A person with dark hair in a bun, wearing a white and navy striped shirt, holds a light orange cat on their shoulder. The cat looks alert, gazing into the distance, with sunlight in the background.

Pet Diagnostic Imaging Services & Lab Testing in Lake Forest, CA

Fast, accurate digital X-rays, ultrasounds, and in-house lab tests to keep your pet healthy

Comprehensive Pet Diagnostic Services in Lake Forest

At Bliss Animal Hospital in Lake Forest, CA, we offer comprehensive diagnostic services to help your dog or cat get the fastest, most accurate diagnosis possible. From high-definition digital X-rays and advanced ultrasound imaging to in-house laboratory testing, our veterinary team combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to better understand your pet’s health. Whether it’s a routine checkup or an urgent situation, our goal is to deliver clear answers quickly so we can begin the right treatment plan without delay.

A veterinarian examines a chest X-ray of a dog displayed on a tablet, while the dog stands on an exam table in a brightly lit veterinary clinic. Another X-ray image is visible on a monitor in the background.

Our hospital uses advanced digital X-ray technology to provide high-resolution images with lower radiation exposure, keeping your pet safe while enabling faster, more accurate diagnoses. Digital radiology allows our veterinary team to:

Capture clear images in seconds for timely treatment decisions
Detect fractures, joint problems, and other skeletal issues with exceptional accuracy
Examine the chest and abdomen for conditions such as heart disease, pneumonia, or gastrointestinal blockages
Easily share images with specialists for collaborative evaluations when needed

By using digital imaging, we help pet owners in Lake Forest and the surrounding South Orange County communities receive quicker results and more precise treatment plans.

High-Definition Digital X-Rays for Precise Imaging

Digital Dental X-Rays

Many dental problems in pets occur below the gum line, where they can’t be seen during a standard oral exam. Our digital dental X-rays provide a detailed look at the roots, bones, and internal anatomy of your pet’s teeth, helping us identify periodontal disease, tooth fractures, and other hidden dental issues early.

This technology is faster, safer, and more comfortable for pets, using lower radiation doses compared to traditional X-rays. With immediate, high-quality results, we can quickly develop a customized treatment plan to keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain-free.

A close-up of a dog's open mouth showing a swollen gum area with a blue arrow pointing at it, alongside a circular inset of a dental X-ray highlighting the same area.

Request Appointment

(949) 354-5201

A veterinarian wearing gloves draws blood from a dog's front leg using a syringe, while gently holding the dog's paw.

A close-up of a microscope next to a computer monitor displaying a magnified pink and purple cellular image, suggesting a laboratory or scientific research setting.

In-House Laboratory Testing for Fast Results

At Bliss Animal Hospital, we understand that time matters when your pet is sick or needs pre-anesthetic testing before surgery. Our comprehensive in-house lab delivers same-day results for urgent cases, allowing us to start treatment right away.

For more advanced or specialized diagnostics, we partner with trusted reference laboratories, typically providing results within 1–3 business days. This combination of in-house speed and specialist expertise ensures that every pet in Lake Forest and surrounding South Orange County communities receives accurate, timely, and tailored care.

Our in-house testing options include:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Measures red and white blood cells, platelets, and more to help detect infections, inflammation, anemia, immune disorders, and clotting issues. This test is frequently used for both routine checkups and emergency evaluations, especially when pets are lethargic, have a fever, or show other signs of illness.

Blood Chemistry Panel

Evaluates liver, kidney, and pancreas function, along with glucose and electrolyte levels. It’s a valuable tool for identifying dehydration, metabolic imbalances, toxin exposure, and organ stress. Often used for both healthy pets during wellness exams and pets showing symptoms like vomiting, weight changes, or loss of appetite.

Thyroid Panel (T4)

Assesses thyroid hormone levels, which control metabolism. This test is essential for diagnosing hypothyroidism in dogs and hyperthyroidism in cats. It’s recommended for pets with unexplained weight changes, skin or coat issues, or behavioral changes, particularly in middle-aged or senior pets.

Heartworm Test

Detects heartworm disease, a serious condition transmitted by mosquitoes. This test is vital for dogs—even those on prevention medication—to ensure they remain heartworm-free. It’s commonly performed during annual wellness visits and often paired with tick-borne disease testing.

FeLV/FIV Testing

Screens for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), two serious viral conditions in cats. This test is especially important for outdoor cats, new adoptions, or cats exposed to unknown animals, and helps guide long-term care and disease management in multi-cat households.

Pre-Anesthetic Panel

Confirms your pet’s body is ready for anesthesia by evaluating blood counts and organ function. This screening reduces surgical risks and allows us to tailor anesthesia safely to your pet’s needs. It’s a required step before procedures such as spay/neuter, dental cleanings, and mass removals, especially for older or at-risk pets.

Fecal Exams

Checks for intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and certain protozoa. Regular fecal testing is critical for early detection and treatment, protecting both your pet’s health and your family’s, as some parasites can be transmitted to humans. We recommend fecal exams as part of annual wellness visits and whenever gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea or weight loss are present.

Urinalysis

Provides valuable insight into your pet’s kidney and bladder health while helping detect conditions such as urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, and dehydration. This simple, non-invasive test is often recommended during annual wellness exams, when pets show changes in urination habits, or as part of a comprehensive diagnostic workup for sick pets.

Learn more about our dog and cat blood testing services in Lake Forest, CA.

At Bliss Animal Hospital in Lake Forest, our in-house digital ultrasound enhances the way we diagnose and treat pets. This non-invasive, pain-free imaging tool provides real-time insights into your pet’s health, helping us detect problems earlier and with greater accuracy.

Ultrasound imaging allows our veterinary team to:

Examine organs such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, and bladder for abnormalities
Detect tumors, cysts, and internal fluid that may not be visible on X-rays
Support safer, guided procedures like biopsies
Monitor internal health during surgery or emergencies

For more complex cases, we partner with a board certified veterinary specialist who visits our hospital to perform specialized imaging and provide expert interpretations. This means your pet benefits from specialist-level care without the need to leave Lake Forest, CA.

Advanced Ultrasound Imaging in Lake Forest, CA

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Diagnostic Testing

What is diagnostic testing for pets?

Diagnostic testing includes laboratory tests, digital imaging (X-rays, ultrasound), and specialized procedures that help veterinarians understand what’s happening inside your pet’s body. These tools allow us to assess organ function, detect infections, locate injuries, and identify underlying conditions before they become more serious.

Why is diagnostic testing important for my pet?

Early and accurate diagnostics are critical for your pet’s health. By identifying issues early—sometimes before symptoms even appear—we can create a treatment plan that’s more effective, less invasive, and often less costly. Whether your pet is here for a wellness visit, an emergency, or pre-surgical testing, diagnostics help us make the most informed decisions about their care.

How do I know if my pet needs diagnostic testing?

If your pet is showing changes in behavior, appetite, energy levels, urination, bowel habits, or unexplained weight changes, diagnostic testing can help pinpoint the cause. Your veterinarian may also recommend tests during routine checkups to screen for early signs of disease or as a pre-anesthetic precaution before procedures.

What types of diagnostic tests are available for pets?

At Bliss Animal Hospital in Lake Forest, we offer a wide range of in-house and external diagnostic services, including:

Digital X-rays for imaging bones, joints, and internal organs
Dental X-rays for hidden oral health issues
Ultrasound imaging for real-time evaluation of internal organs
In-house blood work for quick health assessments
Fecal exams and urinalysis to detect parasites, infections, or metabolic issues
Specialized panels like thyroid testing, FeLV/FIV screening, and pre-anesthetic evaluations

How long does it take to get results from pet diagnostic tests?

Most in-house tests provide same-day results, which is especially important for urgent cases. More specialized tests sent to reference laboratories typically return results within 1–3 business days. Your veterinarian will review the findings with you and discuss the next steps for your pet’s care.

Do pets need anesthesia for diagnostic imaging?

Most imaging procedures, like digital X-rays or ultrasound, do not require anesthesia and are quick and comfortable for your pet. However, sedation may be recommended for pets who are extremely anxious, in pain, or unable to stay still during the procedure. Dental X-rays are typically performed while your pet is under anesthesia for a dental cleaning, ensuring both accuracy and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Diagnostic Testing

What is diagnostic testing for pets?

Diagnostic testing includes laboratory tests, digital imaging (X-rays, ultrasound), and specialized procedures that help veterinarians understand what’s happening inside your pet’s body. These tools allow us to assess organ function, detect infections, locate injuries, and identify underlying conditions before they become more serious.

Why is diagnostic testing important for my pet?

Early and accurate diagnostics are critical for your pet’s health. By identifying issues early—sometimes before symptoms even appear—we can create a treatment plan that’s more effective, less invasive, and often less costly. Whether your pet is here for a wellness visit, an emergency, or pre-surgical testing, diagnostics help us make the most informed decisions about their care.

How do I know if my pet needs diagnostic testing?

If your pet is showing changes in behavior, appetite, energy levels, urination, bowel habits, or unexplained weight changes, diagnostic testing can help pinpoint the cause. Your veterinarian may also recommend tests during routine checkups to screen for early signs of disease or as a pre-anesthetic precaution before procedures.

What types of diagnostic tests are available for pets?

At Bliss Animal Hospital in Lake Forest, we offer a wide range of in-house and external diagnostic services, including:

Digital X-rays for imaging bones, joints, and internal organs
Dental X-rays for hidden oral health issues
Ultrasound imaging for real-time evaluation of internal organs
In-house blood work for quick health assessments
Fecal exams and urinalysis to detect parasites, infections, or metabolic issues
Specialized panels like thyroid testing, FeLV/FIV screening, and pre-anesthetic evaluations

How long does it take to get results from pet diagnostic tests?

Most in-house tests provide same-day results, which is especially important for urgent cases. More specialized tests sent to reference laboratories typically return results within 1–3 business days. Your veterinarian will review the findings with you and discuss the next steps for your pet’s care.

Do pets need anesthesia for diagnostic imaging?

Most imaging procedures, like digital X-rays or ultrasound, do not require anesthesia and are quick and comfortable for your pet. However, sedation may be recommended for pets who are extremely anxious, in pain, or unable to stay still during the procedure. Dental X-rays are typically performed while your pet is under anesthesia for a dental cleaning, ensuring both accuracy and safety.

Schedule Your Pet’s Diagnostic Appointment Today

Accurate diagnostics are the foundation of effective treatment. Whether your pet needs a routine wellness screening, an urgent imaging procedure, or a specialist consultation, the team at Bliss Animal Hospital is here to help.

A small dog lies on a desk next to a laptop while a veterinarian writes on paper. Another person holds an X-ray image, and a stethoscope is nearby.

Request Appointment

(949) 354-5201

A person in pink pajamas holding a credit card and using a laptop, searching for an affordable vet clinic, with a small brown and white dog sitting beside them on the couch.

Flexible Payment Options

We aim to make our Veterinary diagnostics services accessible and convenient for all pet owners. We accept a variety of payment methods to accommodate your needs:

Cash and Checks: We welcome payments made in cash or by check.
Debit and Credit Cards: We accept major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.
Pet Insurance: We work with various pet insurance providers to help manage the cost of surgical procedures. Please consult with your insurance company to understand the coverage details.
Financing Options: We offer financing options through CareCredit. Our team can provide more information and assist you in finding a plan that suits your budget.

If you have any questions about our payment options, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Meet Our Veterinarians

The blissful faces behind the care

Driven by compassion and purpose, here is the team who will work to make a difference in your pet’s life. Every single visit.

Dr. Nayara Pataro

Veterinarian

What your neighbors are saying!

      
   Bliss Animal Hospital
   169 Google reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Debra Stansfield 
 
 
 
  Dr. Sam is finally the first Doctor to begin getting to the root of the problem!!  Love this place.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Sally Pfeifer 
 
 
 
  It's taken me a few months to put this all into words but Bliss Animal Hospital provided our family with unmatched compassion during the most difficult time with our senior dog. The entire staff was patient, transparent, and supportive throughout the whole process. Unfortunately, our Zoey left quicker than expected and we rushed into their offices, no shoes no nothing, just our pup in a blanket, knowing it was her time to go. They accommodated up immediately, took such great gentle care of her (and of us) and really held our hands through the whole unexpected process. Dr. Nay is amazing, such a kind soul and it's no wonder she works with animals, she just understands them and their owners so well. Dr. Sam even remembered us from a pet we brought in over 8 years ago. Kianna & Mandy are amazing, you can tell they really love what they do because they're so good at it. They don’t just practice medicine—they treat you like family. We cannot recommend the Bliss Animal Hospital team enough.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Brian Yamada 
 
 
 
  Compassionate, friendly, professional, and knowledgeable staff.  I hope we found our new vet for our fur babies!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Angela Thomas 
 
 
 
  My dog got great care and we didn’t feel oversold a bunch of tests and other problems that needed to be solved for.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Dana Groff 
 
 
 
  Dr. Sam is so calming, gentle, loving, and professional to my sweet Maizie! I know he treats her like his own puppy and thinks about her future health!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Cynthia Der Matoian 
 
 
 
  Very knowledgeable & friendly staff across the board! We appreciate the next day follow-up phone call to check on how our pet was doing. Easy and fast scheduling and check -out.  Well ran veterinary hospital, we will return when needed.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Keith Pickard 
 
 
 
  You couldn't find any better care, highly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Brian 
 
 
 
  Amazing Vet and staff.  Have been with Dr Sam since he first started and they have card for our dogs for over 15 years.  Their love and compassion for animals are by far the best.  The facilities are amazing and have almost everything on-site, including Xray and surgerical area.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Allyson Chance 
 
 
 
  I can’t say enough about the staff at Bliss Animal Hospital! They are all so kind and caring. They go the extra mile and never make me feel like I’m asking too many questions. I never feel like they are trying upsell me things/services I don’t need. I trust them with my babies (dogs).

      
   ""
   84 Yelp reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Yelp  
   
   E M. 
 
 
 
 Verified Outstanding first experience. Prompt, professional, personable and courteous. And reasonably priced. My little 8 yr old terrier mix who is NOT a fan of the doctor's office was the most "relaxed" he's ever been in the exam room. Bliss is now the animal hospital for this family!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Jacques P. 
 
 
 
 Verified We went to Bliss for the first time a couple of days ago. It was for a check up for our yellow lab Gracie. We found the staff to be excellent in every way. They were attentive and very caring. Gracie gets nervous going to the vet but not so here. The vet and staff took the time to make her feel comfortable. By the end of the visit she was licking their faces. The vet answered all our questions and was very patient. After our visit she sent us a detailed email letting us know what was needed to improve her diet. This was exceptional care. We will be back for sure
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Simona V. 
 
 
 
 Verified I can't recommend Bliss Animal Hospital enough, especially Dr. Nayara and the incredible team. My sphynx cat, Dobby, developed an anal gland abscess, and before goiing to Bliss, I took him to two other veterinary hospitals. Both recommended surgery under anesthesia. The problem is that Dobby has a heart condition and von Willebrand disease, so his specialists do not recommend anesthesia unless it is absolutely necessary because of the risks involved. At the other hospitals, I felt completely hopeless. I was essentially being told that if he had surgery there were significant risks because of his medical conditions, but if he didn't have surgery there were also risks if the abscess worsened or ruptured. Basically they said that this will not resolve on its own without surgical intervention and being put under anesthesia. As his mom, I felt like there was no good option and I was terrified of making the wrong decision. When I brought Dobby to Bliss Animal Hospital, everything changed. Dr. Nay took the time to carefully evaluate him instead of immediately recommending surgery. She was able to express more of the abscess, gave him a long-acting antibiotic injection, and even contacted Dobby's cardiologist to make sure the pain medication she wanted to prescribe would be safe for his heart. That level of thoroughness and teamwork meant everything to me. Because Dobby was having leakage from the abscess, he developed a severe skin burn around his rear end that looked incredibly painful. Dr. Nay recommended medical-grade Manuka honey, and it honestly worked like magic. The area healed so quickly, and it brought him so much relief. The results were incredible. The swelling continued to go down, the abscess completely resolved, and Dobby healed without needing surgery. I am beyond grateful that Dr. Nay looked at Dobby as an individual instead of taking a one-size-fits-all approach. I also want to give a special thank you to Wilma. She was so kind and compassionate with Dobby and treated him with so much love. When I needed medication for him right away, she went out of her way to help me get it as quickly as possible. That level of kindness is something I'll never forget. I'm a total mama bear when it comes to my boys, and I know I ask a million questions because I want the very best for them. Not once did anyone at Bliss Animal Hospital make me feel like I was being difficult. Every single person was patient, understanding, and genuinely cared about Dobby as if he were their own. Thank you, Dr. Nay, Wilma, and the entire team at Bliss Animal Hospital. You didn't just treat Dobby, you treated him with extraordinary compassion, respected his unique medical needs, and gave me hope when I truly felt like there wasn't any. I will always be grateful for the care you gave my sweet boy.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Shelley H. 
 
 
 
 Verified Absolutely love Bliss! We continue to have the best care. The doctors are caring and the staff is top notch! I can call with questions.. and I do that a lot.. and they always answer my questions and get back to me in a timely manner. I also love the app and I can also message on that. We are so glad that we found Bliss!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Stacy C. 
 
 
 
 Verified The staff and Dr. Sam were absolutely amazing.  I booked the wrong place for an appointment and showed up at their office an hour before they even open and Dr. Sam took Dozer and I in and helped us anyway.  The staff was incredibly helpful with getting Dozers prior vet information.   And helped us when Dozer wasn't feeling well they immediately had us come in and took a look at him and referred us to a great emergency vet.  Unfortunately Dozer didn't make it, his cancer and bleed was to much, and even with as sad and heartbreaking it all is and was, the staff at Bliss were so helpful and supportive.  I recommend anyone who has a dog or cat to take them to Bliss, you will feel very supported and well taken care of.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Scott T. 
 
 
 
 Verified I love the honest, family feeling I received. Which is why you're Moe's new veterinarian!!!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Bill M. 
 
 
 
 Verified If you are.looking for a vet this is the place for your  pet. Excellent knowledgeable and friendly. I highly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Christopher S. 
 
 
 
 Verified Bliss, its doctors and staff are amazing! we had to get our little dog spayed and it went perfectly. she acted like she didn't even know she had a procedure. staff was so helpful and caring!  The doctor did an excellent proc where Zoe was back to her normal self within 1 day (With all the care and precautions the staff advised us to do!)! Always a pleasant experience there! We highly recommend this office!
  
 
      Posted on Yelp  
   
   Melody G. 
 
 
 
 Verified Bliss Animal Hospital is the best! everyone who works there is kind and caring and we can feel the love they have for each pet.

Areas we Serve at Bliss Animal Hospital:

“Better Care. Better medicine.” This is our motto, and our veterinary staff stands behind it.

Bliss Animal Hospital is conveniently located at the Home Depot Plaza in Foothill Ranch, less than a 10-minute drive from the neighborhoods of Lake Forest, Rancho Santa Margarita, Mission Viejo, and Irvine (Great Park and Portola Springs). We also serve more distant regions like Tustin, Coto de Caza, Las Flores, Ladera Ranch, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Stonegate (Irvine), Woodbury (Irvine), and Cypress Village (Irvine).

Our vet hospital is ready to serve not only the communities of South Orange County but also anyone who truly believes that veterinary medicine starts with relationships.

Request Appointment

(949) 354-5201

Get Directions

Pet Diagnostic Imaging Services & Lab Testing in Lake Forest, CA

Comprehensive Pet Diagnostic Services in Lake Forest

High-Definition Digital X-Rays for Precise Imaging

Digital Dental X-Rays

In-House Laboratory Testing for Fast Results

Advanced Ultrasound Imaging in Lake Forest, CA

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Diagnostic Testing

Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Diagnostic Testing

Schedule Your Pet’s Diagnostic Appointment Today

Flexible Payment Options

Meet Our Veterinarians

What your neighbors are saying!

Areas we Serve at Bliss Animal Hospital:

Explore Veterinary Services in Lake Forest, CA

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