Pet Diagnostics for Dogs and Cats in San Francisco

Getting answers quickly is half the work of taking care of a sick pet. Urban Pet Hospital is equipped with a full in-house diagnostic suite for dogs and cats in San Francisco: digital X-ray, ultrasound, complete blood count and chemistry panels, urinalysis, cytology, and a long list of point-of-care snap tests. The clinic is open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm, with same-day urgent care during clinic hours.

What are veterinary diagnostics?

Veterinary diagnostics are the lab tests and imaging used to identify the cause of a dog or cat's symptoms. Common diagnostics include digital X-ray, ultrasound, complete blood count, chemistry panel, urinalysis, cytology, fine needle aspirate, and snap tests for infectious disease. In-house diagnostics deliver answers the same visit.

In-House Bloodwork and Lab Testing in San Francisco

Most routine and urgent lab panels run in-clinic. Complete blood counts, chemistry panels, electrolytes, and pancreatic and thyroid screening are usually back within an hour. This means the veterinarian can review results with you the same visit and start a care plan without waiting on outside labs. Send-out testing is available for cases that need more specialized analysis.

Digital X-Ray and Ultrasound in San Francisco

Digital X-ray is the workhorse of veterinary imaging. We use it to check for fractures, foreign objects, bladder stones, chest concerns, and abdominal abnormalities. Ultrasound adds a layer of soft-tissue detail and is used to evaluate the abdomen, the bladder, the liver, the kidneys, and pregnancy stages. Both modalities are available in-clinic, and images can be reviewed with you on the spot.

Cytology, Snap Tests, and Biopsy in San Francisco

Cytology and fine needle aspirate (FNA) help the team evaluate skin lumps, ear discharge, and other samples right under the microscope. Snap testing handles common screens such as parvovirus, feline retrovirus, heartworm, and tick-borne disease. Biopsies are collected in-clinic and sent to a histopathology lab for full evaluation, with the surgical team coordinating any follow-up care.

Urinalysis and Culture in San Francisco

A simple urine sample tells us a great deal about kidney function, urinary tract health, hydration, and metabolic concerns. The clinic runs urinalysis in-house and can send out for culture when a stubborn infection or unusual organism is suspected. Results refine the care plan and rule out conditions that look similar on a physical exam.

Endocrine and Specialty Panels in San Francisco

For pets with suspected Cushing's, Addison's, diabetes, or thyroid concerns, the clinic runs ACTH stimulation testing and other endocrine panels. Clotting factor assessment, microscopic evaluation for ear mites, Giardia testing, and skin scrapings round out the diagnostic toolkit.

Explore More

Veterinary services overview

Medical workup for ongoing concerns

Surgical care after diagnostic findings

Same-day urgent care

FAQs

How long does it take to get bloodwork results back?

Most routine blood panels run in-house and are back within an hour. The veterinarian reviews results with you the same visit so a care plan can begin without waiting on outside labs.

Does my pet need to fast before bloodwork?

A short fast (8 to 12 hours) is sometimes recommended for accuracy on certain panels, especially diabetic screening and pre-anesthetic workups. The team provides specific instructions when the appointment is scheduled.

What is the difference between an X-ray and an ultrasound?

X-ray shows bones and the general outline of organs and is fast and effective for fractures, foreign objects, and chest evaluation. Ultrasound shows soft-tissue detail in organs like the bladder, liver, and uterus. Many cases benefit from both.

Do you do biopsies in clinic?

Yes. Biopsy samples are collected at our clinic and sent to a histopathology lab for full evaluation. The veterinarian coordinates follow-up care, including surgical planning when appropriate.

If your dog or cat needs answers, our in-house diagnostic team can usually get them in a single visit. Call Urban Pet Hospital at (415) 400-5754 to schedule lab work, imaging, or a diagnostic workup in San Francisco.