A thorough physical exam is performed the day of surgery. Unfortunately, many disease processes can occur that don't alter internal organ size and therefore, would not be detected by a routine physical exam alone. Many chronic or subtle disease processes cause only vague or intermittent signs and symptoms such as :

1. Changes in activity levels, either decreased or increased.
2. Inability to exercise normally
3. Increased water consumption or changes in urination habits
4. Behavioral or mental changes
5. Changes in sleep or eating habits
6. Chronic vomiting or diarrhea
7. Weight loss or gain

Because an anesthetic procedure may worsen an existing disease process, we require a COMPLETE LAB PROFILE for any animal over 8 years of age. This consists of a full chemistry profile, a complete blood count and a urinalysis.

If you pet is less than 8 years of age and is displaying none of the above signs, then we recommend a screening profile. This consists of a complete blood count and screening tests for liver and kidney disease. Should any of these show abnormal results, we would contact you to proceed with the full lab work up.

Each of the lab test checks different aspects of a pet's health. For example:

CBC (Complete Blood Count) - This test for anemia is a good screening test for any chronic disease process, inflammation or infection.

Full Chemistry Profile - This consists of 16 tests that check for many types of liver and kidney problems, certain hormonal problems (including diabetes), and protein or electrolyte imbalances (calcium, sodium, potassium).

Urinalysis - This is a good test for liver, kidney and certain hormonal abnormalities.

Screening Chemistries - This consists of 5 tests and is only a screen for certain liver and kidney abnormalities. The kidney and liver are the two main organ systems that are responsible for metabolizing anesthetics. It is used only as an aid to determine anesthetic risk, and not as a diagnostic tool in a sick or geriatric animal.

Lexington Boulevard Animal Hospital 2627 Cordes Drive Sugar Land, Texas 77479 24-Hour Emergency Care for Our Clients Phone:(281) 980-3737 Fax: (281) 265-5584 Email:info@lexingtonpethospital.com