Veterinary Laboratory Diagnostics in Langley, BC
Accurate laboratory testing is essential for diagnosing illness, monitoring ongoing conditions, and keeping your pet healthy. At Brookswood Veterinary Hospital, we offer advanced in-house diagnostic testing along with access to trusted reference laboratories, so your pet receives accurate, timely results and the right treatment as quickly as possible.
Request an AppointmentIn-House IDEXX Laboratory Testing
Our in-house IDEXX laboratory equipment allows us to run many important tests right here at our Langley animal hospital. Because results are often available within hours, our veterinarians can make timely treatment decisions when your pet needs them most, whether they are sick, injured, or preparing for surgery or a dental procedure.
In-house tests include:
- Complete blood count (CBC) – Evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets to detect anemia, infection, inflammation, and clotting concerns.
- Blood chemistry panels – Assess organ function, including the liver and kidneys, along with blood sugar, electrolytes, and protein levels.
- Urinalysis – Screens for urinary tract infections, crystals, kidney disease, and diabetes.
- Cytology and microscopy – Microscopic evaluation of blood, ear, and skin samples to identify infections, inflammation, parasites, and abnormal cells.
Reference Laboratory Partnerships
For specialized testing, we work closely with trusted local reference laboratories, giving us access to a wide range of diagnostic tests. These laboratories employ board-certified pathologists and internal medicine specialists who provide expert interpretation of blood, urine, fecal, and tissue samples. Working with local laboratories helps ensure samples stay fresh and results are delivered efficiently and accurately.
When Lab Testing Is Recommended
Laboratory diagnostics play a role in nearly every stage of your pet’s life. We may recommend testing:
- When your pet is showing signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or changes in thirst or appetite
- Before anesthesia to help ensure procedures are as safe as possible
- As part of preventive health screening in our wellness programs
- Every six months for older pets enrolled in our senior programs
- To monitor long-term medications and chronic conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or thyroid disease
- To guide therapeutic diets through our nutrition program and weight loss programs
A Complete Diagnostic Picture
Lab results are often combined with digital X-rays and ultrasound through our medical imaging services to give our veterinarians a complete picture of your pet’s health. Our team will always review results with you, explain what they mean, and discuss the next steps in your pet’s care.
If your pet is due for bloodwork or you have concerns about their health, call (604) 534-4174 to schedule an appointment, or view all of our veterinary services.
Veterinary Laboratory Diagnostics FAQs
How quickly will I get my pet’s lab results?
Many tests performed on our in-house IDEXX equipment are available within hours. Specialized tests sent to reference laboratories typically take a few days, depending on the test.
What tests can you run in-house?
Our in-house laboratory performs complete blood counts, blood chemistry panels, urinalysis, and cytology, including microscopic evaluation of blood, ear, and skin samples.
Why does my pet need bloodwork before anesthesia?
Pre-anesthetic bloodwork checks organ function and blood cell counts to help identify hidden health concerns and allows us to tailor anesthesia to your pet for a safer procedure.
Does my healthy pet need lab testing?
Yes. Preventive health screening can detect early changes in organ function and other developing conditions before outward signs of illness appear, allowing earlier and more effective treatment.
Who interprets tests sent to outside laboratories?
Our reference laboratory partners employ board-certified pathologists and internal medicine specialists who provide expert interpretation of blood, urine, fecal, and tissue samples.
How often should senior pets have bloodwork?
We generally recommend preventive screening for senior pets every six months as part of their twice-yearly wellness exams, so we can track trends and catch changes early.
Can lab tests detect parasites?
Yes. Fecal testing and microscopy help identify intestinal parasites, and we can also screen for vector-borne diseases carried by ticks and other parasites.
