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Pet Diagnostics in Penticton, BC

Pet diagnostics at Peach City Animal Hospital in Penticton give our team the information needed to make confident, well-supported clinical decisions. We combine in-house laboratory testing with digital imaging and reference laboratory services to cover the full spectrum of diagnostic needs. Faster results mean faster care, and more comprehensive testing means fewer missed findings. Whether your pet is coming in for a routine wellness check or an acute health concern, diagnostics are central to delivering the right care at the right time.

Blood Panels and Complete Blood Count

In-house blood testing at our Penticton clinic includes complete blood count (CBC) for red and white blood cell analysis, comprehensive chemistry panels to assess organ function, and targeted panels for senior pets requiring more detailed metabolic screening. Same-day results allow us to assess kidney and liver function, blood sugar, protein levels, and immune cell counts at the time of your visit. We use blood testing proactively at wellness exams, before surgery, when monitoring chronic conditions, and whenever a pet presents with symptoms that suggest systemic involvement.

Digital X-Ray

Full-body digital radiographs allow us to evaluate the chest, abdomen, and skeletal structures quickly and with high clarity. Digital X-ray produces immediate results and reduces radiation exposure compared to traditional radiographic film. We use thoracic X-rays to assess heart size and lung fields, abdominal imaging to evaluate organ size and detect masses or foreign bodies, and skeletal imaging for fractures, joint disease, and developmental abnormalities. For cases requiring specialist interpretation, our digital images are reviewed by a consulting board-certified veterinary radiologist. Dental X-rays are available during dental cleaning procedures.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound imaging provides real-time, detailed views of internal organs and soft tissue structures that X-ray cannot fully evaluate. Common uses include abdominal ultrasound to assess the liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, and bladder, echocardiography for cardiac assessment, and pregnancy confirmation. Ultrasound at our clinic is provided by a visiting veterinary specialist, and pre-booking is required. If your pet's case may benefit from ultrasound evaluation, our team will coordinate the appointment and communicate findings to you promptly.

Urinalysis and SNAP Testing

Urinalysis is one of the most informative and underused diagnostic tools in veterinary medicine. A complete urinalysis evaluates urine concentration, pH, protein and glucose levels, the presence of blood or infection, and sediment for cells and crystals. It is a core component of kidney monitoring, diabetes management, and urinary tract infection assessment. SNAP tests provide rapid, in-house results for heartworm, Lyme disease, Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, feline leukemia, feline immunodeficiency virus, parvovirus, and giardia. These tests deliver results within minutes and allow immediate clinical response.

Skin Scraping, Cytology, and Fine-Needle Aspirate

Skin scrapings identify mites, fungi, and bacteria on or within the skin layers, providing a clear picture of surface infections and infestations. Cytology involves microscopically examining cells collected from skin, ears, or masses. Fine-needle aspirates (FNA) collect cells from a lump or enlarged lymph node using a small needle, allowing preliminary characterization without surgery. FNA results guide decisions about whether surgical removal and histopathology are needed. These procedures are minimally invasive and can be performed at most routine visits.

Biopsies and Histopathology

Biopsy and histopathology provide definitive assessment of tissue removed from a mass, skin lesion, or internal organ. Samples are sent to our reference laboratory partner where a veterinary pathologist evaluates the cell type, arrangement, and any markers of malignancy. Histopathology results guide post-surgical follow-up, staging decisions, and long-term monitoring plans. We review biopsy results with you in detail and outline next steps based on findings. For routine biopsy needs, testing is available through our standard diagnostic workflow. Urgent same-day biopsies related to acute injury or suspected infection are managed through our urgent care service.

Thyroid, Hormone, and Reproductive Testing

Thyroid testing is indicated for dogs with signs of hypothyroidism and for cats suspected of hyperthyroidism. Hormone panels for conditions such as Cushing's disease, Addison's disease, and diabetes are available in-house and through our reference laboratory. Progesterone testing supports breeding programs and is used to identify the optimal time for breeding or to monitor pregnancy. All hormone testing is conducted in coordination with a full clinical assessment to ensure results are interpreted in context.

Explore More

Medical services for chronic conditions
Surgical services and pre-surgical bloodwork
Pet care services and routine wellness testing

FAQs

How fast do you get lab results at your Penticton clinic?
In-house blood panels, urinalysis, SNAP tests, and cytology results are available the same day, usually while you wait or within the hour. Reference laboratory results, including histopathology and advanced hormone panels, typically take two to five business days. We contact you as soon as results are available and review all findings with you in detail.
Does my pet need to fast before blood tests?
For a complete chemistry panel, we recommend fasting your pet for eight to twelve hours beforehand because recent meals can affect certain values, particularly triglycerides and glucose. For a CBC alone, fasting is not required. If you are unsure whether to fast your pet before an appointment, call us at (778) 900-0111 and we will advise based on which tests are planned.
What is the difference between a biopsy and a fine-needle aspirate?
A fine-needle aspirate uses a small needle to collect individual cells for cytology and provides a preliminary assessment that guides the next step. It is quick, minimally invasive, and can be done at most visits. A biopsy collects a larger tissue sample that is sent to a pathologist for histopathology. Biopsies provide more definitive findings, particularly for masses, and are recommended when the aspirate result is inconclusive or when more detailed information is needed for surgical planning.
Fast, accurate diagnostic testing for dogs and cats in Penticton. Call (778) 900-0111 or book online at https://us.vetstoria.com/booking/691f3baa53f85/. Our team is ready to answer your questions and find the right testing approach for your pet.

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