Pet Diagnostics for Dogs, Cats, and Small Animals in Abbotsford

Understanding what is happening inside your pet's body starts with the right information. Gladys Pet Hospital is equipped with a full on-site diagnostic suite, including digital X-ray, ultrasound, digital dental X-ray, and an in-house IDEXX laboratory, allowing our team to gather results during your visit rather than sending samples out and asking you to wait days for answers. This capability is particularly valuable when timing matters. Our AAHA-accredited team serves dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters in Abbotsford, with seven-day access to make scheduling straightforward.

In-House Laboratory Services

Our on-site IDEXX laboratory handles a comprehensive range of blood and urine testing, including complete blood panels, biochemistry profiles, urinalysis, urine culture, snap testing for common infectious diseases, Giardia testing, clotting factor assessment, titer testing, and ACTH stimulation testing for adrenal function evaluation. Having these results available during or shortly after your appointment allows our team to make faster, more informed decisions about next steps for your pet's care. Pets from Mission and surrounding Fraser Valley communities regularly visit our Abbotsford clinic for on-the-day lab results.

Digital Imaging and Radiology

Digital X-ray produces clear, high-resolution images of your pet's bones, chest, and abdominal organs without the delays associated with traditional film processing. Our system allows us to view, zoom, and share images immediately. Chest X-ray is useful for evaluating heart size and lung health. Abdominal X-ray helps assess organ positioning, identify foreign objects, and evaluate for obstructions. For dental health, we use a dedicated digital dental X-ray system that reveals the portion of the tooth below the gumline, critical for identifying root disease, bone loss, and the extent of dental concerns that are not visible during a standard oral exam.

Ultrasound in Abbotsford

Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging tool that provides real-time views of soft tissue structures, including abdominal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, and intestines. It is also used for echocardiography, imaging of the heart, to evaluate cardiac structure and function. Ultrasound allows our team to identify organ changes, fluid accumulation, and soft tissue masses that X-ray cannot fully characterize. It is often used alongside other diagnostics to build a more complete picture of what is happening internally.

Specialized and Hormonal Testing

For pets with suspected hormonal or endocrine concerns, we offer progesterone testing, endocrinology panels, and ACTH stimulation testing. Cytology, the microscopic evaluation of cells collected by fine needle aspiration (FNA) or skin scraping, is used to assess masses, skin lesions, and ear discharge. Microscopic evaluation for ear mites is also available in-house. These specialized assessments give our team a clearer picture when surface-level evaluation is not enough to determine what is happening.

Biopsy and Tissue Sampling

Biopsy is a standalone diagnostic service at Gladys Pet Hospital, available for routine cases and as a follow-up to other findings. When a mass, lesion, or area of concern is identified, tissue sampling provides cellular-level information that guides the approach going forward. Our team performs fine needle aspirates and tissue biopsies as appropriate, with samples sent to an external pathology laboratory for detailed analysis. Results are reviewed with you directly, and our team will walk you through what the findings mean and what options are available.

Explore More Services

Medical services supported by diagnostics

Surgical services that may follow diagnostic findings

Pet dental care including dental X-rays

FAQs

How long does it take to get lab results at Gladys Pet Hospital?

Many routine blood and urine panels run through our on-site IDEXX laboratory are available within the same visit or within a few hours. Some specialized tests require samples to be sent to an external reference laboratory, which typically adds a few days. Our team will let you know at the time of your appointment which results will be available on the day and which will follow.

Does my pet need sedation for an ultrasound?

Most pets tolerate abdominal ultrasound without sedation. The area being imaged is shaved and a gel is applied to the skin to improve contact with the transducer. Some pets may need light sedation if they are very anxious or the area being imaged requires the pet to hold still for longer periods. Our team will discuss what to expect before beginning the procedure.

What is the difference between an X-ray and an ultrasound?

X-ray produces images of dense structures such as bones, the chest cavity, and larger abdominal organs. It is well suited to identifying fractures, lung changes, and foreign objects. Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce real-time images of soft tissue organs and is better for evaluating organ texture, fluid, and internal masses. The two are often complementary, using both together gives our team the most complete picture of your pet’s internal health.

Can small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs have blood work done?

Yes, blood panels can be performed on rabbits and guinea pigs, though the sample volumes required and the reference ranges used differ from those for dogs and cats. Our team is experienced in small animal blood collection and will use an approach appropriate for your pet’s size. Laboratory results can help identify infections, organ function concerns, and nutritional imbalances in small animals.

Fast, accurate diagnostics help your pet get the right care sooner. Gladys Pet Hospital's on-site diagnostic suite is available seven days a week in Abbotsford. Schedule your pet's assessment at https://gladysvet.ca/appointment-booking/ or call (604) 850-2000, results you can act on, without the wait.