Why do our pets need surveillance screening?

Firstly, our pets can't speak, they can't tell us if they feel off color or unwell or have any other indicators of internal illness. We should examine them every year (or every 6 months for seniors and those with ongoing health concerns) as well as run routine screening tests to detect underlying disease BEFORE it is clinically apparent. That way, we can address small issues before they become big issues.

Secondly, pets tend to actively mask signs of illness until very late in the course of disease. This stems from survival instincts, such as in a pack or colony situation.

 "Hey there predator, don't eat ME - eat my neighbor!"

This is most obvious with classic prey species, such as birds and rabbits, but can actually be true for all of us. How do you act when you're not feeling your strongest?

Recommended Health Screens

We believe the following tests give us the best chance of helping your pets live longer, healthier lives:

Juveniles & Adults (especially in preparation for general anesthesia)               

 - Baseline Blood Profile (Biochemistry, CBC)

 - Annual Heartworm Test (Prevention is the best medicine but no preventative is 100% effective. And did you know that cats and ferrets can get heartworms too?)

Seniors (cats & dogs from 7 years of age or from 4 years of age for giant breed dogs) 

 - Annual Health Profile (Biochemistry, Comprehensive CBC, total thyroid & Urinalysis)

Any pet on chronic medication or with managed chronic disease

 - Bi-Annual Health Profile (Biochemistry, Comprehensive CBC, Urinalysis +/- total thyroid and any additional     tests specific to the condition under observation)