Important Tests

Routine screening tests are important tools for optimum health!

Heartworm Test Heartworm is a fatal disease spread by the bite of mosquitoes. Mississippi is in the middle of the heartworm disease belt. We test annually for heartworm in this region. The test is necessary whether or not your dog lives inside or outside, and it is necessary whether or not your dog is on heartworm preventatives year round. Since it only takes one mosquito bite to cause disease, all pets are vulnerable. The test requires a small amount of blood and can be performed while you wait. We do not currently have a reliable test for heartworms in cats or ferrets, but preventative is encouraged since there is no current treatment for these species, and a very small number or worms can be fatal. Heartworm preventatives are prescription medications and will only be sold with a doctor's order.

EKG (Electrocardiogram) - A quick electrocardiogram should be performed on all young animals, not only to screen for problems, but also to provide good baseline information about the pet, which may be quite useful later on in life. One of the major concerns in young cats is feline cardiomyopathy. When heart disease is diagnosed before clinical signs are observed in a patient, we are extremely effective in controlling this problem. An electrocardiogram combined with chest X-rays and a cardiac ultrasound are often required to diagnose the exact cause in most heart disease. Heart disease is one of the top three causes of death in older pets. Early detection is the most effective means of managing heart disease and allowing the pet to live a relatively normal life.

Intestinal Parasite Tests - Since some intestinal parasites can infect people, yearly stool tests protect both your pet and your family. There are 6 common intestinal parasites that your pet may be exposed to on a regular basis. Dogs put all sorts of things in their mouths. The test is performed by examining a small quantity of stool through a microscopic flotation to identify characteristic parasite eggs.

Feline Leukemia/FIV Test - This blood test is extremely important for kittens in our pediatric program. Feline Leukemia can spread rapidly once introduced in a household; consequently a multi-cat household is at greater risk, especially when adding young kittens. Both diseases shorten the life span of the infected cat and are best prevented with vaccination, indoor housing, and spaying or neutering.