JVC offers a variety of in-house diagnostics in addition to utilizing services from referal labs.
Radiology
Radiographs, commonly known as x-rays, allow us to see what is going on in the body without being invasive. Radiographs assist in the diagnosis of bone, joint, lung and abdominal disorders. In addition to diagnostic radiographs, JVC also offers OFA radiographs which are used by breeders to screen dogs for hereditary joint problems prior to breeding.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds can be used to diagnose many conditions such as bladder abnormalities in animals with urinary conditions, pregnancy, and abnormalities with the liver, kidney, or spleen. For advanced ultrasound studies involving complete abdominal evaluation (and possibly biopsies), JVC works with a board certified radiologist who comes to our clinic for your convenience.
4DX
We use IDEXX 4DX Testing for diagnosing Heartworm and tick-borne diseases (Lyme, Ehrlichia and Anaplasmosis). We recommend yearly heartworm testing for dogs on seasonal heartworm preventative and every two years for dogs on year round heartworm preventative.
FeLV/FIV
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are both viruses that can be transmitted from feline mothers to kittens before birth as well as through cat bites. It is important to know if your cat is infected because these viruses can change a cat’s quality of life. JVC uses the IDEXX FeLV/FIV snap test, which allows us to test your cat in minutes, using only a small amount of blood. We recommend any new cat coming into a home, or cats showing signs of either disease, be tested. For more information of FeLV/FIV see our client handouts under the client resources page.
Tonopen
JVC has the ability to test for glaucoma as well as other diseases that affect the pressure of the eye using the Tonopen Tonometer. Screening allows for your pet to be treated more quickly and allows for monitoring the response to treatment.
Fecals
Several diseases can be passed from pet to humans which are known as zoonotic diseases. Some of these diseases involve intestinal parasites found in cats and dog. Therefore, we recommend yearly fecal exams on all pets to ensure they are free of internal parasites. In-house fecal testing is available, and can be completed with just a small amount of fresh feces.
Urinalysis
We can run an in-house urinalysis by analyzing urine from your pet when there is a change in the amount or frequency of urination. This aids in the diagnosis of urinary tract infections, diabetes, urine crystals or kidney disease.
IDEXX Lab Equipment
JVC utilizes the IDEXX Lab Suite which includes the IDEXX Catalyst DX and Lasercyte to provide comprehensive blood chemistry panels, complete blood counts (CBC), thyroid levels and blood clotting times. We offer a 17-panel test that allows us to assess liver, kidney and pancreatic health. TheCBC looks at the animal’s blood cells which can be used to diagnose infection, anemia or clotting problems.
Thyroid tests allow us to measure thyroid hormone which is responsible for the body’s metabolism and other body functions. We use it to diagnose and monitor cats with hyperthyroidism and monitor dogs being treated for hypothyroidism.
Our blood clotting time machine enables us to quickly check an animal’s ability to clot blood. This helps diagnose a blood clotting disorder or check animals prior to surgery.
Referral Labs
For advanced diagnostics we work with several referral laboratories. The availability of test results varies based on the specific test requested.