Calusa Veterinary Center

Veterinary Diagnostics & Genetic Testing in Boca Raton, FL

As pet owners, we want to ensure that our dogs and cats are healthy and happy. That's why regular visits to the veterinarian are crucial. But did you know that diagnostic tools play a crucial role in keeping our pets healthy? Diagnostic care is an important part of what we do at Calusa Veterinary Center. Our Boca Raton animal hospital has veterinary X-ray, ultrasound, and a full in-house laboratory as well as access to outside specialists for any unique diagnostic needs.

In-House Laboratory

Our in-house laboratory provides many of the diagnostic tests your pet needs, allowing us to quickly and accurately diagnose many illnesses. We also utilize an outside reference laboratory when more specialized testing is required.

Our skilled technicians perform a wide variety of tests including:

  • Complete blood counts
  • Blood chemistry profiles
  • Urinalysis
  • Fecal testing (including parasite identification)
  • Cytology (evaluation of cells from various body sites)
  • Fine needle aspirates (cytology performed using a needle to collect cells from organs or masses)

In addition, we offer many other tests such as thyroid testing, heartworm testing, and feline leukemia/AIDS testing. We also offer avian and reptile testing through our outside reference laboratory.

We understand how important your pet is to you and will do everything possible to provide you with the information you need to make the best decisions for your pet’s health.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing is a way to get information about your pet's specific genes and how they might affect their health. This type of testing can be used to diagnose genetic conditions, predict health risks, and help choose the best course of treatment for your pet.

At Calusa Veterinary Center, we offer a variety of genetic testing services for dogs, cats, and horses. We can test for more than 200 different conditions, including inherited disorders, coat color and pattern traits, drug sensitivities, and more. We also offer DNA profiling, which can be used for identification purposes if your pet is lost or stolen. We are also excited to announce that we are now offering A ROYAL CANIN® Genetic Health Analysis™ testing work.

What is a ROYAL CANIN® Genetic Health Analysis™?

A ROYAL CANIN® Genetic Health Analysis™ is a comprehensive DNA analysis that provides insights into your pet's genetic makeup. This analysis is performed by a team of experts at ROYAL CANIN®, a leader in pet nutrition and health. The analysis looks at over 200 genetic markers and provides information on your pet's breed, ancestry, and potential health risks.

If you're interested in learning more about our genetic testing services, please contact us today. We'll be happy to answer any of your questions.

How Does the ROYAL CANIN® Genetic Health Analysis™ testing work?

The process is simple and non-invasive. All you need to do is collect a small sample of your pet's DNA using a cheek swab. This can be done at home or at your veterinarian's office. Once the sample is collected, it is sent to the ROYAL CANIN® laboratory for analysis.

The experts at ROYAL CANIN® then use state-of-the-art technology to analyze your pet's DNA and provide a detailed report on their genetic makeup. The report includes information on your pet's breed, ancestry, and potential health risks. It also includes personalized recommendations for your pet's nutrition and care based on their genetic profile.

Digital X-Ray

We offer digital x-ray services which allow us to have a clear and concise image of what is going on inside your pet. This allows for more accurate diagnosis and treatment. We also use this technology to take images of pets that are in need of dental procedures. This is a minimally invasive way to get a clear picture of what is going on inside your pet's mouth.

Digital x-ray imaging is a painless process that uses very low levels of radiation. The image is then transferred to a computer where it can be enhanced for better clarity. This type of x-ray is much safer for your pet than traditional film x-rays.

If your pet is in need of diagnostic imaging, please call us to schedule an appointment.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a noninvasive diagnostic tool that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to assess the health of unborn babies but can also be used to examine many other parts of the body including the heart, liver, kidneys, and more. Ultrasound is painless and safe for both humans and animals.

At our hospital, we have a team of highly trained ultrasound technicians who are experienced in performing ultrasounds on animals. We use the latest technology and equipment to ensure that we obtain the best possible images. We can often provide same-day appointments for ultrasound services.

If you have any questions about ultrasound or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.

Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that allows your veterinarian to visualize the inside of your pet's body without having to make a large incision. It can be used to examine the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, and urinary tract. Endoscopy can be performed as an outpatient procedure, which means that your pet can go home the same day. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour. Your pet will be given a sedative before the endoscopy so that they remain calm and comfortable throughout the procedure. A local anesthetic may also be used if necessary.

Once your pet is sedated, a small camera attached to the endoscope will be inserted through their mouth or nose and into their stomach or intestines. The veterinarian will then be able to examine the inside of your pet's body and look for any abnormalities. If any tissue samples need to be taken, they can be done through the endoscope as well. A biopsy is a common type of tissue sample that is taken during an endoscopy.

After the procedure is finished, your pet will be monitored until they are fully recovered from the sedative. They will then be able to go home with you.

Endoscopy is a safe and effective way to diagnose many different conditions in pets. It is also less invasive than other diagnostic procedures, such as surgery.

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram is a specialized ultrasound test that gives us detailed information about the structure and function of your pet's heart. This test is non-invasive (does not require surgery) and does not require anesthesia.

An echocardiogram is performed by one of our trained veterinarians or veterinary technicians. Your pet will be placed on their right side on an exam table. A small amount of gel will be applied to the hairless area on the left side of your pet's chest. The veterinarian or technician will then pass a handheld device called a transducer over the gel. The transducer emits sound waves that create echoes as they bounce off different structures in your pet's heart. These echoes are then translated into images that are displayed on a monitor in real-time.

If you have any questions about echocardiograms or if you think your pet may need this test, please don't hesitate to contact us.

Allergy and Dermatology

Caring for your pet’s skin is essential, and when they have skin-related issues, it can range from uncomfortable to dangerous. That’s why we emphasize allergy and dermatology as an essential part of our veterinary service.

Dermatitis can be caused by allergic reactions, skin cancer, hormonal disorders, autoimmune diseases, tumors, infections, and other factors. If you’re worried that your pet may be suffering from a dermatological condition, look for the following warning signs and contact us today:

  • Flaky or red skin
  • Hair loss
  • Excessive licking or biting
  • Excessive itching
  • Watery or irritated eyes
  • Lumps or bumps on the skin
  • Unseasonable shedding
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Changes in behavior

Join the Calusa Veterinary Center Family Today!

Phone: 561-999-3000

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