Mention this offer to claim your pet's free first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

Learn how to prevent Lyme disease in dogs, recognize symptoms early, and protect your pet from tick-borne illness with effective tick prevention.

Lyme Disease in Dogs: Prevention, Symptoms, and Tick Protection

Learn why parasite prevention for dogs and cats is essential year round. Understand how fleas, ticks, intestinal parasites, and heartworms affect pets and how veterinary preventive care protects their health.

Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats | Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Protection

Poison exposure is one of the most common and preventable causes of emergency veterinary visits. This guide outlines the most common sources of pet poisoning, warning signs to watch for, and steps you can take to protect your pet.


Poison Prevention in Pets: What Every Owner Needs to Know

Bad breath is one of the most common signs of dental and oral disease in dogs and cats. While it is often dismissed as normal, persistent odor from the mouth is almost always an indication of an underlying issue.

Bad Breath in Pets: What It Means and When to See the Veterinarian

Understanding how oral bacteria contribute to widespread health complications helps explain why consistent dental care is essential for long term wellness.

How Dental Disease Impacts Heart, Kidney, and Lung Health in Pets

Mon May 12 2025 19:49:47 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

St. Matthews Animal Clinic

about-us-page

our-history-section

our-teams-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care along with friendly, compassionate service.

why-us-section

app-download-page

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

career-page

careers-section

forms-page

form-section

landing-page

contact-us-section

cta-bar

emergency-branches

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

Financial Aid:

Obedience:

Local Dog Parks:

Boarding Kennels In Our Area:

Microchipping:

Doggie Daycare in our Area:

Adoptions:

General Information:

links-and-resources

news-page

our-history-page

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-3

services-page

service-page-section

team-page

teams-page-section

video-page

pixel_google

pixel_facebook

Header Cookie Consent - 671f33c5d8e9f7c6b5f082c9

cookie_settings_1750955345987

<button id="ot-sdk-btn" class="ot-sdk-show-settings">Cookie Settings</button>
 

cookie_list_1750955346272

cookie_microsoft

<p dir="auto">From the playful puppy years to the golden senior moments, dogs, like us, go through various life stages, each with its unique health needs and challenges. As a veterinarian, I tell my clients that we have to look at lab work as a window into the intricate workings of their dog's health, offering insights that can guide preventative care, early detection of diseases, and tailored treatment strategies.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">Whether it is a routine check-up or investigating a puzzling symptom, lab work provides the clarity and direction needed for making informed decisions about your dog's health care. In this blog, we will explore how routine blood panels, chemistry tests, and other diagnostic tools play an important role in your dog’s overall well-being.</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>The Process of Drawing Blood from Dogs</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">First things first, how the heck do we draw blood from your dog?! Although it is every veterinarian’s dream, we know our canines will simply not sit there, make a fist, and breathe slowly.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">But fear not. The entire process is quick, usually taking just a few minutes. Veterinarians and our staff are skilled at performing blood draws with minimal stress and discomfort to your pet. In the hands of an experienced veterinary team, most dogs handle blood draws well, with little to no fuss!</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">The most common sites for drawing blood in dogs are the jugular vein in the neck, the cephalic vein in the front leg, and the saphenous vein in the hind leg. The choice of site depends on the amount of blood needed and the dog's size and temperament. The jugular vein allows for larger volumes of blood to be drawn quickly, which is beneficial for comprehensive testing, while the cephalic and saphenous veins are often used for smaller samples.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">When they are all done, if the sample was taken from a leg, there may be a small bandage (sometimes even in fun colors and designs) on the area to apply pressure a little longer and prevent bleeding and bruising. Typically, these can be taken off once you are at home and your pet is settled. Make sure not to leave this wrap on too long, or it may cause swelling!</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em"></p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>Labwork by Life Stage: Tailored Testing for Optimal Care</strong></h2><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Puppies and Adolescents</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">Navigating the journey of puppyhood into the adolescent stage is an exciting season for both you and your pup. This phase lays the groundwork for a healthy and joyful life ahead. Young dogs require a baseline to understand their normal health parameters. Initial screenings check for congenital diseases, infections, and proper organ development.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">As puppies transition into their adolescent phase, around 6 to 12 months, their bodies undergo significant changes. This period is an optimal time for a follow-up set of lab tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) and a biochemistry panel. These tests monitor organ function, ensuring that your growing dog is metabolizing nutrients correctly and that there are no underlying health issues as they approach adulthood.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Adult Dogs</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">As our puppies blossom into full-fledged adults, their care evolves, reflecting their changing needs. Typically ranging from 1 to 7 years, we ideally like to see adult dogs once a year for an annual veterinary exam. These check-ups should include a comprehensive physical examination and discussions about diet, exercise, and any behavioral changes. It’s during these visits that lab work becomes a valuable tool in our preventative care toolboxes.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">Lab work for adult dogs isn’t just about screening for diseases; it is a preventive measure that supports their quality of life. By identifying subtle changes in their health markers over time, we can make adjustments to their care before minor issues become major concerns.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">Annual exams for adult dogs often include a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and chemistry panel, We will talk more about these in the next section to monitor their overall health and organ function. These tests can reveal hidden diseases not evident from a physical examination alone.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Senior Dogs</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">Transitioning into their senior years, dogs require even more attention and care from their owners and veterinarians alike. Typically considered seniors around the age of 7 (earlier for larger breeds, which age faster), these seasoned companions face an increased risk for various health issues. It is during this stage of life that laboratory work becomes indispensable, helping to support our pups through their golden years.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">Senior dogs significantly benefit from two veterinary visits a year. This bi-annual check-up schedule provides closer monitoring of their health and quicker adjustments to their care plan as needed. Lab work becomes a focal point of these visits, providing critical insights into their changing health needs.</p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Breed-Specific Considerations: Beyond One-Size-Fits-All</strong></h3><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">Certain breeds are predisposed to specific health conditions, necessitating tailored lab work. For example, large breeds may require early screening for hip dysplasia, while breeds like Dobermans might need regular heart monitoring. Understanding genetic predispositions allows for proactive health management.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">No two dogs are identical or even age in the same way. Your veterinarian will tailor your dog's lab work based on their breed, age, medical history, and any symptoms or concerns that you may have noticed, so be sure to keep an open dialogue with your veterinary team. They want your pet healthy as much as you do!</p><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>Decoding Blood Panels and Chemistries:</strong></h2><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Conducting these tests annually can help detect diseases early when they are most treatable.</strong></h3><ul><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Complete Blood Count (CBC): </strong>This test gives us a snapshot of your dog's immune system, indicating infections, anemia, dehydration, and even certain cancers.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Chemistry Panel</strong>: A chemistry panel provides insights into the health of major organs like the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. It can detect early stages of diseases, allowing for timely intervention.</p></li></ul><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em"><strong>This </strong>comprehensive panel<strong> becomes even more important as dogs age, offering early detection for conditions that are common in older pets.</strong></p><h3 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.1"><strong>Specific Tests for Comprehensive Care:</strong></h3><ul><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Heartworm and Tick-Borne Disease Tests:</strong> An essential annual test for all dogs, monitoring for heartworms and tick-borne diseases is imperative.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Thyroid Function Tests:</strong> Thyroid diseases are common in adult dogs, affecting their metabolism, energy levels, and even behavior. A simple blood test can assess thyroid hormone levels, making sure they are within a healthy range.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Urinalysis and Kidney Function Tests:</strong> Senior dogs are at an increased risk for kidney disease and urinary tract issues. Regular urinalysis, coupled with blood work, offers a window into the health of the urinary system, allowing for early intervention.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Glucose Testing for Diabetic Dogs: </strong>Regular glucose monitoring is essential for managing diabetic dogs, helping adjust insulin doses and dietary needs.</p></li><li><p dir="auto"><strong>Diseases Such as Cushing's disease, Addison's disease, and Liver Issues:</strong> Advanced testing can diagnose these conditions, guiding treatment plans to manage symptoms and improve life quality.</p></li></ul><h2 dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.2"><strong>Love Through Labwork</strong></h2><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">An integral part of your dog’s care is the relationship you build with your veterinarian. Open, honest communication about any changes in your dog’s behavior or health can guide the need for laboratory work. Your vet can recommend additional screenings based on your dog’s lifestyle, breed predispositions, and any symptoms they exhibit.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">Remember that the goal of these tests is not just to treat but to prevent and catch issues early. We want your canine companion to enjoy a long, happy, and healthy life by your side. If you have any questions about your dog's health or the recommended lab work for their life stage, do not hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian.</p><p dir="auto" style="line-height: 1.6em">If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly. Don't forget to follow us on social media.</p>

Whether it is a routine check-up or investigating a puzzling symptom, lab work provides the clarity and direction needed for making informed decisions about your dog's health care. In this blog, we will explore how routine blood panels, chemistry tests, and other diagnostic tools play an important role in your dog's overall well-being.

Maximizing Canine Health: The Importance of Laboratory Work Through Your Dog's Life

gtm_67f290d153dc857452f08278

Please fill out the information below to get started.

stmatthewsclinic

Consult Online

Online Store

Pet Portal

Forms

Download App

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

Compassionate and quality care for your pet.

Same-day appointments and walk-ins available.

Served over 10,000 fur babies and their happy families.

This accreditation is important as it exemplifies the standard of veterinary excellence.

<p>To help us provide the best care possible, payment is required at the time of service. We accept cash and all major credit cards, and we are happy to offer a deferred interest payment plan through CareCredit.</p>

CareCredit

Trupanion Pet Insurance

ScratchPay

Mr. Dog Training

Tree Frog Farm Personalized – Dog Training and Agility

Brunswick Maine Dog Park

Great Island Kennel

Pet Sitters of Maine

The Brown Dog Inn

Camp Bow Wow

Falmouth Happy Cats

Home Again

The Blue Dog Daycare

Happy Paws Unleashed

Midcoast Humane

Passion for Pets Rescue Organization

Coastal Maine Great Dane Rescue

VeterinaryPartner.com

The Indoor Pet Initiative

Feline Fix by Five

Traveling Out of the Country with Your Pet

AAHA Pet Health Library

Pet Poison Control

Your pet can't tell you when something's wrong. That's why regular wellness exams are so important. These visits give us the chance to catch health issues early, before they become painful or costly.  

Wellness Exams

Bad breath isn't just annoying - it's often a sign of deeper health issues. Dental disease in pets can lead to oral pain, local or systemic infection, tooth loss, and even heart, liver, or kidney complications. 

Dental Care

Fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms are not just a nuisance, they are dangerous. These tiny pests can cause serious health issues like Lyme disease, heartworm disease, and tapeworms. 

Parasite Prevention

Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect pets from serious, often deadly diseases. Whether you have a rambunctious or a relaxed pet, vaccinations help your pet build strong immunity and avoid preventable illness.

Vaccinations

Comprehensive surgical services, from routine procedures to complex operations, all are performed with expert care.

Pet Surgeries

When your pet isn't acting like themselves, diagnostic testing helps us find the reason. From bloodwork, urine testing, and fecal exams to x-rays, these tests give us a window into what's happening inside, so we can take action before things get worse.

Diagnostic Testing

When pets get sick or injured, you want answers fast. Advanced imaging gives us a deeper look, without invasive procedures.


Sheet title

Maximizing Canine Health: The Importance of Laboratory Work Through Your Dog's Life

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

Why Do Cats Vomit Hairballs and How to Prevent?

How to Remove a Tick from a Dog?

Feline Leukemia: Symptoms and Treatments for Cats

FAQs

Sheet title

Maximizing Canine Health: The Importance of Laboratory Work Through Your Dog's Life

Recent Blogs

Lyme Disease in Dogs: Prevention, Symptoms, and Tick Protection

Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats | Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Protection

Poison Prevention in Pets: What Every Owner Needs to Know

Related Blogs

Why Do Cats Vomit Hairballs and How to Prevent?

How to Remove a Tick from a Dog?

Feline Leukemia: Symptoms and Treatments for Cats

FAQs

What should I do if my pet shows signs of illness?

Do you offer pet dental care services?

What is the best diet for my dog or cat?

What if I have questions about my pet's medications?

How often should I bring my pet to the vet for a check-up?

What are the most common health issues for senior pets?