Accurate answers start with the right testing. At PoCo West Animal Hospital in Port Coquitlam, our pet diagnostics services give our veterinary team the information needed to understand what is happening inside your dog or cat. From in-house bloodwork that produces results within minutes to advanced imaging and specialist echocardiograms, our clinic provides comprehensive testing for pets throughout the Tri-Cities area. Diagnostics are used during routine wellness visits, before surgical procedures, and whenever a health concern needs investigation.
A complete blood count (CBC) and biochemistry panel provide a detailed picture of your pet's organ function, immune status, blood cell counts, and metabolic health. These panels are used at annual wellness visits to establish baseline values, before surgery to assess anesthetic risk, and during illness to identify what system is involved. In-house bloodwork produces results within minutes, allowing us to act on findings during the same appointment. We explain every result in plain language.
Digital radiography produces clear, immediate images of your pet's bones, lungs, heart, and abdominal organs. We use X-rays to evaluate fractures, chest conditions, abdominal masses, bladder stones, and foreign body ingestion. Digital technology provides higher image quality and lower radiation exposure compared to traditional radiography. Images are available for review immediately and can be shared with specialist veterinarians when referral is indicated.
Urine testing provides important information about kidney function, urinary tract health, and systemic conditions including diabetes. We evaluate urine specific gravity, pH, protein, glucose, and the presence of cells or crystals. Urinalysis is included in senior wellness panels and is a first-line test whenever a pet is drinking more than usual, urinating excessively, or showing urinary discomfort. We provide clear, practical follow-up steps based on results.
In-clinic snap tests provide rapid results for specific infections and conditions including parvovirus in dogs, Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in cats, and pancreatitis in both species. These tests are particularly valuable in urgent or time-sensitive situations. Results are available within 10 minutes and guide immediate decision-making about your pet's care.
Skin scrapings allow us to examine skin cells and identify parasites such as mites, which cause conditions including mange. Fungal culture testing helps identify dermatophyte infections such as ringworm. These tests are recommended when a pet has persistent skin concerns that do not respond to initial care, or when a zoonotic infection is suspected. Results guide a targeted management plan.
Titer testing measures the level of antibodies in your pet's blood against specific infections. This allows us to assess whether your pet has adequate immunity from previous vaccination or exposure, guiding informed decisions about vaccine timing. Titer testing is an option for pets with vaccine sensitivities or for owners who prefer to avoid unnecessary vaccination when protective immunity is already confirmed.
When a mass, skin lesion, or organ abnormality requires definitive evaluation, biopsy provides a tissue sample for laboratory analysis. We perform biopsies using the least invasive approach appropriate to the location and characteristics of the tissue. Samples are submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory, and results typically return within 5 to 7 days. Results are reviewed with you in detail, along with next-step recommendations.
Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNA) is a minimally invasive way to sample cells from a lump, bump, or enlarged lymph node. The procedure involves passing a fine needle into the mass to collect a small number of cells for microscopic examination. Most pets tolerate this without sedation. FNA provides a useful first-step evaluation of surface masses and helps determine whether surgical removal or further assessment is recommended.
We also offer ear cytology for recurring ear conditions, fecal testing and parasitology for intestinal health, histopathology for submitted tissue samples, clotting factor assessment, geriatric wellness panels, progesterone testing for breeding management, tonometry for ocular pressure, and endocrinology and hormonal testing covering conditions including diabetes, Cushing's disease, Addison's disease, and thyroid disorders. Echocardiograms and mobile abdominal ultrasound are available through a visiting specialist. Pre-booking is required.
Most in-house bloodwork panels are completed within 20 to 30 minutes. We review results with you during the same appointment whenever possible, so you leave with a clear picture of your pet’s health and a plan if follow-up is needed.
Fine needle aspiration collects individual cells using a small needle and is a quick, minimally invasive first step for evaluating lumps. A biopsy collects a larger tissue core and provides more detailed information about tissue architecture. FNA is usually the first approach, with biopsy recommended if more information is needed.
To schedule diagnostic testing for your dog or cat in Port Coquitlam, call PoCo West Animal Hospital at (604) 554-1255 or book online at pocowestvets.ca/make-an-appointment/. Results and next steps, explained clearly.
