Laboratory

We offer in-house biochemistry, haematology and microscopy which enables us to examine blood, urine, skin or other samples on the same day, which is important when requiring a rapid diagnosis. Some samples do require external analysis at Nationwide Laboratories but these results usually take only a few days. Our latest addition to our laboratory set up is an endocrine analyser, allowing us to assess thyroid function, liver function, adrenal function (testing for Cushings or Addison’s Disease) and progesterone levels for breeding.

The most successful time to mate a bitch is two days after she has ovulated: the only easily tested, reliable method of predicting ovulation in the bitch is a progesterone blood test. Ovulation occurs two days after the LH surge when progesterone levels are between 15 and 20 nmol/l (please note that some countries and some tests use different units to measure progesterone ie ng/ml and in that case ovulation occurs between 5 – 7). Most vet practices will take a blood sample, sent it to a lab and have the result the next day. This is very accurate but is not available on weekends or Bank Holidays. A premate test (in house blood test) is a useful indicator of progesterone levels, but even when carried out by well trained staff it only gives a guide to progesterone levels.

At Murphy & Co Vets our progesterone analyser gives a precise result within an hour of taking a blood sample. The test costs £70.00.