The Comprehensive Role of Veterinary Laboratory Testing in Animal Health Management: Utilizing Diagnostic Assays, Hematology, and Chemistry Panels for Early Disease Detection, Monitoring Treatment Efficacy, and Public Health Surveillance
Veterinary laboratory testing is indispensable for diagnosing, treating, and monitoring diseases across companion, livestock, and exotic animals, providing objective biological data to guide clinical decisions. Routine tests, including complete blood counts (CBCs), serum chemistry panels, and parasitic screenings, help practitioners assess organ function and identify underlying infections or systemic disorders early.
Beyond individual animal care, these labs play a crucial public health role in zoonotic disease surveillance, tracking pathogens that can transmit between animals and humans. Continuous advancements in molecular diagnostics and rapid point-of-care tests are enhancing diagnostic speed and accessibility, leading to faster interventions and improved animal welfare outcomes.