Veterinary Diagnostics Explained: Digital X-Rays, Ultrasound and In-House Lab Testing

When your pet is not feeling well, they cannot tell you where it hurts. Veterinary diagnostics give our team the answers your pet cannot. At CBS Animal Hospital in Conception Bay South, we use digital x-rays, ultrasound and in-house laboratory testing to find out what is going on quickly and accurately, so treatment can start sooner.

Why Accurate Veterinary Diagnostics Matter

An accurate diagnosis is the foundation of good treatment. Without it, care can become guesswork. With the right diagnostic tools, our veterinarians can identify a wide range of conditions, from routine ailments to more complex diseases, and build a treatment plan around what your pet actually needs.

Diagnostics are used in many situations, including:

• Sick visits, when your pet is vomiting, limping, not eating or acting unusual
• Wellness exams, to set baseline values and catch early changes
• Pre-anesthetic testing before surgery
• Monitoring ongoing conditions and checking how well treatment is working
• Urgent care situations where answers are needed fast

Digital X-Rays (Radiography)

Radiography remains a cornerstone of veterinary imaging. Our digital radiography equipment captures detailed images of your pet's internal structures, helping us detect fractures, foreign bodies and other abnormalities. Digital x-rays are a key part of how we assess injuries, digestive problems and many other concerns.

Dental X-Rays

Much of the dental disease in pets happens below the gum line, where it cannot be seen during a regular exam. Our hospital is equipped with dental x-ray technology, and every dental procedure includes a full set of dental x-rays so we can find and treat hidden problems. Learn more on our dentistry page.

Ultrasound Imaging

Ultrasound offers real-time views of your pet's internal organs, showing both their structure and how they are functioning. It helps us identify tumours, cysts and other soft tissue abnormalities and guides our decisions on diagnosis and treatment.

In-House Laboratory Testing

Our in-house laboratory is equipped to analyze blood, urine and other samples. From complete blood counts to more specialized tests, in-house testing delivers rapid results that help us make informed decisions about your pet's care, often during the same visit.

Common lab tests include:

• Complete blood counts
• Blood chemistry to assess organ function
• Urine analysis
• Fecal examinations for intestinal parasites

Clear Results and a Plan You Understand

We know waiting for test results can be stressful. Our team works to process diagnostic tests efficiently so you get timely reports. Our veterinarians take the time to explain results in detail, answer your questions and work with you on the most effective treatment approach. Whether the next step is medical management, surgery or supportive care, we build a personalized plan and provide ongoing monitoring and follow-up to make sure your pet is responding well.

Experienced, Accredited Care in Conception Bay South

CBS Animal Hospital is 100% veterinary owned and operated, founded by Dr. Lesley Steele in 2013, and accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) and the Newfoundland and Labrador College of Veterinarians. If your pet needs care beyond our general practice, we can refer you to a board-certified veterinary specialist and work closely with them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Veterinary Diagnostics

What diagnostic services does CBS Animal Hospital offer?

We offer digital x-rays, dental x-rays, ultrasound imaging and in-house laboratory testing of blood, urine and other samples.

Why would my healthy pet need blood work?

Blood work during a wellness visit can reveal early changes in organ function and gives us baseline values to compare against as your pet ages.

What happens if my pet needs a specialist?

If your pet needs specialized care beyond our general practice, we can refer you to a board-certified veterinary specialist and collaborate closely with them.

Book a Diagnostic Appointment

If your pet is showing signs that something is not right, getting answers early can make a real difference. Learn more about our veterinary diagnostic services, book an appointment, or call us at (709) 240-2288.