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Diagnostics

Our clinic is equipped with advanced in-house diagnostic tools to help us quickly and accurately assess your pet’s health. From high-definition digital X-rays to comprehensive blood testing and pathology, we are able to diagnose a wide range of conditions efficiently and with minimal stress to your pet.

Diagnostic Services 
 

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. 

Using modern diagnostic equipment and in-house laboratory testing, we can investigate illness, monitor ongoing medical conditions, and provide timely treatment tailored to your pet's individual needs. 
 

 

Why Diagnostics Matter 

Pets cannot tell us where they hurt. Diagnostic testing allows us to identify the underlying cause of illness, confirm a diagnosis, monitor treatment progress and make informed medical decisions. 

From routine wellness screening to emergency investigations, our diagnostic services help us provide accurate, efficient and compassionate care.

Our Diagnostic Services 

Digital Radiography (X-rays) 

Digital radiography provides detailed images of your pet’s bones, chest and abdominal structures, helping us diagnose a wide range of conditions that may not be detected through physical examination alone. 

X-rays are commonly used to assess: 

  • Fractures and bone injuries  

  • Arthritis and joint disease  

  • Chest and lung conditions  

  • Heart size and shape  

  • Gastrointestinal obstruction  

  • Urinary stones  

  • Spinal and skeletal abnormalities  

Can you see how many puppies are in there?

In-House Blood Testing 

Our in-house IDEXX laboratory allows us to perform essential blood tests during your pet’s visit, helping us obtain rapid results and make timely treatment decisions. 

Blood testing provides valuable information about: 

  • Red and white blood cells  

  • Platelets  

  • Organ function  

  • Electrolyte balance  

  • Inflammation and infection  

  • Overall health status  

Blood tests are commonly used for investigating illness, monitoring chronic disease and assessing anaesthetic safety.

In-House Urine Testing 

Urinalysis is an important diagnostic tool for evaluating urinary tract health, kidney function and systemic diseases. 

Our in-house urine testing may include: 

  • Urine specific gravity  

  • Chemical analysis  

  • Sediment examination  

  • Evaluation of crystals, cells and bacteria  

  • Protein assessment  
     

Urine testing is particularly valuable for pets with: 

  • Kidney disease  

  • Diabetes  

  • Urinary tract problems  

  • Increased thirst or urination  

  • Abnormal blood test results  

Some of the urinary crystals observed under the microscope

Endocrine Testing 

Hormonal disorders can often present with subtle signs and require specialised testing for accurate diagnosis and monitoring. 
 

We provide endocrine testing for conditions including: 

  • Diabetes mellitus  

  • Hyperthyroidism  

  • Hypothyroidism  

  • Cushing’s syndrome  

  • Addison’s disease  

Specialised endocrine tests are performed through trusted veterinary reference laboratories when required. 

 

Clinical Pathology 

Cytology, Faecal Examination, Skin and Hair Analysis 

Microscopic evaluation provides valuable diagnostic information and helps identify underlying causes of many common medical conditions. 

 

Cytology involves examining cells under a microscope to assist diagnosis of: 

  • Skin and subcutaneous masses  

  • Enlarged lymph nodes  

  • Ear infections  

  • Skin infections  

  • Oral lesions  

  • Body cavity fluids  
     

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is a minimally invasive method commonly used to collect samples from lumps and abnormalities.

Faecal Examination 

Faecal testing helps identify intestinal parasites and gastrointestinal abnormalities that may contribute to digestive problems. 
 

Testing may include: 

  • Faecal flotation  

  • Direct smear examination  

  • Parasite identification  

  • Giardia testing  

Can you guess from where these samples are collected from?

Skin and Hair Examination 

Microscopic examination of skin and hair samples can assist in diagnosing: 

  • Skin infections  

  • Yeast and bacterial overgrowth  

  • External parasites  

  • Dermatological conditions  

Ear mites collected from a cat's ear

Laboratory Sample Submission 

For specialised testing beyond our in-house capabilities, samples can be submitted to accredited veterinary reference laboratories for advanced analysis. 

Sample submission may include: 

  • Histopathology following biopsy or mass removal  

  • Advanced endocrine testing  

  • Infectious disease testing  

  • Specialised laboratory investigations  
     

Working with veterinary pathology specialists allows us to obtain accurate diagnoses and provide the most appropriate treatment recommendations for your pet. 

 

Why Choose Our Diagnostic Services? 

✔ Modern diagnostic equipment 
✔ Rapid in-house blood and urine testing 
✔ Comprehensive clinical pathology assessment 
✔ Access to veterinary reference laboratories 
✔ Diagnostic results interpreted alongside your pet’s history and clinical examination 

Important Notes

  • Some diagnostic tests may require sedation or anaesthesia depending on your pet’s condition and temperament (additional fees apply).

  • Not all results are immediate; some specialised tests may be sent to external laboratories.

  • Diagnostic testing costs vary depending on the type and complexity of testing required.

  • A veterinary consultation may be required prior to or alongside diagnostic services.

  • All results will be interpreted by a veterinarian, and treatment options will be discussed with you following diagnosis.

COME AND SAY HELLO!

Ready to visit?

57 Williamsons Road, Doncaster — just a short drive from Melbourne's east. We'd love to meet your pet!

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© 2026 Happy Tails Vet · ABN 36 616 910 902

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57 Williamsons Road

Doncaster VIC 3108

Hours
Mon-Fri: 8:00am-6:00pm

Sat: 9:00am-1:00pm

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