Early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have. At Hayfield Animal Hospital, we offer complete in-house pet diagnostics in Alexandria, VA, with advanced equipment and an on-site laboratory. That means faster answers, lower costs, and — most importantly — no waiting overnight for results. The sooner we have a diagnosis, the sooner your pet can start feeling like themselves again.
Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters
Some health problems, like a broken bone, are easy to spot. Others hide deep inside — dysfunction in internal organs, or conditions that show no obvious symptoms at all. That’s where diagnostic testing makes the difference. A prompt, accurate diagnosis lets us begin treatment as quickly as possible, minimizing health problems and getting your pet back to feeling comfortable and energetic.
In-House Laboratory
Our on-site laboratory lets us perform blood screens, pre-anesthetic bloodwork, urinalysis, and many other tests right here, instead of sending samples to an outside lab. Pet diagnostics we provide in-house include:
- Complete blood counts
- Serum chemistry and general chemistries
- Liver enzyme screening
- Pancreatic evaluation
- Renal (kidney) profiles
- Blood gases
- Stool and urine analysis
- Heartworm and tick-borne disease screening
- FeLV/FIV screening for cats
- Parvovirus screening for dogs
- Cytology
While our on-site range is extensive, some cases call for specialized testing beyond our scope. When that happens, we’re glad to send bloodwork or other samples to a trusted outside lab that reports results back to us.
Digital Radiology (X-Rays)
Radiographs are often the first test we use to evaluate a pet. Hayfield uses digital X-ray technology, which produces higher-contrast, more accurate images than traditional film. Because the images are so precise, our team can take fewer of them — meaning less handling and discomfort for your pet, and less radiation exposure too. X-rays can detect a wide range of issues, including skeletal fractures, soft tissue damage, foreign bodies, and dental disease. Orthopedic and contrast studies require the patient to stay completely still, so light sedation is sometimes needed; recovery is usually quick.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a powerful, completely painless imaging tool that creates a real-time picture of your pet’s internal structures. It works by sending high-frequency sound waves that reflect off internal organs, with a small probe held gently against the skin to capture the returning signals. It’s especially useful for examining abdominal organs like the stomach, kidneys, liver, spleen, and gallbladder — and it’s gentle enough for pets in sensitive situations, such as pregnancy. An ultrasound of the heart, called an echocardiogram, gives us precise details about heart valves, blood flow, chamber size, and contractions. Because patients need to stay still, some pets may need light sedation.
Digital Dental X-Rays
Digital dental X-rays let us find problems beneath the gum line, where many of your pet’s oral issues begin and where they’d otherwise be invisible during an exam.
If you think your pet may have a health problem, or you have questions about our diagnostic services, call us at 703-971-2127 to schedule an appointment.