Diagnostic Care

Diagnostic Laboratory

Because your pet cannot tell us what is wrong, Colony Animal Hospital offers extensive in-house diagnostic laboratory testing. Our in-house lab provides immediate results. This means your pet receives fast, accurate treatment. Our hospital has the capability to perform biochemical profiles (kidneys, liver, pancreas), coagulation analysis (clotting), urinalysis, parasite screenings and screenings for feline leukemia, parvo virus, and pancreatitis. If your pet requires more complex testing, we use a laboratory that specializes in animal diagnostics and most results are obtained within 24 hours.

In-House Diagnostic Equipment

When your pet is sick, you want him or her to receive fast, comprehensive treatment. In order to better care for your pet, Colony Animal Hospital has invested in the latest veterinary diagnostic equipment, including:

• Digital tonometer - A diagnostic tool that measures intra-ocular eye pressure. The digital tonometer is used to test for glaucoma and other eye conditions.
• Blood pressure monitoring equipment.
• Video otoscope - A video otoscope is used to provide a detailed view inside your pet's ears and aids in deep cleaning and treatment of ear conditions.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound uses sound waves to visualize organs in the chest or abdomen. This is especially helpful in pregnancy evaluations and the diagnosis of many other medical conditions. Biopsies may be performed using ultrasound guidance, thus avoiding a more invasive surgical procedure. Ultrasound rarely requires sedation and generally is done on an outpatient basis. Colony Animal Hospital uses modern ultrasound equipment, similar to that found in human hospitals, when diagnosing your pet.

Radiology

Radiographs (x-rays) are an extremely powerful diagnostic tool. Colony Animal Hospital is equipped with the latest digital x-ray technology. Digital x-rays provide images that yield an accurate assessment of your pet's condition. All digital x-rays are sent to a board-certified veterinary radiologist for interpretation and results are usually available the same day.

X-rays are useful in evaluating a number of areas of your pet's body, from the heart, lungs, and reproductive system to the gastrointestinal tract and the musculoskeleton system. We also perform radiographic contrast studies such as barium series (stomach, intestines), intravenous pyleograms (kidneys), and positive contrast cystograms (urinary bladder).

Digital x-ray equipment produces high-quality, detailed images that are immediately available for viewing, thus reducing the time your pet spends in radiology. These images can be digitally enhanced and transferred via the internet to specialists anywhere in the country.