Pet Diagnostic Testing & In-House Lab in Lake Hopatcong, NJ

When a pet is unwell, the speed of a diagnosis often changes the outcome. That is why Lake Hopatcong Animal Hospital in Lake Hopatcong, NJ runs an in-house laboratory alongside digital X-ray and ultrasound, so for many tests we get answers the same visit rather than waiting days for an outside lab.

Our in-house lab performs full blood panels and fecal testing, and screens for tick-borne and parasitic diseases that matter in New Jersey, including Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichia, Heartworm, and Lyme.

Diagnostics at Every Life Stage

Puppies & Kittens

Early fecal testing catches intestinal parasites that are common in young animals, and baseline values help us track healthy development. These tests are part of the first wellness visits.

Adult Dogs & Cats

Annual heartworm and tick-borne disease screening is important in tick-heavy New Jersey, and baseline bloodwork gives us a reference point for the years ahead.

Senior Pets

Senior screening bloodwork is one of the best tools we have for catching kidney, liver, and thyroid changes before they cause obvious illness, a cornerstone of good senior care.

When Your Pet May Need Diagnostic Testing

Diagnostics are central to both routine wellness care and to sick visits. Common reasons we run testing include:

Changes in appetite or water consumption
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Unusual behavior or lethargy
Persistent coughing or difficulty breathing
Recurring vomiting or diarrhea
Pre-anesthetic clearance before surgery or dental work

Because the lab is in our building, we can often start treatment the same day rather than asking you to wait and return.

Why Families Choose Lake Hopatcong Animal Hospital

Lake Hopatcong Animal Hospital has cared for the pets of Morris and Sussex County for more than 40 years. We are a family-owned, woman-led practice that treats dogs and cats only, so every protocol, every piece of equipment, and every conversation is built around companion-animal medicine.

Our veterinary team carries decades of New Jersey practice experience. Dr. Jose A. Navarro, D.V.M. has practiced in New Jersey since 1975, and Dr. Elizabeth Z. Navarro, D.V.M. since 1976; both focus on general medicine, surgery, and dentistry. Dr. Shelli Skeels, D.V.M., licensed in New Jersey and Florida, rounds out the team. You can read what local pet owners say on our reviews page, or meet the full team here.

40+ years serving Lake Hopatcong and the surrounding towns
Family-owned and woman-led, not a corporate chain
Dogs and cats only, with an in-house lab, digital X-ray, and ultrasound
An on-site pharmacy so most prescriptions are filled before you leave
Same-day sick visits can usually be accommodated, just call ahead
10% off your first visit as a new client

Areas We Serve

We welcome dog and cat owners from Lake Hopatcong and the neighboring communities of Sparta, Netcong, Byram, Wharton, and Mine Hill, across Morris and Sussex County, NJ.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can your in-house lab test for?

Our in-house lab runs full blood panels and fecal tests, and screens for tick-borne and parasitic diseases relevant to New Jersey, including Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichia, Heartworm, and Lyme.

How fast do I get results?

Because the lab is in our building, many results are available during the same visit, which means we can often begin treatment right away instead of waiting on an outside laboratory.

Do you have X-ray and ultrasound on site?

Yes. We have digital X-ray and ultrasound in-house, which lets us evaluate bones, the chest, and the abdomen without referring you elsewhere for routine imaging.

Why does my pet need bloodwork before surgery?

Pre-anesthetic bloodwork helps confirm that organ function is normal and that your pet is a good candidate for anesthesia, making procedures like spay/neuter, surgery, and dental cleanings safer.

Do you test both dogs and cats?

Yes. As a dedicated dog-and-cat practice, our diagnostic services are designed for companion animals at every life stage.

Fast, accurate answers start here. Call to discuss your pet’s diagnostic needs.

Call (973) 663-0889 Request a Call Back

New clients save 10% off the first visit at Lake Hopatcong Animal Hospital. We care for dogs and cats across Morris and Sussex County, New Jersey.