Pet Radiology and Ultrasounds
Although many pet issues are relatively simple to assess and diagnose, some need a higher level of investigation. For this reason, we offer expert in-house diagnostics to our clients and their pets, so they don’t need to wait for a time-consuming referral at a potentially worrying time.
What are radiography and ultrasound diagnostic services?
Pet radiography is the medical name for x-rays, and our team of vets uses these when they want to check for certain conditions. The procedure is pain-free and non-invasive, and the vet can use the x-ray to assess bones, lungs, the heart and other vital organs. During the radiography screening, a beam is directed at the pet to create a final image. Depending on the tissue in question, the x-rays will either be blocked or pass through it, creating that final familiar image.
We usually apply sedation before carrying out pet radiography, not because the process itself is painful, but because we want to ensure your pet is as relaxed and comfortable as possible. Often, we need to gently manipulate an animal to get an accurate scan and to assess a bone fracture or potentially painful condition. The sedation helps to minimise anxiety and any pain.
Pet ultrasound is used to show issues that might not be evident on an x-ray. Ultrasounds can, for example, assess the internal structure of the organs of the body such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, intestines, and adrenal glands. In addition, ultrasound can allow examination of the functional capability of the heart. The procedure uses high-frequency sound, rather than x-rays, to create a picture of what’s going on internally, and again, it’s completely non-invasive. In order to perform an ultrasound, one of our team will help to hold and reassure your pet, though sometimes a light sedation is required. We do have to shave the area of the body that is being scanned so that the resulting image is sufficiently clear enough.
This type of scan is used commonly too to assess pregnancy and to check tendons, muscles and glands. It’s also possible to use ultrasound on the eyes in some instances, proving just how powerful and valuable the technology is!
Why do we offer radiography and ultrasound in-house?
By offering these services in-house, we can see our clients and their pets without delay. It’s slow, expensive and often inconvenient to make and attend an external referral service, so we’ve invested in these procedures to offer our clients an end-to-end service as part of our package of wraparound, holistic pet care.
Get in touch to find out more
The first step to finding out whether your pet could benefit from an x-ray or ultrasound procedure is to contact our practice. Whether you’re keen to know more about the service, worried about your pet or simply have questions about what we offer, our friendly team will be here to assist and advise. We’re a family practice with a superb reputation, a strong set of values and a committed team that understands how worrying it can be when your pet is unwell or in pain. Our experts are here to help. Contact us today via the method that best suits you on 9980 1800.