X-rays
Radiographs (also known as x-rays) play a crucial role in diagnosing diseases in animals, especially those involving bones, the chest, or the abdomen. Therefore, most pets requiring x-rays will need to be admitted for the day. Consequently, please bring your pet in unfed on the morning of admission, as we will likely sedate or anesthetize them to ensure we capture the highest quality radiographs.
After taking the radiographs, we will either call you or schedule an appointment to review the images with you. During this follow-up, we will discuss the diagnosis and treatment plan for your pet.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds are ideal for imaging soft or fluid-filled organs, such as the liver, kidneys, bladder, and heart. Depending on the specifics of the ultrasound, we might need to admit your pet to the hospital for the day. Additionally, we will shave the area to be scanned, so your pet may look different when they come home.
During the scan, we apply a water-soluble gel to the clipped area and then place a transducer (probe) on the skin. Once we complete the scan, we will either call you or schedule an appointment to review the images and discuss the diagnosis and treatment plan for your pet.
Pregnancy X-ray and Ultrasound
To satisfy curiosity and allow for proper preparations for new arrivals, it is essential to confirm pregnancy. In this regard, an ultrasound performed 4 to 5 weeks after mating offers an easy way to diagnose dog pregnancy early. However, while an ultrasound will confirm pregnancy, it cannot determine the number of puppies present. For that purpose, X-rays can be used. Nevertheless, keep in mind that the skeletons only appear on X-ray starting at week 8.
Endoscopy
An endoscope is a rigid or flexible tube equipped with a video camera that transmits live footage to a connected screen. Consequently, your veterinary doctor can use the endoscope to visually examine your pet’s lower gastrointestinal tract and respiratory tract. This approach eliminates the need for invasive surgery, providing a less invasive alternative for thorough examination.