Urinalysis and Fecal Exam
Urinalysis is an important diagnostic tool for many diseases. Urine testing is typically the first step in diagnosing a simple urinary tract infection to more complicated systemic illnesses, such as diabetes, kidney disease, and Cushing’s disease. Fecal analysis (or poop analysis) is an important tool for detecting intestinal parasites in dogs. Intestinal parasites can cause poor health in dogs and are a major cause of diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
Why are fecal examinations required yearly?
We recommend routine fecal examinations because parasites are contagious to all ages and sizes of dogs. Dog to dog contact is not required to spread most parasites. Routine fecal checks allow us to make sure your pet is intestinal parasite free!
If my dog’s urine test reveals a urinary tract infection, what can I do?
Once your dog has been examined and a urinalysis has been done, medications can be dispensed for the urinary tract infection. The medications prescribed are dependent on the results of the urinalysis and sometimes a diet change is recommended if there are concurrent issues (such as crystals in the urine or bladder stones). Your dog’s specific needs will be addressed based on the findings of the urinalysis and the physical exam done by a veterinarian.
