Blood Test

Our in-house laboratory can provide results very quickly. Specialised testing may take 12-24 hours for blood results or up to 14 days for biopsy results, depending on the nature of the test being performed. Ask your veterinarian when to call for your pet’s laboratory results.

Common types of blood tests for pets

1. Complete blood count (CBC)

• Measures the number and types of blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets).
• Helps diagnose infections, anemia, inflammation, and blood clotting problems.

2. Blood chemistry panel

• Evaluates the function of organs such as the liver, kidneys, and pancreas.
• Includes tests for blood glucose, proteins, electrolytes, enzymes, and more.
• Useful for diagnosing conditions like kidney disease, liver dysfunction, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.

3. Thyroid function test
Measures levels of thyroid hormones to detect hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, especially in dogs and cats.

4. Electrolyte panel

• Assesses levels of sodium, potassium, and calcium in the blood.
• Helps diagnose dehydration, kidney disease, and other metabolic disorders.

5. Heartworm test

• Screens for heartworm infection, which is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be life-threatening if untreated.
• Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Test: Specific to cats, these blood tests check for viral infections that can weaken a cat’s immune system.

6. Parvovirus test (for dogs):
Screens for parvovirus, a highly contagious virus that affects the gastrointestinal tract of dogs.

7. Pre-anesthetic blood test:
Performed before surgery to ensure that a pet’s organs are functioning properly and that anesthesia can be safely administered.

When blood tests are needed

What to expect during a blood test

Procedure

A small sample of blood is taken from a vein, usually in the leg or neck.

Timing

Results for common blood tests are typically available within a few hours or days.

Stress on the pet

Most pets tolerate blood draws well, but some may need to be gently restrained or comforted to minimize stress.

Benefits of blood testing for pets

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
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 Tessa Verde 
 
 
 
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Very impressed with the Vet & staff Was so important to feel the warmth & empathy towards my ailing cat. Fabulous location for Betty ????
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Jessica Doncaster 
 
 
 
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James and the team were amazing when we had to take Lulu in for stitches! Patient, the after care was great. Can recommend them to look after your fur baby.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Kyle Wightman 
 
 
 
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As Kew residents, our Lagotto Romagnolo Yoshi has been a patient of Dr James Taylor for some years during his time practicing nearby in Deepdene. Now that James is practising in Brighton, travelling the distance through Melbourne traffic to Brighton to see James  on an ongoing basis for Yoshi’s health, is a no brainer for us. James’ attention to Yoshi on 29 May 2024 was as professional and caring as always. He removed two, luckily benign, lumps which had been growing for a while, and also identified a heart murmur. Before operating to remove the lumps, James undertook an echocardiogram on Yoshi to track down the cause of the heart murmur, identifying that he had Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease.  This condition requires ongoing medication to control and improve the condition. Medication was immediately administered and due to Yoshi’s fitness otherwise, we asked James to go ahead and remove the lumps immediately. This was done, Yoshi has fully recovered, and we are delighted once again with James’ care and professionalism. Kyle & Terry
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Tim Gibson 
 
 
 
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Fantastic and caring service from the Brighton Vet team to look after our cat. Amazing follow up service as well to ensure Garfunkel was progressing through his recovery
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Kate Hutchinson 
 
 
 
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We are beyond grateful to Dr. James Taylor and the amazing team at Brighton Veterinary Hospital for saving our dog Nala. She needed emergency surgery due to a stomach blockage, and Dr. James stayed back to perform the operation, showing incredible dedication and compassion. The team even texted us to let us know she was doing well overnight and had eaten, which was so reassuring. Throughout Nala’s recovery, Dr. James and the staff checked in on her and patiently answered all of our (sometimes silly) questions, making us feel supported every step of the way. Thanks to their outstanding care, Nala is on the mend, wagging her tail once more, and we couldn’t be happier. If you’re looking for a vet who truly cares, Dr. James at Brighton Veterinary Hospital is the one. Thank you so much for everything!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 KT 
 
 
 
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Doctor James was very experienced and provided us with a good advice which helped us make a decision of not doing a permanent surgery and instead did a temporary stitching to our puppy who had Entropion. This not only helped us save money , but also gave our puppy a chance to out grown the issue rather than having a permanent surgery.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Chloe 
 
 
 
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Dr James you took care of Haki at Balwyn for years and we have been trying to find you since we heard you left. My daughter did some detective work and found you I hope you don't mind. We are happy to travel even though it is far.
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Nick Holden 
 
 
 
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James and the team did a fantastic job looking after our Cavador, Frankie, when she had to have a canine cruciate ligament surgery (TPLO). The surgery results were excellent and then their advice and care over the 12 weeks of rehab were first class - James was always contactable for quick checkins outside of consults and was very careful with medications owing to Frankie’s allergies. She is now back running flat out, full of energy and happy, Frankie loved going in for her check ups and pulled me through the door every time. A huge thanks from our whole family to the team!!
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Claudia Hounslow 
 
 
 
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James is amazing ????
  
 
  
 
 
 
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 Raymond Capkin 
 
 
 
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Took my " Seve" shmoodle today for her final vaccination. The love James has for his clients shines through. Great personal service and am happy to have this clinic as my vet.