Which tests may be included in a senior dog's health screening to assess systemic health?

• A. Blood chemistry panel, complete blood count, urinalysis, and sometimes thyroid tests or kidney function tests.
• B. Only a stool culture.
• C. MRI of the spine for all seniors.
• D. Exclusive heartworm test.

Answer: (C)

A senior dog health screening is about checking multiple organ systems with a routine panel rather than focusing on one area. A typical set includes a complete blood count to assess red and white blood cells and platelets, a blood chemistry panel to evaluate liver and kidney function, electrolytes, glucose, and protein levels, and a urinalysis to inspect kidney health and the urinary tract. Depending on the dog’s age and risk factors, thyroid testing or additional kidney function markers may be added. This combination helps detect issues like anemia, infections, kidney or liver disease, metabolic imbalances, or thyroid problems early, often before symptoms appear. In comparison, a stool culture looks only at the GI tract, an MRI of the spine for all seniors isn’t a standard systemic screen, and a single heartworm test doesn’t provide a broad view of systemic health.