Laboratory diagnostics offer vital information on the health of the horse. We recommend baseline annual blood work for all patients in an effort to stay ahead of disease and keep your horse in peak health.  The Athletic Horse recently updated our in-house blood machines to get the most accurate laboratory readings. Additionally, we partner with multiple labs across the country to serve most diagnostic laboratory needs. Some of the laboratory services we offer include:

• Hematology or Complete Blood Count (CBC) performed in house is utilized to assess the overall health of the horse. CBC markers can be indicative of underlying infection or anemia. 

• Blood Chemistry Analysis performed in house gives insight into the function of vital organs including the kidneys and liver as well as muscle function and break down. Electrolyte panels can also be analyzed for imbalances and hydration status.  

• Serum Amyloid A (SAA) is a hand-held, in-field test that can be performed within ten minutes of a blood draw. The highly sensitive test measures SAA protein which is often the first sign of underlying infection. 

• Selenium testing is particularly important in the Pacific Northwest. Selenium is vital for multiple biologic processes in the horse including immunity, recovery and metabolism. Although our region is known for being deficient in this important nutrient, it is not uncommon for horses to have high values of selenium from over supplementation. Furthermore, is is impossible to tell if a horse has high, low or adequate levels of dietary selenium without performing a blood test.

• Metabolic testing for PPID or IR can be especially useful for the management of older horses or equines prone to metabolic disorders. 

• Allergy Testing provides identification of potential environmental or dietary allergens insulting to your horse. After testing, custom desensitization treatments can be ordered to aid in the management of allergic reactions. 

• Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM), although uncommon in our region, can be a cause of neurologic deficits.  Accurate identification is crucial for prescribing appropriate treatment. 

• Histopathology, Virology, Culture and titer tests allow for accurate diagnosis of disease or infection.

• Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA or Coggins Test) is required annually for horses traveling across state lines (biannually for international travel). EIA/Coggins testing is only available to existing clients. Rush fees will apply if you require results to be reported within five business days.