Vets usually charge anywhere from $50 to $300 for a routine blood test, depending on the complexity of the test and the location of the clinic. It’s always best to call your local clinic and ask for a quote before scheduling an appointment.
Let’s break it down to give you a better understanding of the costs involved.
Basic Blood Panel
This is the most basic type of blood test and typically costs around $50 to $100. It includes a complete blood count, a chemistry panel to check your pet’s liver and kidney function, and a blood glucose test.
Comprehensive Blood Panel
This is a more comprehensive version of the basic blood panel and typically costs around $100 to $200. It includes all the tests included in the basic panel, plus additional tests to check for specific diseases, such as heartworm, Lyme disease, and feline leukemia.
Specialty Tests
If your pet needs specialized tests, such as a thyroid test, cortisol level test, or liver function test, the cost can vary widely. These tests typically cost anywhere from $50 to $300, depending on the test and location of the clinic.
Nearby low cost vet for a blood test
1. PetSmart vet clinic
Pros:
Convenient Location: PetSmart is a well-known chain, and finding a location near you won’t be a challenge. This can make it a convenient choice for those who don’t want to travel far for their pet’s health needs.
Affordability: PetSmart’s vet clinic offers some of the most affordable prices for blood tests in the market. This can be a lifesaver for pet owners on a budget who still want to provide the best care for their pets.
Wide Range of Services: PetSmart’s vet clinic offers a variety of services, including vaccinations, spaying and neutering, and more. This means you can take care of multiple health needs in one visit.
Cons:
Crowded: PetSmart’s popularity can be both a blessing and a curse. During busy times, the clinic can get crowded, leading to long wait times. This can be frustrating for pet owners in a hurry.
Limited Availability: PetSmart’s vet clinic operates during limited hours, meaning you may have to adjust your schedule to get the services you need. This can be a problem for pet owners with a busy schedule.
Limited Expertise: PetSmart’s vet clinic is not a specialized center, meaning that if your pet requires specialized treatment, you may need to find another clinic.
2. Vetco Total Care at Petco
Pros:
Cost-effective: Vetco Total Care at Petco offers blood tests at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional veterinary clinics. This makes it a great option for pet owners who are on a tight budget.
Convenient: With multiple locations in most states, Vetco Total Care at Petco is a convenient option for pet owners who want to get a blood test done quickly and easily.
No appointment needed: Unlike traditional veterinary clinics, Vetco Total Care at Petco does not require an appointment. This makes it a great option for pet owners who need to get a blood test done on short notice.
Cons:
Limited services: Vetco Total Care at Petco only offers a limited range of services, including blood tests. For more serious health issues, pet owners may need to seek care at a full-service veterinary clinic.
Long wait times: With no appointment needed, Vetco Total Care at Petco can get quite busy, leading to long wait times. This can be frustrating for pet owners who are in a hurry.
Limited medical expertise: As a low-cost clinic, Vetco Total Care at Petco may not have the same level of medical expertise as traditional veterinary clinics. This may be a concern for pet owners who are looking for a highly qualified veterinarian to perform a blood test.
Prices:
In terms of prices, Vetco Total Care at Petco offers blood tests for a very reasonable price, typically ranging from $20-$50. This makes it an excellent option for pet owners who want to save money without sacrificing quality care for their pets.
3. VIP Petcare at Pet Supplies Plus
Pros:
Budget friendly: The main draw of VIP Petcare at Pet Supplies Plus is their low cost blood tests. They offer these tests at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional veterinary clinics.
Convenient location: With over 550 Pet Supplies Plus locations across the country, VIP Petcare makes it easy to find a clinic near you.
Quick and easy: No appointment necessary, simply walk in and your pet will receive a blood test in no time.
Cons:
Limited services: While they offer low cost blood tests, VIP Petcare at Pet Supplies Plus is limited in the services they offer. If your pet needs additional medical attention, you may need to seek help elsewhere.
Crowded and busy: With the convenience of a Pet Supplies Plus location, it can sometimes be crowded and busy. You may have to wait in line or wait for an available technician to test your pet’s blood.
Limited hours: Not all Pet Supplies Plus locations have VIP Petcare clinics and the hours may vary. Be sure to check ahead of time if the clinic is open and when the best time to visit is.
In terms of prices, VIP Petcare at Pet Supplies Plus offers low cost blood tests starting at $19.99. This is a great option for pet owners who are looking to save some money, but also need to consider the limitations of the services they offer.
4. Banfield Pet Hospital
Pros:
Convenient Location: Banfield Pet Hospital has a wide network of locations, making it very accessible for pet owners. You can easily find a clinic near you.
Affordable Prices: Banfield Pet Hospital is one of the most affordable veterinary clinics for blood tests, making it a great option for pet owners who are on a tight budget.
Well-Equipped: Banfield Pet Hospital is well-equipped with the latest medical technology, which means your pet will receive the best possible care.
Experienced Staff: Banfield Pet Hospital has a team of experienced veterinarians and technicians who are dedicated to providing the best possible care for your pet.
Cons:
Crowded: Banfield Pet Hospital can get quite crowded at times, which means you might have to wait for a while to get your pet’s blood tests done.
Long Wait Times: The long wait times at Banfield Pet Hospital can be quite frustrating, especially if you’re in a hurry.
Limited Services: Banfield Pet Hospital is a low-cost veterinary clinic, which means they might not offer all the services you need for your pet.
5. VCA Animal Hospitals
Pros:
Affordable prices: VCA Animal Hospitals offer affordable prices for blood tests, making it easier for pet owners to provide their furry friends with the care they need without breaking the bank.
Wide range of services: VCA Animal Hospitals offer a wide range of services for pets, including diagnostic tests, vaccinations, and treatments for various health conditions. This makes it a one-stop shop for pet owners who need multiple services for their pets.
Experienced staff: The staff at VCA Animal Hospitals are experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring that your pet receives the best possible care. They are passionate about helping animals and providing quality care to pet owners.
Cons:
Long wait times: Due to its popularity, VCA Animal Hospitals can get crowded and there can be long wait times. This can be frustrating for pet owners who are in a hurry or have busy schedules.
Limited appointment availability: Due to high demand, it can be difficult to get an appointment with VCA Animal Hospitals, especially during peak hours. This can be an issue for pet owners who need urgent care for their pets.
Not all locations have an in-house lab: Some of the VCA Animal Hospitals do not have an in-house lab, meaning that pet owners may have to wait for test results to come back from an external lab. This can take longer and delay treatment for your pet.
6. The Animal Medical Center
Pros:
Affordable pricing: The Animal Medical Center is known for offering low-cost blood tests, making it a great option for pet owners on a budget.
Convenient location: The clinic is located in a convenient and easily accessible location, which can be especially important for those with busy schedules.
Experienced staff: The veterinary team at The Animal Medical Center is highly trained and experienced, giving you peace of mind that your pet is in good hands.
Cons:
Long wait times: Some customers have reported long wait times at The Animal Medical Center, which can be a drawback for those with time constraints.
Limited services: While the clinic specializes in low-cost blood tests, it may not offer a full range of veterinary services, so you may need to seek care elsewhere for other medical needs.
Crowded environment: With its focus on affordability, The Animal Medical Center can sometimes become overcrowded, leading to a noisy and stressful environment for pets and their owners.
7. PetVet Clinic at Tractor Supply Co.
Pros:
Affordable prices: PetVet Clinic at Tractor Supply Co. offers low-cost blood tests, making it a great option for pet owners on a budget.
Convenient location: With locations at Tractor Supply Co. stores, it’s easy to find a PetVet Clinic near you.
Wide range of services: In addition to blood tests, PetVet Clinic also offers vaccinations, heartworm tests, and more.
Cons:
Limited hours: PetVet Clinic may have limited hours of operation, so be sure to check their schedule before you go.
No overnight care: If your pet needs overnight care, you may need to find a different clinic.
Basic equipment: PetVet Clinic has basic equipment for blood tests, so if you need a more advanced test, you may need to go elsewhere.
Prices:
In terms of prices, PetVet Clinic offers blood tests starting at around $40. This is significantly cheaper than some other veterinary clinics, making it a great option for pet owners who want to save money without sacrificing quality.
8. ASPCA Animal Hospital
Pros:
Affordable prices: The ASPCA Animal Hospital is known for offering low-cost veterinary services, including blood tests. This makes it a great option for pet owners who are on a tight budget.
Trustworthy: The ASPCA is a well-known organization that is dedicated to helping animals in need. This gives pet owners peace of mind knowing that their furry friend is in good hands.
Convenient location: The ASPCA Animal Hospital is located in many cities, making it easy for pet owners to access.
Cons:
Long wait times: Some pet owners have reported that they have had to wait a long time to be seen at the ASPCA Animal Hospital, which can be frustrating.
Limited services: While the ASPCA Animal Hospital offers basic veterinary services, it may not have the same level of expertise as a full-service veterinary clinic.
Prices:
In terms of prices, the ASPCA Animal Hospital typically charges around $50-$70 for a basic blood test, which is significantly lower than what many other veterinary clinics charge. So, if you’re looking to save money on your pet’s blood test, the ASPCA Animal Hospital might be just what the doctor ordered.
What can a vet tell from a blood test?
First and foremost, a blood test can help diagnose any underlying health conditions. If your pet is feeling under the weather, a blood test can help determine if there are any red flags in their blood work. This can include issues with liver and kidney function, anemia, or signs of infection.
Blood tests can also help monitor the effectiveness of any medications your pet may be taking. For example, if your pet has a chronic condition like diabetes, a blood test can show if their insulin levels are in check.
Moreover, blood tests can also give vets a glimpse into your pet’s overall health and vitality. For instance, they can check the levels of vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes in your pet’s blood. This can give them a better understanding of how well their body is functioning and if they need any dietary adjustments.
Blood tests aren’t just for sick pets. Regular blood work is recommended for all pets, as it helps establish a baseline for their health and can detect any issues early on. This way, if there are any changes in their blood work in the future, it will be easier to identify the problem and provide prompt treatment.
In a nutshell, a blood test can provide a wealth of information about your pet’s health. It’s like getting a check-up from the inside out. So, if your vet suggests a blood test for your pet, don’t hesitate to give the green light.
Understanding dog blood test results
Here’s a rundown of some of the most common tests and what they mean.
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
This test gives a snapshot of your dog’s overall health by looking at their red and white blood cells, platelets, and hemoglobin levels. If any of these numbers are outside the normal range, it could indicate an infection, inflammation, or a problem with your dog’s bone marrow.
Chemistry Panel
This test looks at your dog’s internal organs and checks their electrolyte levels, glucose, and liver and kidney function. Abnormal results could mean your dog is suffering from a disease or metabolic disorder.
Thyroid Panel
This test checks the levels of thyroid hormones in your dog’s blood. A low level of thyroid hormones can indicate hypothyroidism, while high levels can mean hyperthyroidism. Both conditions can have serious impacts on your dog’s health.
Coagulation Profile
This test measures your dog’s blood clotting ability and helps identify any bleeding disorders. If your dog has a tendency to bleed excessively, this test can help pinpoint the cause.
Heartworm Test
This test checks for the presence of heartworms in your dog’s blood. Heartworms are a serious and potentially life-threatening parasite, so it’s important to catch them early and treat them effectively.
Remember that these tests are just one piece of the puzzle. Your vet will take into account your dog’s overall health, age, breed, and any other relevant information when interpreting the results. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet.
Blood tests for dogs with diarrhea
Here are some of the most common blood tests that your veterinarian might recommend if your pooch is experiencing diarrhea:
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
This test measures the different types of cells in your dog’s blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This can help diagnose infections, anemia, and other conditions that may be causing the diarrhea.
Blood Chemistry Panel
This is a broad test that measures different levels of chemicals in your dog’s blood, including liver and kidney function, glucose levels, and electrolyte levels. This can help determine if the diarrhea is caused by a digestive or metabolic problem.
Fecal Parasite Test
This test examines a sample of your dog’s feces to see if there are any parasites or worms present. These can cause diarrhea and other digestive problems.
Pancreatic Lipase Test
If your veterinarian suspects that your dog’s diarrhea is being caused by an issue with their pancreas, this test can help determine if the pancreas is producing enough of the digestive enzyme lipase.
Intestinal Biopsy
In some cases, a sample of your dog’s intestine may be taken and examined under a microscope. This can help determine if there is any damage to the intestinal lining, which could be causing the diarrhea.
Remember, early detection and diagnosis of the underlying cause of your dog’s diarrhea can be the key to a speedy recovery. So, if your pup is feeling under the weather, don’t hesitate to have them checked out by a vet.
FAQs about blood tests for dogs cost
Here’s some helpful information about blood tests for dogs cost that should answer your most frequently asked questions.
What is the average cost of a blood test for a dog?
The cost of a blood test for a dog can vary depending on a variety of factors. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a basic blood test. However, the cost can increase depending on the specific tests that your veterinarian recommends.
What are some common blood tests that are performed on dogs?
There are a few different types of blood tests that are commonly performed on dogs. Some of the most common tests include:
Complete Blood Count (CBC) – This test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in your dog’s blood. It can help diagnose anemia, infections, and other health issues.
Chemistry Panel – This test measures a variety of different substances in your dog’s blood, such as electrolytes, liver enzymes, and kidney function. It can help diagnose diseases and monitor the effectiveness of treatments.
Thyroid Hormone Testing – This test measures the level of thyroid hormones in your dog’s blood. It can help diagnose hypothyroidism, a common condition in dogs that can cause weight gain, lethargy, and other symptoms.
Why does my dog need a blood test?
There are a variety of reasons why your dog may need a blood test. Some common reasons include:
Routine Wellness Checkups – Blood tests are often part of a routine checkup to make sure your dog is healthy and catch any potential health issues early.
Pre-Anesthetic Testing – Before your dog undergoes anesthesia for a surgery, blood tests may be recommended to make sure they are healthy enough for the procedure.
Monitoring Chronic Conditions – If your dog has a chronic health condition, such as diabetes or kidney disease, regular blood tests may be recommended to monitor their condition and adjust their treatment plan if necessary.
What should I do to prepare my dog for a blood test?
In most cases, your dog will not need any special preparation for a blood test. However, you may want to avoid feeding your dog for a few hours before the test, as food can affect some of the test results. Your veterinarian will give you specific instructions on how to prepare your dog for the test if necessary.
What should I expect during a blood test for my dog?
During a blood test, a small amount of blood will be drawn from your dog’s vein using a needle. The procedure is usually quick and relatively painless. Your veterinarian may recommend sedating your dog if they are nervous or difficult to handle, but in most cases, sedation is not necessary.
What should I do if my dog needs a blood test but I can’t afford it?
If you are unable to afford a blood test for your dog, talk to your veterinarian about your financial situation. They may be able to offer payment plans or suggest lower-cost options for testing. Additionally, some animal welfare organizations and non-profits offer financial assistance for veterinary care.
How long does it take to get the results of a blood test for a dog?
The amount of time it takes to get the results of a blood test for your dog can vary depending on the specific tests that were performed. Some basic tests may provide results within a few hours, while more complex tests may take several days. Your veterinarian will give you an estimated timeframe for when you can expect to receive the results.
Are there any risks associated with blood tests for dogs?
In general, blood tests for dogs are considered safe and pose minimal risks. However, some dogs may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the site where the blood was drawn. In rare cases, more serious complications may occur, such as infection or an allergic reaction to the needle or materials used during the test.
Can I interpret the results of my dog’s blood test on my own?
Interpreting the results of a blood test for your dog can be complicated, and it’s usually best to leave it to your veterinarian. They will be able to explain what the results mean and whether any further testing or treatment is necessary. Additionally, it’s important to remember that a blood test is just one piece of information that your veterinarian will use to assess your dog’s overall health.
How can I help my dog feel more comfortable during a blood test?
Some dogs may be nervous or anxious about having their blood drawn. To help your dog feel more comfortable, you can try:
Providing treats or praise before, during, and after the test to help distract them and reward good behavior
Using a gentle touch and speaking in a calm, soothing tone to help your dog feel at ease
Bringing a favorite toy or blanket to the appointment to help your dog feel more comfortable in the unfamiliar environment
What should I do if my dog has a reaction to a blood test?
If your dog experiences any unusual symptoms after a blood test, such as swelling or redness at the site where the blood was drawn, vomiting, or lethargy, contact your veterinarian right away. In rare cases, dogs may have an allergic reaction to the needle or materials used during the test, and prompt treatment is necessary to prevent complications.
Do I need to fast my dog before a blood test?
For some types of blood tests, your veterinarian may recommend that your dog fast for a certain amount of time before the test. This means that your dog should not eat or drink anything other than water for a specific period of time before the test. Fasting may be necessary to get accurate test results for certain tests such as a blood glucose test or a lipid profile. Your veterinarian will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for the blood test.
What happens during a blood test for a dog?
During a blood test for a dog, a small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in the dog’s leg or neck using a sterile needle. The procedure typically takes just a few minutes and is generally not painful. After the blood is collected, it is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Depending on the specific tests that are being performed, it may take several days to receive the results.
Why are blood tests for dogs important?
Blood tests for dogs are important because they can help identify potential health problems before they become more serious. Regular blood tests can help your veterinarian monitor your dog’s overall health, detect early signs of disease, and provide treatment before a condition worsens. Blood tests can also help monitor the effectiveness of treatments and medications.
How much does a blood test for a dog cost?
The cost of a blood test for a dog can vary depending on the type of test that is performed, the location of the veterinary clinic, and other factors. In general, basic blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) or a blood chemistry panel can range from $50 to $150. More specialized tests such as a thyroid function test or a heartworm test may cost more. It’s important to discuss the cost of the blood test with your veterinarian before the test is performed so that you can plan accordingly.
What types of blood tests can be performed on dogs?
There are many different types of blood tests that can be performed on dogs, depending on the specific health concerns that your veterinarian may have. Some common blood tests include:
Complete blood count (CBC) – This test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the dog’s blood.
Blood chemistry panel – This test measures various chemicals and enzymes in the dog’s blood, such as liver enzymes, kidney function, and electrolyte levels.
Thyroid function test – This test measures the level of thyroid hormones in the dog’s blood.
Heartworm test – This test checks for the presence of heartworm disease in the dog’s blood.
Blood glucose test – This test measures the level of glucose (sugar) in the dog’s blood.
Your veterinarian may recommend one or more of these tests depending on your dog’s specific health needs.
Can blood tests detect cancer in dogs?
Blood tests can sometimes detect certain types of cancer in dogs, but they are not always definitive. Some types of cancer, such as lymphoma, can cause changes in the blood that may be detected through a blood test. However, other types of cancer may not produce any abnormal blood results. If your veterinarian suspects that your dog may have cancer, they may recommend additional diagnostic tests such as imaging or a biopsy.
Can I request a specific blood test for my dog?
If you have a specific concern about your dog’s health and believe that a particular blood test may be helpful, you can discuss this with your veterinarian. They will be able to advise you on whether the test is appropriate for your dog and whether it is necessary to perform. It’s important to remember that your veterinarian is trained to determine the most appropriate diagnostic tests for your dog’s health needs.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
