Book excerpt: This book provides the veterinary practitioner with an explanation of the meaning of laboratory results (biochemical, haematological and urinary) in the diagnosis of disorders in small animals. It enables veterinary surgeons in small animal practice to interpret the results of those laboratory tests that are commonly performed in order to arrive at a diagnosis or prognosis. Research has shown that this is one skill in which many veterinarians believe themselves to be deficient and would welcome guidance. This volume explains the possible meanings of the values that could be obtained. The book covers the areas of haematology, plasma/serum biochemistry and urinalysis. Advice is given on the influence of drugs, sample collection and handling, how to check the accuracy of results, how to assess the reliability of a laboratory and the additional tests that would be indicated to confirm a diagnosis together with normal reference ranges and conversion ranges