What to know
Core guidance for dog owners
Use these talking points and checklists to make annual bloodwork part of your dog’s preventive care plan.
What preventive bloodwork can reveal
Bloodwork can help flag changes that may not show up in a physical exam—supporting earlier follow-up and treatment discussions.
Questions to ask your veterinarian
Basic Screening
- What blood panels do you recommend for my dog’s age, breed, and lifestyle?
- How often should my dog have routine blood work?
- What results would prompt a recheck or additional diagnostics?
Understanding the Tests
- What exactly is included in the CBC (Complete Blood Count) and chemistry panel?
- Does this test evaluate organ function such as liver, kidneys, and pancreas?
- Will this panel detect inflammation, infection, anemia, or metabolic disease?
Early Detection
- What diseases or conditions can be detected before symptoms appear?
- Can routine blood work help detect cancer markers or abnormalities early?
- What changes in blood work might indicate early kidney or liver disease?
Breed & Age Considerations
- Are there breed-specific risks we should monitor for with blood testing?
- Should senior dogs have expanded panels or more frequent screening?
- At what age do you recommend baseline blood work?
Additional Preventive Tests
- Should my dog also have thyroid testing?
- Do you recommend urinalysis alongside blood work?
- Are there tests for tick-borne diseases or heartworm complications?
Interpreting Results
- Can you explain what each abnormal value means in plain terms?
- What trends should we watch for over time?
- Should we compare results to previous blood work to track changes?
Follow-Up Care
- If something is slightly abnormal, what is the next step?
- When should blood work be repeated to monitor changes?
- Are there diet, medication, or lifestyle changes that could improve these values?
Transparency & Records
- Can I receive a copy of the full lab results for my records?
- What lab does your clinic use, and do they provide reference ranges specific to dogs?
How to read results (at a high level)
Ask for a copy of results and trends over time. Focus on what changed, what’s borderline, and what the next step is.
When to test sooner than “annual”
Consider earlier testing if your dog is a senior, has chronic conditions, starts new medications, or shows appetite/energy/weight changes.
Advocacy Reminder:
Your dog cannot ask questions about their health—but you can. Asking informed questions helps ensure your veterinarian has every opportunity to detect problems early and protect your dog’s long-term health.
Research & Guidance
Understand the “why” behind annual preventive bloodwork
Evidence-informed guidance to help Michigan dog owners and advocates talk with their veterinarian, recognize early warning signs, and support policies that improve canine health statewide.
Why early detection matters
Preventive bloodwork supports earlier conversations and clearer decisions—before symptoms become emergencies.
Baseline + trends
A “normal” starting point makes it easier to spot meaningful changes year over year.
Earlier follow-up
Abnormal values can prompt rechecks, imaging, or specialist referrals sooner.
Better planning
Results can guide diet, medication monitoring, and preventive strategies tailored to your dog.
Peace of mind
Clear results help owners feel confident. If you receive an abnormal result, sometimes a simple change can help.
Frequently asked questions
General education to support informed conversations with your veterinary team. This is not medical advice.
Is bloodwork safe for dogs?
For most dogs, routine blood draws are low-risk and commonly performed in veterinary clinics. Your veterinarian can advise based on your dog’s health history.
What’s the difference between screening and diagnostic testing?
Screening looks for early changes in otherwise healthy pets. Diagnostic testing investigates a specific concern or symptom.
How often should my dog get bloodwork?
Many clinics recommend annual testing, with more frequent monitoring for seniors or dogs with chronic conditions. Ask what’s appropriate for your dog.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Bring a list of medications/supplements, recent changes in appetite or behavior, and any prior lab results if you have them.
Can I request a copy of the lab report?
Yes—request a copy and ask your veterinarian to explain key values and trends over time.
Does Vito’s Mission provide veterinary care?
No. We provide education and advocacy resources and encourage owners to work with their veterinarian for medical decisions. Our goal is to make CBC and Chemistry Panels a regulated standard in veterinarian practices.
Turn research into impact
Help advance Vito’s Act in Michigan
Your voice helps build momentum for better preventive care standards. Add your name, share with your community, and encourage lawmakers to support early detection for dogs.