In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, host Stephen and guest Dr. Holly Brown discuss the importance of lab work in pet healthcare. They cover topics such as the complete blood count (CBC), fecal testing, and urinalysis. They also explore the differences between in-house testing and reference labs. Dr. Brown emphasizes the value of baseline lab results and provides a fun fact about the origin of the word 'leukemia'. The episode concludes with a preview of Part 2, where they will delve deeper into specific aspects of lab testing.TakeawaysLab work is an essential part of pet healthcare and can provide valuable insights into a pet's overall health.The complete blood count (CBC) is a comprehensive test that examines red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.Fecal testing helps detect gastrointestinal parasites and is crucial for both the pet's health and public health.Urinalysis provides valuable information about kidney function, hydration status, and various metabolic processes.Choosing between in-house testing and reference labs depends on factors such as urgency, convenience, and the range of available tests.Performing lab work at different stages of a pet's life can establish baselines and detect abnormalities early on.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Funny Skits01:24 Introducing the Family Pet Podcast and Guest03:23 Lab Work and Its Importance06:19 Understanding the Complete Blood Count (CBC)09:09 Fecal Testing and its Significance13:01 The Urinalysis and its Role in Diagnosis16:31 In-House Testing vs. Reference Labs19:24 When to Perform Lab Work23:45 The Value of Baseline Lab Results24:30 Fun Fact: The Origin of the Word 'Leukemia'26:14 Conclusion and Preview of Part 2