequently used in urgent assessments as well as in planned evaluations for pets with chronic health conditions.
Ultrasound provides real-time imaging of the soft tissues and internal organs, complementing what X-rays can reveal. It is particularly useful for assessing the liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, gastrointestinal tract, reproductive organs, and lymph nodes. Ultrasound allows us to visualize organ texture, fluid accumulation, and masses in a way that X-rays cannot. For advanced cardiac ultrasound, echocardiography is performed by a visiting specialist at our clinic. Mobile abdominal ultrasound is also available through visiting specialists, providing detailed assessment on-site.
Urinalysis provides important information about kidney function, hydration status, and the health of the urinary tract. We evaluate urine for glucose, protein, concentration, pH, crystals, cells, and bacterial presence. Urinalysis is a standard component of wellness bloodwork for senior pets and is also used to assess pets showing signs of increased urination, accidents in the house, or suspected urinary tract concerns. When bacterial growth is suspected, a urine culture may be recommended alongside the standard urinalysis.
Snap tests are rapid in-clinic tests that provide results within minutes for specific infections and conditions. At Lougheed Animal Hospital, we offer snap testing for canine parvovirus, feline leukemia virus, feline immunodeficiency virus, and pancreatitis in dogs and cats. These tests are particularly useful in urgent situations where a quick result can meaningfully guide next steps. Positive snap test results may be followed by additional confirmatory testing depending on the clinical situation.
Biopsies and fine needle aspiration cytology allow our team to examine cells or tissue from a lump, mass, or abnormal area. Fine needle aspiration is a minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a small needle into the target area to collect a sample for cytological review. Surgical biopsy provides a larger tissue sample for histopathology, giving the most definitive assessment of a mass. Results help differentiate between cysts, benign masses, inflammation, and concerning tissue types, and guide recommendations for further care or surgical removal. Biopsies can also be arranged as same-day assessments through our urgent care service when clinically appropriate.
Lougheed Animal Hospital also offers: titer testing to measure antibody levels as an alternative to routine revaccination; skin scraping and ear cytology for skin and ear conditions; fecal testing and parasitology for internal parasite assessment; histopathology for tissue analysis; geriatric bloodwork panels including thyroid evaluation; clotting factor assessment for bleeding concerns; progesterone testing for breeding planning; tonometry for eye pressure evaluation; fungal culture (Fungassay) for ringworm and dermatophyte identification; endocrinology testing for hormonal conditions; and on-site echocardiography and abdominal ultrasound through visiting specialists.
Accurate answers start with the right tests. Call Lougheed Animal Hospital at (604) 826-7066 or book online to schedule a diagnostic appointment for your dog or cat in Mission, BC.
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For after-hours emergencies, contact Canada West Veterinary Specialists — 604-473-4882.
