Vet visit questions?

[Marci and Buddy]

My 16 y.o. Buddy has a vet visit tommorw morning-first one in 3 years. just a routine check up. I will ask her to take a blood sample.
Any suggestions as to what test i should ask her for specifically? thanks very much.

 

[Lisa and Merlyn (GA)]

I would do senior panel and urinalysis to check kidney function. Make sure their senior panel includes a T4 test.

 

[Hillary & Maui (GA)]

It's actually two T4 tests - the regular T4 and one called "Free T4". Now if only it were really free ;-) that would be ideal.

Have the vet examine teeth, as dental issues could become a concern and if he hasn't had a dental, it may be time for one. Just make sure that they take xrays before procedure - to see if any teeth need to be removed and after procedure to ensure they got everything (roots, nerves, etc. ).

 

[Marci and Buddy]

thanks Hillary-we went, and I did ask for both , but can you tell me what is the difference between a t4 and free t4 test?
Also, vet wanted to do a glucose test but I said no, because it wasnt mentioned here on the board
in response to me question.did I do the right thing?