Blood Smear for Blood Parasites

About this test

A drop of blood is stained and examined under the microscope for the parasites ticks spread, such as Babesia, Ehrlichia and Hepatozoon, and for changes in the blood cells. It is quick and cheap, and a positive smear starts treatment at once; a clear smear doesn't rule tick fever out, which is what the Tick Fever Panel is for.

What it measures

• Blood parasites (Babesia, Ehrlichia, Hepatozoon, Anaplasma)
• Red and white cell appearance

Good to know

• Parasites are often too few to see between bouts of fever, so a clear smear in a sick dog is followed up with the panel.