Laboratory Services

Laboratory Services

At Struggletown Veterinary Hospital, we have a comprehensive in-house laboratory that allows us to perform a wide range of diagnostic tests quickly and accurately.

We have recently made a significant investment in all-new laboratory equipment, expanding the range of testing we can perform within the hospital. For many tests, results are available within minutes or during the same visit, allowing our veterinarians to diagnose problems and begin appropriate treatment sooner.

What can we test?

Our in-house laboratory allows us to perform:

• Biochemistry testing to assess kidney, liver and other organ function
• Complete blood counts (CBCs) to evaluate red and white blood cells and platelets
• Urinalysis, including urine chemistry and sediment examination
• Blood smear examination and digital cytology
• Faecal testing and microscopy
• Specialised tests for selected conditions

Laboratory testing may be recommended when your pet is unwell, before an anaesthetic or procedure, to monitor an ongoing condition, or as part of preventative health screening — particularly as pets get older.

The Vcheck V200 allows us to perform a growing range of specialised tests in-house, including cPL and fPL for pancreatic disease, CardioPet proBNP for heart disease assessment, cortisol, T4 thyroid testing, CRP and SAA for systemic inflammation, and SDMA to assist with assessment of kidney function.

Faster results, faster decisions

Having this technology within the hospital means we can often collect a sample, perform the test and review the results while your pet is still with us.
This can help us:

• Reach a diagnosis sooner
• Start appropriate treatment more quickly
• Decide whether further investigation or hospitalisation is required
• Monitor your pet’s response to treatment

Your veterinarian will explain which tests are recommended, why they are useful and what the results mean for your pet.

External laboratory testing

Some highly specialised tests still need to be sent to an external veterinary laboratory or reviewed by a veterinary pathologist.

When this is required, we will discuss it with you. Many external laboratory results are available within 24–72 hours, although more specialised tests may take longer.

By combining our advanced in-house laboratory with access to specialist external testing when required, we can choose the most appropriate diagnostic testing for each individual patient.