Bone Marrow Aspirate in Woodland Hills, CA | VCA Veterinary Specialists of the Valley

Due to structural damage to our facility as a result of recent severe weather, all VCA Veterinary Specialists of the Valley services are CLOSED until further notice. We are saddened to say that it may be months before we are able to reopen.

Questions regarding recent visits, medications, medical record requests or other non-urgent needs may be left via voicemail at (818) 883-8387 or emailed to [email protected]. We will return messages as soon as possible, Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 6:00 pm. It may take us 24 to 48 hours to return messages.

This closure is necessary for the safety of our staff and future patients. We will post future updates as we have them.

Local 24-hour emergency and specialty facilities:

VCA West Los Angeles Animal Hospital
Los Angeles, CA 90025
(310) 473-2951

VCA Animal Specialty Group
Los Angeles, CA 90039
(818) 244-7977

VCA Animal Specialty & Emergency Center
Los Angeles, CA 90025
(310) 473-1561

ACCESS Specialty Animal Hospital
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
(818) 887-2262

TrueCare for Pets
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 760-3882

We understand this situation may be very stressful for our current patient families. We sincerely thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Bone Marrow Aspirate

Bone marrow is the location within bone where white and red blood cells are produced. Though not always indicated, bone marrow analysis can be an essential feature in the diagnosing, staging and management of your pet. The process involves the removal of a small amount of semi-liquid bone marrow, usually from the humerus (shoulder), so that abnormalities in blood cell production and cancer can be detected. To obtain a sample, a needle is introduced into the marrow space. Aspiration or the removal of a small amount of the marrow is them performed. The test is quick, lasting less than 30 seconds, but can be uncomfortable. Therefore patients are sedated or placed under a light anesthesia to insure that any discomfort can be avoided. If your pet is scheduled for a bone marrow aspirate please fast them from food beginning 12 hours prior to the procedure.