ERD Testing

I am having Foxy spayed in about 2 weeks and the vet "suggested" we have a couple of tests done while she's there. He mentioned a urine chem strip test (I think to check her sugar) and ERD screening for any kidney disease. Even though I would always put her welfare first, what is anyone's opinion on these tests? The spaying is already quite expensive (we are also having her microchipped at the same time) without adding another $75 to the mix. She's so young I just can't imagine there's anything wrong with her that would warrant these tests. I don't want to be a bad mom and not have them if they are needed.

Thanks.

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Permalink Reply by Sarah C. on February 8, 2013 at 12:06pm

If there are no indications of kidney disease, it seems pretty odd to suggest this. You could ask the vet if he sees any particular indicators that she'd need this.

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Permalink Reply by Beth on February 8, 2013 at 12:08pm

They usually do a kidney and liver blood panel before surgery because poor function in either can impact the anesthesia.

I would ask the purpose.

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Permalink Reply by Becky Focht on February 8, 2013 at 1:07pm

I do believe you are right Beth, I think it's just standard procedure, but I will ask the purpose.

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Permalink Reply by Melissa and Franklin! on February 8, 2013 at 5:31pm

I do not really see the need to test urine but I would do a pre-anesthetic blood panel which will test the liver and kidneys. This is standard for most vets and most anesthetic procedures. I don't really see the value of a urine test however since the anesthesia mostly impacts liver and kidneys you probably aren't going to get much out of a urine test strip and it seems a bit excessive.

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Permalink Reply by Cathie on February 9, 2013 at 11:37am

I think you are wise to raise the question.

I have not been impressed with certain aspects of my experience with the vet clinic I chose. It is a very highly-rated clinic with all the latest equipment, lab facilities, numerous techs, several vets, a large new building.

Mostly what they are is a BUSINESS. They rather aggressively try to sell you things...tests, drugs, insecticides, special foods, puppy classes, you name it. Sure, they care about the welfare of the animals...but the financial "bottom line" drives their practice and it shows.

If a serious medical issue or injury presented itself, this would be the place to go. But for basic wellness care and desexing surgery, I think the customer ends up overpaying to support the clinic's overhead: payrolls, insurance, equipment and facilities leases, etc. There are less expensive options for the routine stuff. Just my two cents.

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Permalink Reply by Priss, Charlie & Kaylee (PK) on February 9, 2013 at 1:35pm

Have you checked out any spay/neuter clinics around your area? They tend to be cheaper and we had a good experience with the one in our area. The post-surgery check up was at our local vets office as well.