Ultrasound and X-ray

Ultrasounds and X-rays are diagnostic tools used to examine what happens inside your pet’s vital organs and internal systems. Depending on the soft tissue, bone or structure we’re examining, either ultrasounds or X-rays will provide a better picture. Both are safe for pets, with the use of light and sound wave technologies.

When do you perform ultrasounds?

We typically recommend them to investigate the internal organs, free fluids, masses and abnormalities. Ultrasounds are especially helpful when examining internal organs and soft tissues that are not well detected by a digital X-ray. We commonly perform emergency, urinary tract, abdominal and pregnancy ultrasounds as well as examine:

• Large and Small Intestine
• Bladder
• Kidneys
• Liver
• Adrenal Glands
• Gallbladder
• Spleen
• Lymph Nodes
• Stomach

Are X-rays safe?

Digital X-rays use a small amount of radiation to capture 2-D images of your pet’s internal structures, including fractures, joint abnormalities, osteoarthritis, spinal cord, heart, lungs, urinary tract, digestive organs, cancers, tumours and foreign objects. Your pet is given a protective covering to shield any body parts not being targeted by the light rays. Pets don’t typically have side effects from this diagnostic tool because we take every precaution to ensure their safety.

Does my pet need a sedative?

Not all ultrasounds or X-rays require your pet to be sedated. Some pets can stay still throughout the picture-taking process, while others need medication to help them relax or ease any restlessness. If they need to be sedated, the area where we’ll be examining needs to be shaved. Our veterinarian and a board-certified radiologist review the results to ensure an accurate diagnosis is made. If you have questions about our diagnostic tools, please contact us at 519-661-0496.