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PREPARING YOUR PET FOR ROUTINE BLOOD COLLECTION
Why is it important to prepare my pet for blood collection?
Having your pet properly prepared before blood collection helps to ensure that test
results are as accurate and reliable as they can
be. Sometimes abnormal test results say more
about how the pet was prepared than about true
illness. Having confidence in the results avoids
unnecessary worry, and eliminates the need for
repeat testing to verify the results.
For some special tests, there may be specific
preparations that are essential for the success
of the test. These may involve specific fasting
periods,
withdrawal
of
medication,
or
administration of medication. If special tests are planned, your veterinarian will provide
the necessary details in before your appointment.
Any routine visit to the veterinarian may include collecting a blood sample, and if your
pet is not feeling well, it is even more likely that the veterinarian will want to take a blood
test. You may be able to save valuable time by having your pet properly prepared
before your visit.
How do I prepare my pet for routine blood collection?
1. The first step is to fast your pet before the appointment. If possible, take food away
(but not water) for 4 to 6 hours prior to the appointment.
This allows the pet to clear fats from the bloodstream
that may be present following eating. Fat in the blood
stream (called lipemia) may interfere with some blood
tests, making the results difficult to interpret
2. Be sure the pet has access to water. Even mild
dehydration may introduce changes in blood results, so
keeping the pet well hydrated, especially in warm
weather is important.
3. Avoid exercise or active play just prior to your visit, since either can introduce
changes into blood test results.
4. Try to keep your pet calm. This may be difficult if the pet is nervous or
frightened. Having your dog on a leash at all times helps to maintain
control, and reduces the opportunity for confrontation with other pets in
the waiting room. Having your cat in a cat carrier helps to make your pet
feel more secure and eliminates the risk of escape. Handling the animal
calmly and using a soothing tone of voice may help to reduce anxiety. If
the waiting room is busy, you may wish to let your pet wait in the car
(weather permitting) to reduce excitement.
5. Minimize stress. If your pet is highly excitable and the veterinarian suspects that this
may contribute to changes in the test results, you may be asked to bring your pet in at a
time when the clinic is quiet, as a way to minimize the stress associated with blood
collection.
SPECIAL PREPARATION FOR YOUR PET’S NEXT VISIT
Date of next appointment: _______________________________________
Pet’s Name: _____________________________________
Test to be performed: ______________________________________
Please follow these steps to prepare for your next visit to the veterinarian:
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This client information sheet is based on material written by Kristiina Ruotsalo, DVM, DVSc, Dip ACVP &
Margo S. Tant BSc, DVM, DVSc.
© Copyright 2004 Lifelearn Inc. Used with permission under license. February 17, 2016