Ultrasound and X-ray Services

Ultrasound and X-ray are common diagnostic tools we use at our clinic. Both are pain-free and non-invasive procedures that provide images of your pet’s internal organs and structures. Radiographs provide valuable information about your furry friend’s bones, stomach, intestines, colon, lungs, heart, bladder and prostate. Ultrasounds, on the other hand, are used to evaluate soft tissue. This could be the liver, kidney, gallbladder to detect fluids, tumours, cysts, abscesses and pregnancies. Our staff has received special training to interpret the results from both procedures to ensure that your pet gets an accurate diagnosis.

How do ultrasounds and X-ray work in pets?

X-ray

Radiographs use a small amount of radiation to penetrate hard tissues. This means that owners are not permitted in the room. The small amount of radiation used in the procedure is safe for your pet, but as an extra precaution, we provide a cover to protect the other parts of your pet’s body, which aren’t the focus. Light rays are targeted on a particular area to get the images, and the hard organs and bones absorb the rays. As the rays are absorbed, images are taken of the structures or organs.

Ultrasound

To get a clear image of the soft tissues, our team may shave the fur from the targeted area on your pet. A trained Ultrasonographer will apply gel to the area then wave the transducer over the areas of interest. The transducer sends sound waves that echo and create detailed images which are shown on the computer.

To get a more accurate result, both procedures may be used together along with other diagnostic methods. If you have more questions about our ultrasonography and X-ray service, please contact us at 519-641-8383.

Will my pet be sedated during an ultrasound or X-ray?

Sedation or anesthesia is not typically required for these procedures. In some instances where pets aren’t relaxed, we may sedate them or use short-acting general anesthesia. Otherwise, our veterinary team works gently with our patients to gain their trust and to make them feel as comfortable as possible.