When a vet investigates an illness, there are many tools that are utilised to determine the source of the problem. The investigation is a process of finding information or clues that can lead to solving the puzzle of the illness or injury.
Firstly, the accurate description of the problem from the owner is crucial to directing the investigation. We may ask a whole heap of questions to give us a good base to work from.
Secondly, the clinical examination is where we check the animal out from the tip of the nose to the tip of the tail. Sometimes this will give us the answer. In the more complex cases, it will lead to a plan on how to solve the puzzle.
At this point, there are numerous diagnostic tests available to us that will add to our information base to help us to proceed. Many of these diagnostic tests are performed right here in our clinic.
For example, taking a radiograph or performing an ultrasound may be required. Our highly trained vets and nurses perform these procedures on a daily basis and our equipment is continually upgraded to ensure we have the best technology possible.
Another source of information for a sick animal is to perform blood and urine analysis. Once again, we are able to do this right here in our clinic. Our blood analysis machine is the same machine used by NASA in their space stations in fact!
Even a simple ear infection may require examination under the microscope to determine the type of infection present and therefore the most likely antibiotic to fix the problem.
If further laboratory testing is required, the samples are couriered to an external laboratory where pathologists are able to perform additional tests.
We are proud and extremely lucky to be able to provide a streamlined and efficient process to try to assist any ill or injured animal. While not all investigations are easy and straightforward, having the tools in the diagnostic tool box right in our clinic makes the whole process less stressful for both owners and our vets and nurses.
