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What’s the best way to avoid common dog health problems?

By Kristiina Ruotsalo, DVM, DVSc, Dip ACVP and Margo S. Tant BSc, DVM, DVSc

Why should I bring my dog to the vet for wellness testing?

Wellness testing can help your pet avoid common dog health problems.

Throughout your dog’s life, wellness testing can help your vet detect early signs of hidden diseases when your pet appears to be healthy.
It’s also a helpful way to prevent or avoid common dog health problems.
Since your dog can’t tell you how he or she is feeling, problems may be lurking before anyone notices them.
If your vet can detect a disease or condition before symptoms appear, it’s easier to manage or correct the problem before irreversible damage occurs.
In short, wellness testing is the best way to help make sure your pet lives a long, healthy and active life.

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What tests help with my dog’s well-being?

If your dog is young or middle-aged, your veterinarian will likely recommend specific tests within the following 4 categories, depending on your dog’s age, current health status, lifestyle and other factors.

​Complete Blood Count (CBC) test for dog wellness

This simple test provides information about the number, size and shape of various cells types, and identifies abnormal cells. It analyzes:

Red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body’s tissues.
White blood cells, which fight infection and respond to inflammation
Platelets, which help with blood clotting.

Biochemistry Profile

This test series is performed on serum (the liquid component of blood) to provide insights into how well various organs are performing and help detect the presence of certain diseases.
For example, these test results help your vet assess the liver and kidneys, or identify the presence of diabetes.
Minor abnormalities are usually monitored over time, such as a few days, weeks or months. Or your vet may recommend further testing such as an expanded biochemistry profile, specialized tests, X-rays, ultrasound, etc.

Urinalysis

This test provides information about kidney and urinary system performance, inflammation or infection.
It may detect the presence of underlying diseases such as diabetes.  ​

Thyroid testing

This test detects hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. (The thyroid gland plays an important role of 'setting' the metabolic rate of the whole body.)
This test is recommended for all middle age dogs and older during the annual visit or if you see symptoms such as unexplained weight gain, lack of energy, recurring skin or ear infections, or hair loss on your dog’s body and/or tail.

When is wellness testing done?

In most cases, wellness tests are performed when you bring your dog to the vet once a year for a physical exam, vaccinations and heartworm testing.
Your veterinarian may recommend more frequent testing depending on your dog's age or specific health concerns.

The good news is — wellness tests and an annual exam are great steps toward keeping your dog healthy for a long time.

With regular monitoring, it’s easier for your veterinarian to detect and address minor changes that signal the onset of disease.
Author - copyright

Written by:
Margo S. Tant, BSc, DVM, DVSc
Kristiina Ruotsalo, DVM, DVSc, ACVP

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