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Routine lab tests catch hidden health issues early, helping your pet live a longer, healthier life. Schedule preventive screenings today for peace of mind and personalized care.


Beyond Vaccines: Why Routine Lab Testing Is Essential for Your Pet

As summer heats up, so does the risk of dehydration in pets. Dogs and cats, just like humans, need proper hydration to stay healthy, especially in the scorching days of July. Whether heading out for a beach day or just enjoying a backyard BBQ, keeping your furry friends cool, hydrated, and safe is crucial. In this post, we'll explore the signs of dehydration, tips for keeping your pets hydrated, and how your veterinary clinic can help.

Veterinary Advice: Spotting and Preventing Pet Dehydration This Summer

Whether you're a new cat parent or a seasoned pro, this guide has everything you need to help your cat thrive all month.



Ultimate Guide to Cat Care: Keep Your Feline Happy and Healthy

March is Pet Poison Prevention Awareness Month - learn how to protect your pets from hidden household dangers like toxic foods, plants, and chemicals. This guide covers key risks, emergency tips, and prevention strategies to keep your furry friends safe.



Toxic to Pets: Household Dangers Every Owner Should Know

As our beloved pets age, their healthcare needs evolve significantly. While regular veterinary care is essential for pets of all ages, senior pets require a more tailored approach to ensure they enjoy a healthy, active life in their golden years. Explore the differences between senior pet wellness and regular veterinary care, highlighting the importance of specialized attention for aging pets.

Understanding Senior Pet Wellness Care: A Guide for Pet Owners

Gardner Animal Care Center

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Proudly serving the citizens of Gardner and it's surrounding areas.


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Since 1988, the goal of the veterinarians and staff at Gardner Animal Care Center has been to assemble and maintain a veterinary health care team committed to providing exceptional client service and veterinary health care. The Gardner Animal Care Center displays an unrivaled commitment to our clients through continuing education, technological advances in veterinary medicine and service, and, most importantly, providing compassionate care to all pets entrusted to us. We care for pets throughout central Massachusetts and serve the areas of Gardner, Fitchburg, Worcester, Leominster, Athol, Rindge, and Keene, NH.

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August is National Immunization Awareness Month, but while vaccines often take center stage, there’s another vital part of your pet’s preventive care that deserves the spotlight: routine laboratory testing.These simple yet powerful tests can uncover hidden health issues before they become serious problems. We believe a proactive approach is the best medicine for your pet’s health and peace of mind.What Is Preventative Lab Work?<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://vetamc.com/wellness-and-preventative-care/">Preventative lab work</a> refers to blood tests, urinalysis, and other diagnostic screenings performed during wellness visits, even when your pet seems perfectly healthy. These tests help us establish a baseline for your pet’s normal health and catch early signs of disease that may not be visible during a physical exam.Common tests include:<ul><li>Complete Blood Count (CBC): Evaluates red and white blood cells for signs of infection, anemia, or immune disorders.</li><li>Blood Chemistry Panel: Assesses liver, kidney, and pancreatic function, as well as electrolyte levels.</li><li>Urinalysis: Checks for urinary tract infections, kidney function, and signs of diabetes.</li><li>Fecal Testing: Screens for parasites that may not show symptoms but can affect overall health.</li></ul>Why Is Preventative Lab Work Important?<ol><li>Early Detection Saves Lives – Many chronic conditions like kidney disease, liver problems, and diabetes begin silently. Catching them early allows for more treatment options, improved outcomes, and less stress for both you and your pet.</li><li>A Baseline for the Future – Testing while your pet is healthy helps us understand what’s “normal” for them, making it easier to spot changes down the road. This is especially useful as your pet ages.</li><li>Tailored Preventive Care –&nbsp; Lab results can guide everything from dietary recommendations to the timing of future checkups or vaccinations. It’s personalized medicine for your four-legged friend.</li></ol>How Often Should Your Pet Get Lab Work?<ul><li>Young Adults (1–6 years): Annual wellness testing is ideal to establish and track a baseline.</li><li>Seniors (7+ years): Semi-annual lab work is recommended to monitor age-related changes.</li><li>Pets with Chronic Conditions: More frequent testing may be needed to manage conditions and medications.</li></ul>Even if your pet seems fine, hidden problems may be developing. Prevention is always more effective—and more affordable—than treatment.What to Expect During a Lab Visit – Your pet’s wellness exam may include a quick blood draw and a urine sample (we’ll guide you on collecting one if needed). Results are often available within a day or two, and our veterinary team will call to explain everything and answer any questions.Let’s Keep Your Pet Healthy Together –&nbsp; Preventative lab work is one of the smartest, most compassionate choices you can make for your pet. In honor of National Immunization Awareness Month, we’re encouraging all pet parents to stay one step ahead with wellness testing.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="link" href="https://vetamc.com/gainesville-ga-veterinary-appointment/">Schedule</a> your pet’s lab work today and give them the healthiest life possible—one step at a time.

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We love educating our clients, that's why we have curated and shared posts filled with helpful information regarding pet care.

Gardner Animal Care Center accepts Cash, Checks and Credit/Debit cards along with other financing options mentioned bellow.

We are pleased to offer access to several financing options.

Receive Automatic Reminders, Request Appointments 24/7,Your Pet's Organizer App and Save Notes, Pics & Much More!

Download our app and connect with us on PetDesk. Maintaining your pet's health from your mobile device has never been easier.

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Gardner Animal Care Center has been a trusted source of comprehensive veterinary care since 1988.

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Beyond Vaccines: Why Routine Lab Testing Is Essential for Your Pet

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Beyond Vaccines: Why Routine Lab Testing Is Essential for Your Pet

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