Diagnostic Services

Cascade Hospital for Animals is a leader in diagnostic technology for the West Michigan area. In addition to a fully-equipped on-site medical laboratory, we offer the diagnostic services of radiography, electrocardiogram, ultrasound and endoscopy. Through our telemedicine networks, we are able to obtain the opinions of specialists all over the country on procedures done in our office. 

Blood Testing

A series of blood chemistry tests can often be the key to diagnosing a range of emerging conditions. Bloodwork can help with the early detection of problems in the kidneys, liver, heart and thyroid, as well as early diagnosing of diabetes and hormonal conditions. Pets can't tell us the history of their symptoms and blood work often helps to fill in the blanks.

Allergy Testing

A pet's chronic ear infections, hot spots or coat problems can often be the result of allergies. Like humans, pets can develop allergies to foods, chemicals in the environment, pollens, molds and even flea bites. Correct diagnosis and treatment of these allergies can make life much more enjoyable for both you and your pet.

Ultrasound

Use of ultrasound equipment provides advanced diagnostic information through examination of the internal structure of specific organs. It is often used along with bloodwork and radiography to get a full picture of the situation. A key benefit of the ultrasound is its non-invasive nature, although some pets may need to be sedated for examination. Typical applications of the ultrasound technology include; ultrasound guided biopsy, early pregnancy detection, evaluation of the heart, detection of masses, growths and the evaluation in positions not possible with x-ray.

Endoscopy

Endoscopy is the use of fiber optics and specials lenses to transmit light to and images back from a location within the body. Diagnostic or therapeutic procedures can be performed utilizing the resulting images. The doctor can obtain access to difficult sites, magnify the images viewed, and document and store the images for future review. Use of a video screen during the procedure allows multiple individuals to view the area. The endoscope can be used in the abdominal cavity, chest cavity, stomach, colon, esophagus, nose/nasal sinuses, trachea and bronchi, urinary bladder, vagina, urethra, ear canal, and joints. It allows our veterinarians to explore the body cavity in question for the ultimate in diagnosis. In addition, surgical procedures can be performed such as retrieval of foreign bodies, growth removal, some joint surgeries, and taking tissue samples for biopsy or culture for infectious organisms. These procedures are done under general anesthesia. We believe use of endoscopy, in the appropriate situations, is the ultimate in care for your pet. It is much less invasive than normal exploratory surgery, resulting in less post operative pain and follow-up pain medication, a faster recovery period, and a more cosmetically appealing result (smaller scar).

Digital Radiology

Digital Radiology (x-rays) provide a faster and clearer alternative to traditional x-ray film images.  This allows us to diagnose and treat more quickly, as we have an image in a matter of seconds versus minutes.  Digital x-rays allow us to see inside a patient non-invasively, with lower exposure to radiation than non-digital methods.  Our doctors are also able to review our findings with our clients on a computer monitor in the exam room, where we are able to manipulate the image for a clearer understanding of our findings.

Exceptional Medicine…Compassionate Care

We are open 7 days a week to serve your needs and those of your pet.  Doctors' hours are by appointment only.