Companion and Animal Testing

Companion and AnimalParasitology (Contact us to discuss)

Companion animals around the world are susceptible to both external parasites, such as fleas, lice, and mites, and internal parasites, including hookworms, lungworms, roundworms, and tapeworms. External infestations can lead to severe itching and hair loss, while symptoms of internal infections vary depending on the affected organ system; many infections may remain asymptomatic. Roundworms, one of the most common parasites in dogs and cats, can also infect humans, particularly children, and may result in serious health issues.

To identify external parasites, a microscopic examination of plucked hair is performed. Internal parasites are primarily detected through the microscopic analysis of feces, although other diagnostic methods may also be employed.

Companion and Animal Virology

The Virology Unit provides a select range of tests for companion and zoo animals, including PCR tests for canine herpesvirus and, upon request, tests for elephant endotheliotropic herpesviruses (EEHV). If you require additional tests for the diagnosis of viral diseases, surveillance, or vaccine efficacy studies

Companion Animal Fecal Microbiology

Several bacterial pathogens are known to cause diarrhea in companion animals, including:

• Salmonella spp.
• Clostridium difficile
• Clostridium perfringens
• Yersinia spp.

Campylobacter and Yersinia are detected through direct culture on selective agar, while Salmonella is identified using enrichment culture and selective agar methods. Clostridium perfringens and Clostridium difficile are anaerobic bacteria commonly found in the environment and in the intestines of some healthy animals. Since these bacteria can also be present in the feces of healthy individuals, bacterial culture alone is not sufficient for diagnosis; toxin detection is necessary to confirm disease.

Bacterial Culture, Fungal Culture, and Sensitivity Testing

Bacterial culture and sensitivity testing are essential for identifying bacteria in a sample and determining their sensitivity to various antimicrobial compounds. The results can help diagnose the cause of an infection, identify potential sources, and assess whether the infection may be contagious to other animals. Sensitivity testing guides appropriate treatment options.

Fungal culture is utilized to detect yeasts or molds in samples for diagnosing fungal infections, with antifungal sensitivity testing available as a referral service.

We are equipped with advanced microbiological tools, including the VITEK II system for bacterial identification and susceptibility testing.

Companion Animal Urinalysis and Culture

Urinalysis is essential for diagnosing diseases of the urinary system and can also help rule out conditions in other body systems. The urinalysis includes four key tests:

1. Urine Specific Gravity
   This test measures the kidneys' ability to concentrate urine. Dehydrated animals with normal renal function typically produce urine with a high specific gravity, while those with kidney disease may struggle to concentrate or dilute urine effectively.
2. Urine Dipstick
   A dipstick test assesses the pH of the urine sample and detects the presence of various chemical constituents, such as bilirubin, glucose, hemoglobin, ketones, and protein.
3. Urine Microscopy
   This test involves examining the sediment from a spun urine sample to identify host cells, crystals, and other structures present in the sediment.
4. Urine Culture
   A urine culture is performed to identify the bacteria present in the urine sample and determine which antimicrobials are effective against these bacteria