Arundel, ME
Pet Health Screening Tests in Arundel, ME
Protect your pet’s future with targeted health screening tests. Early detection and preventive insight keep your dog or cat healthier for longer.
Early Detection Through Veterinary Screenings
At Mann Memorial Veterinary Clinic, we believe that proactive care is the foundation of a healthy life for your pet. That’s why we offer comprehensive health screening tests to identify genetic conditions, monitor disease risk, and support responsible breeding decisions. Our veterinary team utilizes advanced diagnostics and proven protocols to screen for inherited disorders, including hip dysplasia, renal dysplasia, and von Willebrand disease, providing you with peace of mind and the necessary information to safeguard your pet’s well-being.
Why Early Screening Is Critical for Pet Health
Many serious pet health conditions are genetic and may go unnoticed until it’s too late. Screening tests help detect these risks early — before symptoms develop — so that you can take preventive steps, manage disease progression, or make informed breeding decisions.
Common reasons for screening include:
- Identifying inherited conditions before breeding
- Detecting silent disorders in high-risk breeds
- Creating personalized care and monitoring plans
- Preventing emergencies during surgery or injury
From young dogs in athletic training to senior pets with emerging symptoms, screening tests can provide life-changing insights.
Screening for Von Willebrand Disease
Von Willebrand disease is a hereditary bleeding disorder similar to hemophilia in humans. Affected dogs lack a crucial clotting protein, putting them at serious risk during surgeries, injuries, or dental procedures. Unfortunately, many owners are unaware that their pet has the condition until an emergency arises.
Breeds most at risk include:
- German Shepherds
- Golden Retrievers
- Poodles
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
- Pointers (German Shorthaired/Wirehaired)
- Shetland Sheepdogs
- Scottish and Manchester Terriers
If your dog is one of these breeds — or you plan to breed them — we highly recommend a von Willebrand disease screening test to ensure their safety and reproductive soundness.
Screening for Renal Dysplasia
Renal dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects kidney development, leading to premature kidney failure — often before a dog reaches one year of age. While incurable, early detection allows for proactive care and helps prevent the condition from being passed to future generations.
Breeds at highest risk include:
- Shih Tzus
- Lhasa Apsos
- Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers
If you are breeding or caring for one of these breeds, renal dysplasia screening is highly recommended. Even dogs who appear healthy can be carriers, which is why testing is crucial for ethical breeding and lifelong wellness.
Screening and Certification for Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint forms abnormally, leading to instability, pain, and arthritis over time. Early symptoms may include limping, hopping, reluctance to exercise, or difficulty climbing stairs. Left untreated, this condition can lead to long-term joint degeneration.
We offer two trusted methods of hip dysplasia screening:
OFA Certification
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) provides formal certification of hip joint soundness.
- Requires X-rays taken under anesthesia in a specific position
- Results are evaluated by board-certified veterinary radiologists
- Commonly used by breeders and working dog programs
PennHIP Method
PennHIP is a precise diagnostic tool that can identify signs of hip dysplasia as early as 16 weeks of age.
- Requires X-rays in three different positions under general anesthesia
- Measures joint laxity with superior accuracy
- Ideal for athletic dogs, early screening, or breeding selection
Our team will discuss the best testing method based on your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle. Early detection allows us to implement joint health plans or begin treatment if needed.
Veterinary Services in Arundel, ME
Vaccination
Dentistry
Sick Pet Visits