Urinalysis and Fecal Exam

Urinalysis and fecal exams are the two most common lab tests we perform in our in-house lab. We evaluate your dog’s urine to reveal hydration status, infections, diabetes, bladder or kidney disease, and other health conditions. We assess your dog’s fecal sample for consistency, colour as well as the presence of blood or mucus. We will then examine it under a microscope for internal parasites or fungus.

Why are canine fecal examinations recommended yearly?

At Crossroads Animal Hospital, we currently do not recommend fecal testing on a yearly basis. Some issues or concerns may require testing, such as diarrhea or the presence of blood in the stool, or concerns regarding internal parasites, a fecal test will be performed. As long as you are following regular deworming protocol as recommended by your veterinarian, we don’t require yearly fecal tests.

If my dog’s urine test reveals a urinary tract infection, what can I do?

If a UA – urinalysis test has been performed on your dog and reveals infection, the veterinarian will prescribe appropriate medications as treatment. The veterinarian will thoroughly discuss the care and treatment required to have your dog feeling better as soon as possible.