Baseline Lab Work is an Investment in your Pets Longevity

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Getting baseline bloodwork for your pet while they are young and healthy is an invaluable step in proactive healthcare. Here is why it is so important:

1. Establish Normal Values

• Every pet is unique, and baseline bloodwork helps determine their "normal" levels for key indicators like red and white blood cell counts, kidney and liver function, and glucose levels. This personalized reference is especially helpful later if any abnormalities arise.

2. Early Detection of Hidden Conditions

• Even a pet that appears healthy can have underlying conditions like anemia, early kidney disease, or mild infections that are not yet causing visible symptoms. Baseline bloodwork can catch these issues early, allowing for prompt treatment.

3. Monitoring Over Time

• As your pet ages or undergoes changes in health, baseline bloodwork serves as a comparison point. This helps veterinarians identify subtle changes in organ function or detect gradual onset of chronic diseases like diabetes or thyroid issues.

4. Preparing for Surgery, Dental or Anesthesia

• If your pet needs a surgical or dental procedure in the future, having baseline bloodwork already available ensures their organs and systems function well enough to tolerate anesthesia safely.

5. Breed or Species-Specific Risks

• Certain breeds and species are predisposed to specific health conditions (e.g., kidney disease in cats, heart conditions in certain dogs). Baseline tests can help screen for these risks and guide preventive measures.

6. Building a Long-Term Care Plan

• By understanding your pet’s normal health profile early, you and your veterinarian can create a tailored care plan that promotes optimal health throughout their life.

7. Unpredictable Emergency

• You never know what life will bring. Baseline bloodwork is crucial for pets because it provides a snapshot of their normal health parameters. In emergencies, veterinarians can compare current bloodwork results to the baseline to quickly identify abnormalities and make informed decisions about treatment. It helps detect underlying conditions early, ensures safe anesthesia during procedures, and monitors the effects of medications.

• Pet owners should always keep a copy of your pet’s most recent lab results and list of medication with you in case you need to see a veterinarian other than your regular veterinarian, like the ER or a veterinarian while traveling.

Conclusion:

Investing in baseline bloodwork while your pet is young and healthy is a gift to your pet’s future self. It empowers you to catch potential health concerns early, track changes, and ensure they receive the best care as they age.