Pet diagnostic services at Homer Animal Hospital in Vancouver allow us to assess your pet's health quickly and accurately, often within the same appointment. Our in-house laboratory and imaging equipment mean results are available faster, reducing stress for your pet and helping us begin appropriate care without delay. We explain every result in plain language so you understand exactly what we found and what it means for your pet.
A complete blood count (CBC) and biochemistry panel give us a comprehensive view of your pet's internal health. We assess red and white blood cell levels, organ function including liver and kidneys, electrolytes, glucose, and protein levels. These panels are used for wellness screening, pre-anesthetic assessment, monitoring of ongoing conditions, and evaluation of sick patients. Our in-house analyzer provides results during your appointment for most panels.
Digital radiography allows us to evaluate your pet's bones, joints, chest, and abdomen with high-quality images captured in seconds. We use digital X-rays to assess fractures and joint disease, evaluate heart and lung size and shape, check for masses or fluid accumulation, and screen for foreign body ingestion. Images are reviewed immediately and stored digitally for comparison at future visits.
Ultrasound provides real-time imaging of soft tissues and organs without radiation. We use ultrasonography to assess abdominal organs including the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, and gastrointestinal tract, as well as to evaluate reproductive structures. Ultrasound is particularly useful for identifying masses, fluid collections, and early organ changes that are not visible on X-ray. We discuss findings with you during or immediately after the scan.
Urine analysis provides information about kidney function, urinary tract health, hydration, and metabolic conditions. We assess urine concentration, protein, glucose, blood, bacteria, and crystal content. Urinalysis is recommended as part of wellness screening for senior pets, when urinary symptoms are present, and for monitoring pets with known kidney or endocrine conditions.
Rapid snap tests allow us to screen for specific conditions during your appointment. We use snap tests to detect parvovirus in dogs, FeLV and FIV in cats, and pancreatitis in both species. Results are typically available within 10 minutes and guide immediate care decisions. These tests are particularly useful for sick patients where a fast answer changes management.
Skin scraping allows us to examine skin cells and identify parasites, fungal organisms, and bacterial infections under the microscope. Ear cytology involves examining ear discharge to determine whether infection is bacterial or yeast-based, which guides appropriate care. Both tests are performed in-house and provide results during the same appointment.
Senior pets benefit from more comprehensive diagnostic screening that includes thyroid function, clotting factors, progesterone levels for breeding animals, and additional metabolic markers. We offer geriatric panels as part of our senior wellness program and as standalone assessments when indicated. Early identification of age-related changes gives us the most options for supportive management.
Book a diagnostic appointment for your dog or cat at Homer Animal Hospital in Vancouver. Call (604) 416-4114 or book online. We are open Monday to Friday 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with same-day urgent appointments available.
