7 Free or Low Cost Nearby Blood Work for Dogs

The prices of dog blood work can widely vary. While it may seem like a complicated and expensive procedure, in reality, the price is reasonable and pet owners should not be afraid to take their pets to the vet.

How much does blood work for dogs cost?

The cost of dog blood tests can vary widely depending on the specific tests that are being performed and the location of the veterinary clinic. On average, a basic blood panel (also known as a CBC or complete blood count) will cost between $50 and $100. This type of test will typically include a measurement of the number of red and white blood cells, as well as the levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets in the blood.

More comprehensive blood tests, such as a biochemistry panel, will typically cost between $100 and $200. These tests will typically include measurements of organ function, such as liver and kidney function, as well as the levels of glucose, electrolytes, and proteins in the blood.

If your dog is experiencing specific symptoms or has a known medical condition, your veterinarian may recommend additional blood tests. For example, a thyroid test will typically cost between $50 and $100, and a test for tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease will typically cost between $50 and $150.

It’s also worth noting that some veterinary clinics may offer bundled test packages at a discounted rate. Therefore, it’s important to discuss the various test options with your veterinarian to determine which tests are necessary for your dog and to determine the total cost.

Nearby low-cost blood work for dogs

There are several options for free or low-cost blood work for dogs that may be available near you.

1. Banfield Pet Hospital

Pros:

Wide network: Banfield has a large network of veterinary clinics located throughout the country, so there’s a good chance there’s a location near you.

Comprehensive services: Banfield offers a wide range of services for dogs, including blood work, vaccinations, dental care, and more.

Wellness plans: Banfield offers wellness plans that can help you save money on preventative care services like blood work, as well as other veterinary services.

Experienced staff: Banfield employs experienced veterinarians and technicians who can provide high-quality care for your dog.

Cons:

Cost: While Banfield’s services are generally less expensive than some other veterinary clinics, they may still be more expensive than you’re comfortable with.

Wellness plans: While Banfield’s wellness plans can be a good way to save money on preventative care services, they can also lock you into a long-term commitment that may not be right for your situation.

Limited services: While Banfield offers a wide range of services, they may not offer all of the services you need for your dog’s specific health issues.

Cost:

The cost of dog blood work at Banfield Pet Hospital will vary depending on the specific tests your dog needs, as well as the location of the clinic. Generally, the cost of blood work ranges from $80 to $150. However, if you’re enrolled in one of Banfield’s wellness plans, you may be able to save money on blood work and other veterinary services.

2. Vetco Total Care at Petco

Pros:

Convenient Locations: One of the biggest advantages of using Vetco Total Care is its convenient locations at Petco stores. With over 1,500 Petco stores across the US, you’re likely to find one near you.

Affordable Prices: Vetco Total Care offers low-cost dog blood work, making it an affordable option for pet owners on a tight budget. The prices for blood work start at $68, which is significantly lower than what you’d pay at a traditional veterinary clinic.

Comprehensive Services: In addition to blood work, Vetco Total Care offers a range of services, including vaccinations, microchipping, and wellness exams. This makes it a one-stop shop for all your pet’s basic healthcare needs.

Trained Professionals: Vetco Total Care is staffed by trained professionals, including licensed veterinarians and veterinary technicians. They’re knowledgeable and experienced in handling dogs of all breeds and sizes, ensuring your furry friend is in good hands.

Cons:

Limited Services: While Vetco Total Care offers comprehensive services, it’s important to note that it’s not a full-service veterinary clinic. If your dog requires specialized care or surgery, you’ll need to visit a traditional veterinary clinic.

Limited Availability: Vetco Total Care is only available at select Petco stores, which may not be convenient for all pet owners. You’ll need to check the availability of services at your local Petco store before scheduling an appointment.

Limited Appointment Times: Vetco Total Care operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and appointments are limited to specific days and times. This may not be ideal for pet owners with a busy schedule, as they may need to wait in line for an extended period.

Cost:

As mentioned earlier, Vetco Total Care offers affordable prices for dog blood work. The prices start at $68, which includes a comprehensive blood panel that checks for common health issues such as anemia, liver disease, and kidney disease. Additional tests, such as heartworm tests, can be added for an additional fee.

See also  7 Free or Low Cost Nearby Dog Leg Amputation

3. PetSmart vet clinic

Pros:

Convenient Locations: PetSmart has several locations across the US, making it easy to find a clinic near you.

Affordable Prices: Compared to other veterinary clinics, PetSmart Vet Clinic’s prices are often lower, which can be beneficial for pet owners on a budget.

Experienced Veterinarians: The veterinarians at PetSmart Vet Clinic are licensed and experienced, so you can feel confident that your pet is receiving quality care.

Wide Range of Services: PetSmart Vet Clinic offers a variety of services, including blood work, vaccinations, and wellness exams, making it a one-stop shop for your pet’s healthcare needs.

Cons:

Limited Services: While PetSmart Vet Clinic offers a wide range of services, they may not have all the equipment or expertise needed to diagnose or treat more complex health issues.

Long Wait Times: Due to the popularity of PetSmart Vet Clinic, wait times can be longer than at other veterinary clinics, so be prepared to spend some time waiting with your pet.

Limited Availability: Not all PetSmart locations have a veterinary clinic on-site, so you’ll need to check to make sure that the location near you offers veterinary services.

Costs:

The cost of dog blood work at PetSmart Vet Clinic can vary depending on the specific tests that are needed. However, their prices are often lower than other veterinary clinics. For example, a basic blood panel can cost between $55-$110, while a more comprehensive panel can cost up to $200.

4. VCA Animal Hospitals

Pros:

Wide Availability: With over 900 hospitals in North America, VCA Animal Hospitals are one of the most widely available veterinary chains. This means that regardless of where you are located, there is likely a VCA hospital near you, making it convenient to get your pet’s blood work done.

Experienced Professionals: VCA Animal Hospitals employ a team of licensed veterinarians and technicians who are well-versed in animal health care. This means that your dog’s blood work will be handled by experienced professionals who understand the nuances of animal health.

Advanced Technology: VCA Animal Hospitals use advanced laboratory technology to perform blood work on your dog. This ensures that the results are accurate and reliable, allowing your veterinarian to make informed decisions about your pet’s health.

Cons:

Limited Services: While VCA Animal Hospitals offer a wide range of veterinary services, their focus is primarily on preventative care. This means that their blood work services may be limited in terms of the types of tests they can perform.

Cost: While VCA Animal Hospitals are generally considered to be a budget-friendly option for pet owners, the cost of blood work can still be relatively high. It’s important to keep this in mind when considering VCA as an option for your pet’s blood work.

Cost:

The cost of dog blood work at VCA Animal Hospitals can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of test required, the location of the hospital, and the age and breed of your dog. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for blood work at a VCA hospital.

5. BluePearl Veterinary Partners

Pros:

Experienced Veterinarians: BluePearl Veterinary Partners has a team of experienced veterinarians who are knowledgeable in various fields of veterinary medicine. This means that your dog’s blood work will be handled by professionals who have the expertise to provide accurate results.

Advanced Technology: BluePearl Veterinary Partners uses advanced technology to perform blood tests on dogs. They have state-of-the-art equipment that can detect diseases and other health issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. This ensures that your dog’s blood work results are accurate and reliable.

Quick Results: BluePearl Veterinary Partners offers quick turnaround times for blood work results. This means that you won’t have to wait for days or weeks to get the results of your dog’s blood work. This is especially important if your dog has a health condition that requires immediate attention.

Cons:

High Cost: While BluePearl Veterinary Partners offers advanced technology and experienced veterinarians, their services can be quite expensive. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider other low-cost options for your dog’s blood work.

Limited Locations: BluePearl Veterinary Partners has limited locations across the United States. This means that if you don’t live near one of their facilities, you may have to travel a significant distance to get your dog’s blood work done.

Cost:

The cost of dog blood work at BluePearl Veterinary Partners can vary depending on the specific tests that are being performed. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a complete blood panel. However, additional tests or procedures may increase the cost.

6. VIP Petcare at Pet Supplies Plus

Pros:

Convenient location: With VIP Petcare operating at Pet Supplies Plus stores, you’ll likely find one close to your home.

Low-cost services: VIP Petcare offers affordable pricing on their services, including blood work.

Easy booking: You can book an appointment online, making it simple and quick to schedule an appointment for your furry friend.

Experienced staff: VIP Petcare employs licensed veterinarians and technicians who are knowledgeable and skilled in providing quality care to your pet.

Cons:

Limited availability: VIP Petcare only operates at select Pet Supplies Plus locations, so it may not be available in your area.

Limited services: While VIP Petcare does offer a range of services, they may not offer all the tests or procedures your dog needs.

Crowded waiting areas: Since VIP Petcare is located inside a pet store, the waiting area can be crowded and noisy, which can be stressful for your pet.

Cost:

The cost of dog blood work at VIP Petcare varies depending on the type of test your dog needs. However, their prices are generally lower than what you would pay at a traditional veterinary clinic. For example, a basic blood test may cost around $60, while a more comprehensive blood panel may cost around $120.

7. PetVet Clinic at Tractor Supply Co.

Pros:

Cost-effective: One of the biggest advantages of using PetVet Clinic at Tractor Supply Co. for dog blood work is that they tend to be more affordable than many other veterinary clinics. This can be a huge relief for pet owners who are on a tight budget or simply looking to save some money.

Convenient: Another benefit of using PetVet Clinic is that they are often located inside Tractor Supply Co. stores, making them easily accessible and convenient for many pet owners.

See also  7 Free or Low Cost Nearby Cat Blockage Surgery

Experienced staff: Despite the lower prices, PetVet Clinic employs experienced veterinary professionals who can provide high-quality care for your dog. This can help ensure that your dog’s blood work is accurate and reliable.

Cons:

Limited services: While PetVet Clinic is a great option for many routine veterinary needs, they may not offer as many services as a traditional veterinary clinic. This means that if your dog has complex medical needs or requires specialized testing, you may need to seek care elsewhere.

Wait times: Because PetVet Clinics are often popular with pet owners looking to save money, you may experience longer wait times than you would at a traditional veterinary clinic.

Limited hours: PetVet Clinics may not be open as late or as early as traditional veterinary clinics, which could make it difficult to schedule appointments that work with your schedule.

Cost:

The cost of dog blood work at PetVet Clinic at Tractor Supply Co. can vary depending on the specific tests needed and the location of the clinic. However, in general, prices tend to be lower than what you would pay at a traditional veterinary clinic.

What can a dog blood test tell you?

A dog blood test can provide information about a dog’s overall health, including their organ function, electrolyte levels, and blood cell counts. Some specific things that a dog blood test can reveal include:

Kidney function: Blood tests can measure the levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), which can indicate how well the kidneys are working. Elevated levels of these substances can indicate kidney disease.

Liver function: Blood tests can measure the levels of enzymes and proteins that are produced by the liver. Elevated levels of these substances can indicate liver disease.

Blood cell counts: Blood tests can measure the number and types of different blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Abnormal levels of these cells can indicate various health conditions, such as anemia or infection.

Electrolyte levels: Blood tests can measure the levels of electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride, which are important for maintaining proper body function. Abnormal electrolyte levels can indicate various health conditions, such as kidney or heart disease.

Hormone levels: Blood tests can measure the levels of hormones produced by the endocrine system. Abnormal levels of hormones can indicate various health conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disease.

What cancers are detected by blood tests in dogs?

Blood tests can be used to detect several types of cancer in dogs. Some of the most commonly detected cancers using blood tests include:

Leukemia: Leukemia is a cancer of the blood cells and is most commonly found in older dogs. Blood tests can detect an increase in white blood cells, which is a sign of leukemia.

Lymphoma: Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system and can be found in dogs of all ages. Blood tests can detect an increase in lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell.

Hemangiosarcoma: Hemangiosarcoma is a cancer of the blood vessels and is most commonly found in older dogs. Blood tests can detect anemia, which is a decrease in red blood cells, and thrombocytopenia, which is a decrease in platelets.

Mast cell tumors: Mast cell tumors are a type of skin cancer that can occur in dogs of all ages. Blood tests can detect an increase in histamine and tryptase, which are substances released by mast cells.

Multiple myeloma: Multiple myeloma is a cancer of the plasma cells and is most commonly found in older dogs. Blood tests can detect an increase in protein levels, which is a sign of multiple myeloma.

FAQs about dog blood work near me

To help you understand what dog blood work is and why it’s important, we’ve compiled a list of FAQs about dog blood work near me.

What is Dog Blood Work?

Dog blood work, also known as a blood test, is a medical procedure that involves drawing blood from your dog’s body to analyze it in a laboratory. The blood sample is examined for any abnormalities or imbalances in your dog’s blood cells, electrolytes, enzymes, and other components that could indicate an underlying health problem.

Why is Dog Blood Work Important?

Dog blood work is essential in identifying and diagnosing various health conditions in your furry friend. By examining your dog’s blood, veterinarians can determine if your dog has any infections, parasites, anemia, organ dysfunction, or other issues that may require medical attention. Early detection through blood work can also help to prevent more serious health problems down the line.

When Should I Consider Dog Blood Work for my Dog?

Dog blood work may be recommended for various reasons. Some common reasons include regular wellness checks, pre-surgical evaluations, monitoring chronic conditions, evaluating unexplained symptoms, or following up after treatment for a health condition.

Where Can I Get Dog Blood Work Near Me?

You can get dog blood work done at your local veterinary clinic or animal hospital. Most clinics have on-site laboratories where they can analyze blood samples, while some may send the samples to an outside laboratory for testing.

How is Dog Blood Work Performed?

During the blood work procedure, a veterinary technician or veterinarian will take a blood sample from your dog. This is usually done by inserting a needle into your dog’s vein, often in their leg or neck. The procedure is relatively quick and should not cause any significant discomfort to your dog.

How Should I Prepare my Dog for Blood Work?

There are a few things you can do to prepare your dog for blood work. First, make sure your dog is calm and relaxed. Bring along some treats or toys to keep them distracted and happy. It’s also important to fast your dog for 8-12 hours before the procedure, as food can affect the results of the blood test.

What Should I Expect After Dog Blood Work?

After your dog’s blood work, you can expect to receive a call from your veterinarian to discuss the results. Depending on the findings, your veterinarian may recommend further testing, treatment, or follow-up visits.

Is Dog Blood Work Safe?

Yes, dog blood work is generally considered safe for most dogs. However, as with any medical procedure, there may be some risks involved, such as infection, bleeding, or bruising at the site of the blood draw. Your veterinarian will take the necessary precautions to minimize these risks and ensure the safety and comfort of your dog.

How Long Does it Take to Get Dog Blood Work Results?

The amount of time it takes to get results from dog blood work can vary depending on the specific tests being performed and the laboratory processing the samples. In general, basic blood work panels can produce results within a few hours to a day, while more specialized tests may take several days to a week. Your veterinarian will give you an estimated timeline for when you can expect to receive the results and will follow up with you to discuss the findings and any necessary next steps.

See also  5 Free or Low Cost Nearby Dog Skin Tag Removal

What Does Dog Blood Work Cost?

The cost of dog blood work can vary depending on the type of test being performed, the laboratory used, and other factors. Generally, expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a basic blood work panel. More comprehensive panels or specialized tests may cost more. Be sure to ask your veterinarian for a cost estimate before proceeding with the test.

Do I Need to Make an Appointment for Dog Blood Work?

Yes, you will need to make an appointment with your veterinarian or local animal hospital to have your dog’s blood work done. It’s a good idea to call ahead and schedule an appointment, as some clinics may have limited availability or require specific preparations before the procedure.

Can I Request a Copy of my Dog’s Blood Work Results?

Yes, you have the right to request a copy of your dog’s blood work results from your veterinarian. You may want to keep a copy for your records or share the results with another veterinarian or specialist if needed. Your veterinarian should be able to provide you with a printed or digital copy of the results upon request.

What Should I Do if My Dog is Afraid of Blood Work?

If your dog is afraid of blood work, there are a few things you can do to help ease their anxiety. First, try to keep them calm and relaxed by using treats, toys, or soothing words. You may also want to consider using a mild sedative or having the blood work done under anesthesia to help keep your dog calm and comfortable.

Can Dog Blood Work Detect Cancer?

In some cases, dog blood work may detect early signs of cancer. Abnormalities in blood cell counts, liver function, and other indicators may suggest that your dog has cancer or is at risk of developing it. However, blood work is not a definitive diagnostic tool for cancer, and further testing may be required to confirm a diagnosis.

How Often Should I Get Dog Blood Work Done?

The frequency of dog blood work depends on several factors, such as your dog’s age, overall health, and any underlying medical conditions. In general, most veterinarians recommend annual blood work as part of a routine wellness exam for adult dogs. Puppies and senior dogs may require more frequent blood work to monitor their health.

What Happens if My Dog’s Blood Work Results are Abnormal?

If your dog’s blood work results are abnormal, your veterinarian may recommend further testing or treatment to address any underlying health issues. Depending on the specific findings, treatment may include medication, dietary changes, or lifestyle modifications to improve your dog’s overall health and well-being.

What Should I Do if My Dog Needs Fasting Blood Work?

If your dog needs fasting blood work, you will need to withhold food for a certain period of time before the test. This helps ensure accurate results by preventing food from affecting your dog’s blood sugar or other indicators. Your veterinarian will give you specific instructions on how long your dog should fast before the test and may recommend that you schedule the appointment for early in the morning to minimize the fasting period.

What Types of Tests are Included in a Basic Dog Blood Work Panel?

A basic dog blood work panel typically includes a complete blood count (CBC) and a chemistry panel. The CBC measures various components of your dog’s blood, such as red and white blood cell counts, hemoglobin, and platelets. The chemistry panel measures various indicators of your dog’s organ function, such as liver enzymes, kidney function, and electrolyte levels.

Can I Give My Dog Food or Water Before Blood Work?

For most types of blood work, you will need to fast your dog for a certain period of time before the test. This means withholding food and, in some cases, water as well. Your veterinarian will give you specific instructions on how long your dog should fast before the test and whether or not you can give them water during the fasting period. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

Is Dog Blood Work Covered by Pet Insurance?

Whether or not dog blood work is covered by pet insurance depends on the specific policy and provider you have. Some pet insurance policies may cover blood work as part of routine wellness care or for diagnosing certain medical conditions. However, it’s important to review your policy carefully and talk to your provider to understand what is and is not covered under your plan.

Is Dog Blood Work Painful?

Dog blood work should not be painful for your furry friend. While the blood draw itself may cause a brief sensation of discomfort, it is typically quick and relatively painless. Your veterinarian may use a small needle to draw the blood from your dog’s vein and may apply pressure or a bandage to the site to prevent bleeding. Most dogs tolerate blood work well and are back to their normal activities shortly after the test.

What Are Some Signs That My Dog May Need Blood Work?

There are several signs that your dog may need blood work, such as lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in urination or defecation. Additionally, if your dog is undergoing treatment for a medical condition, blood work may be necessary to monitor their response to the treatment and adjust their medication as needed. If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or health, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about whether blood work may be needed.

HELP US PUT FOOD ON THE TABLE

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to Top