Equipment: Laboratory

Biochemistry & haematology machines

Biochemistry analyzers are used to measure the levels of enzymes and other substances in the blood stream. These results can then be used to assess liver and kidney function and other processes.

Haematology is the analysis of the type and number of blood cells in the blood stream. The red cells carry oxygen around the body. A shortage of red cells occurs in anemia. One of the main functions of the white cells is to fight against infection. There are various types of white cells and the nature and duration of the infection can lead to an increase in specific types of white cells. Analysis of the hematology results can help the vets in diagnosis.

Pre-surgery blood screening

We recommend that a pre-surgery blood sample is taken prior to anaesthesia. This can give us important information about the suitability of a patient for anaesthesia and if certain drugs are best avoided. If abnormalities are found then usually further tests are necessary to investigate the problem.

Microscope

A microscope has a number of uses within the laboratory from looking at skin scrapes to help diagnose dermatology problems; to looking for worms in faecal samples; to examining urine samples for crystals; examining blood and examining cells from tissue samples.

Urine Testing

Dip Sticks
Urine “Dip Sticks” are used to test urine for a number of substances, Sugar and possibly ketones in the urine can help diagnose diabetes mellitus; protein in the urine can represent kidney disease or cystitis; blood in the urine can be caused by trauma to the bladder or kidney or cystitis.

Specific Gravity
This is the measure of urine’s concentration. Kidneys loose their ability to concentrate urine due to disease or under the influence of hormones. Measurement of S.G. is useful when trying to diagnose the exact cause of a pet starting to drink and urinate more.

Sediment Examination
Spinning the urine sample in a centrifuge produces a sediment which can then be examined under the microscope. The nature of the sediment can help diagnose the cause of cystitis – perhaps revealing crystals in the urine indicating bladder stones.

Please click on the links below to learn more about our equipment:

Surgery/Anaesthesia
Laboratory
Investigation of illness and problems
Dental
Other facilities