Veterinary Reference Lab Testing, Springfield PA

Along with our in-house testing, we work with a full-service reference laboratory for specialized tests that aren't practical to run in the hospital.

Reference lab testing gives us access to a wide range of bloodwork, hormone tests, infectious disease screens and pathology, with results reviewed by our doctors and explained to you.

Tests Your Vet May Send to a Reference Laboratory

In-house tests are ideal when we need fast answers during a visit, such as when a pet is sick or about to have anesthesia. Some tests require specialized equipment, larger panels or a board-certified pathologist, so your vet may recommend sending samples out. Often we use both: quick in-house results to guide care today, and reference lab tests for a more complete picture. Examples include:

Hormone tests for thyroid and adrenal disorders
Infectious disease panels, including tick-borne illnesses
Urine and bacterial cultures to choose the right antibiotic
Biopsies and lumps examined by a pathologist
Allergy testing and specialized organ function tests
Medication level monitoring for certain long-term treatments

What to Expect When Your Pet's Sample Goes to the Lab

Most samples, such as blood, urine, stool or tissue, are collected during a regular visit. Your vet may ask you to fast your pet beforehand for certain blood tests, so check with us when you book. The sample is carefully labeled, packaged and picked up by the laboratory.

Turnaround time depends on the test. Many routine results come back within a day or two, while cultures, biopsies and specialized tests can take longer. When results arrive, a veterinarian reviews them alongside your pet's exam findings and history. We'll contact you to explain what the results mean and talk through any next steps, from monitoring to treatment or further testing.

Questions about Full Reference Laboratory?

Call us or book an appointment online, and our team will help you decide on the next step for your pet.

Book Appointment (610) 543-5555

Full Reference Laboratory: Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't all tests be done in the clinic?

Some tests need specialized instruments, trained pathologists or large batches of samples to run accurately. A reference laboratory has those resources, so sending samples out gives your pet access to a much wider range of testing than any single clinic could offer.

How long do reference lab results take?

Many routine bloodwork and urine results are back within a day or two. Cultures, hormone tests and biopsies often take several days or more. Your vet can give you a general idea of timing when the sample is collected.

Does my pet need to fast before lab testing?

It depends on the test. Some blood tests are more accurate after a short fast, while others don't require one. Ask our team when you book, and keep fresh water available unless your vet tells you otherwise.

Who explains my pet's lab results?

A veterinarian reviews every result in the context of your pet's exam and history, then contacts you to explain what it means. Lab reports can be confusing on their own, so we'll walk you through the findings and any recommended next steps.

Ready to schedule a visit?

Book online, call us, or walk in during open hours.

Book Appointment (610) 543-5555