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When you take your pooch in for a check up, your veterinarian will likely want to conduct a blood test that is referred to as a biochemical profile. Although most pet owners happily agree to have the biochemical profile completed, many don't actually know why the testing is done or even what the test is looking for.

What is a Biochemical Profile Test?

A biochemical test is conducted by taking a sample of your pet's blood. This sample is then used to check on how the internal organs are functioning. It also identifies your pet's enzyme levels and electrolytes. By checking on these areas, your vet can better evaluate the health of your pet as well as whether or not it is safe to give your pet certain medications. Even if your pet appears to be healthy, it is a good idea to conduct a biochemical test in order to screen your pet's health and to catch serious illnesses and diseases early. In fact, catching some diseases early can almost guarantee your vet will be able to treat the illness effectively.

Specific Problems that can be Identified with a Biochemical Profile

There are many specific conditions and illnesses that can be successfully monitored with the help of a biochemical profile test. These include:

' Cancer

' Deficiencies of Blood Sodium, Calcium, and Potassium

' Glandular Problems

' Hormonal Disease

' Kidney Disease

' Liver Disease

Aside from being given for routine health screenings, biochemical profiles will also be conducted if your pet is exhibiting certain warning signs of these diseases. These warning signs include:

' Diarrhea

' Glandular Problems

' Urinary Problems

' Vomiting

If your pet is experiencing any of these health issues, you can be almost certain your vet will conduct a biochemical profile.

What to Expect from the Biochemical Profile

Although there are no health issues associated with biochemical profiles, unless your pet has a problem with excessive bleeding, the process can still be somewhat painful or your pet. The only pain involved, however, is that which your pet experiences from the needle piercing the skin in order to draw out a blood sample. The amount of pain your pet experiences from this process will depend upon your pet's pain tolerance level as well as on the skill of the person drawing the blood.

In order to draw the blood, the vet or the vet tech will first sterilize a needle. Then he or she will place your pet in a position that makes it possible to access either an external jugular, such as what is found in the neck, or a superficial leg vein. The vet or vet tech will wet down the hair with alcohol in order to better find the vein and may even clip a little away, particularly if your pet has long hair or particularly small veins. With the vein properly exposed, the blood can be easily drawn.

Once the blood has been drawn, it is placed in a glass tube and is allowed to clot. It is then placed inside a centrifuge in order to be separated. The serum is then sent to the lab in order to be analyzed. Once it reaches the lab, it usually takes anywhere from 40 to 60 minutes to get results. Therefore, most pet owners get the results within 6 to 24 hours after the blood sample is taken.