Pet Diagnostics in San Francisco
Pet diagnostics in San Francisco at Ocean Avenue Veterinary Hospital combine in-house laboratory testing, digital imaging, and advanced cytology to deliver timely results for both routine and emergency evaluations. Our team uses diagnostic findings to guide every care decision, from wellness assessments to critical cases. With on-site analyzers, digital radiography, ultrasound, and cytology, most results are available the same day. We are open 24 hours a day for both scheduled and urgent diagnostic visits.
Digital X-Ray for Dogs and Cats
Digital radiography provides immediate, high-resolution images with minimal radiation exposure. At OAVH, X-rays evaluate bones, the chest cavity, abdomen, and foreign objects. Digital technology enables rapid processing, easy specialist sharing, and enhanced image clarity. Radiographs detect fractures, arthritis, heart disease, pneumonia, bladder stones, and intestinal obstructions. Results are available immediately after imaging.
Abdominal Ultrasound
Ultrasound provides detailed, real-time visualization of internal organs without radiation. Our team uses abdominal ultrasound to evaluate the liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, intestines, adrenal glands, and lymph nodes. This tool detects masses, fluid accumulation, organ abnormalities, and foreign bodies. Ultrasound also guides needle-based sampling for cytology and helps stage suspected cancer. Note: abdominal ultrasound on a scheduled or non-urgent basis is provided by a visiting veterinary specialist. Pre-booking is required.
Blood Tests and In-House Laboratory
Comprehensive blood testing reveals critical information about organ function, immune status, and systemic health. At OAVH, our in-house analyzers run complete blood counts, blood chemistry panels, and specialized tests with results available within the hour for urgent cases. Blood testing detects kidney disease, liver conditions, diabetes, anemia, and infections, often before symptoms appear. Annual blood panels are recommended for adult pets and biannual panels for seniors.
Urinalysis, Urine Culture, and Fecal Testing
Urinalysis assesses urinary tract health, kidney function, metabolic status, and bladder crystal composition. When a urinary infection is suspected, urine culture identifies the specific bacteria present and determines the most appropriate veterinary product for management. Fecal testing detects roundworms, hookworms, giardia, coccidia, and other intestinal parasites. Annual fecal screening is recommended for all dogs and cats, particularly those with outdoor exposure.
Cytology: FNA, Skin Scraping, and Ear and Skin Cytology
Fine needle aspiration cytology collects cellular samples from masses and enlarged lymph nodes for microscopic evaluation. This minimally invasive procedure often requires no sedation and provides initial results quickly. Skin scraping identifies mites, fungal elements, and parasitic conditions including mange. Ear and skin cytology identifies bacteria, yeast, inflammatory cells, and abnormal cells to guide targeted management.
Biopsy: Histopathology and Urgent Biopsy
Surgical biopsies provide definitive cellular evaluation through microscopic examination of tissue architecture. All biopsy samples are submitted to veterinary pathologists for full histopathology. For urgent cases, same-day biopsy collection is available when a rapid result is needed to guide critical care decisions. Rush pathology is available through our reference laboratory partners for time-sensitive results. Routine biopsy cases are referenced to this page for scheduling.
Cardiac, Hormonal, and Infectious Disease Testing
Cardiac ProBNP testing detects early heart muscle stress before clinical signs appear. Echocardiograms, provided by a visiting veterinary specialist with pre-booking required, assess heart structure and function. Addison's and Cushing's disease testing uses ACTH stimulation and low-dose dexamethasone suppression protocols. FIV and FeLV testing for cats provides rapid in-house results. Pancreatitis-specific lipase testing, titer testing, respiratory PCR, culture and sensitivity, and serum allergy testing complete our diagnostic range.
FAQs
Yes. Fasting for eight to twelve hours before an abdominal ultrasound improves image quality. Food in the stomach and intestines can obscure views of important structures. Water is generally permitted. Call (415) 586-5327 when booking to confirm specific preparation instructions.
In-house diagnostics at Ocean Avenue Veterinary Hospital in San Francisco. Walk in any time for urgent testing or call (415) 586-5327 to schedule. Same-day results available for most in-house panels. Open 24 hours a day.