Ultrasound and X-ray Services for Pets
Ultrasounds and X-rays are a great way for us to find out important information about your pet’s health. They are a cost-effective and non-invasive means of diagnosing several kinds of conditions and health issues in our patients. At Pacific Rim Veterinary Hospital, we offer in-house ultrasound and X-ray services for our patients, and use these diagnostic tools whenever necessary.
What is the difference between ultrasound and X-ray?
X-rays allow veterinary teams to produce images of the inside of your pet’s body. X-rays can evaluate dense structures such as bones and air-filled internal organs like the lungs. They are also, typically, more inexpensive in comparison to other diagnostic tools. Ultrasound, on the other hand, can be used to evaluate softer tissue organs (e.g. heart, liver, kidneys) and even smaller structures like lymph nodes. Ultrasound and X-rays are often used in combination to diagnose diseases and treat various health issues.
Do cats/dogs/pets feel pain during ultrasounds and X-rays?
Not at all. Both procedures are pain-free and we ensure that your pet will be safe and comfortable all throughout the process. Sometimes, we choose to sedate cats and dogs as this calms patients who are particularly anxious, and increases the likelihood of getting high-quality scans.
Why would a pet need ultrasound or X-ray?
The need for these tools depends on your pet’s specific case and your particular concern. Oftentimes, these tools are used to diagnose and address the following circumstances and health conditions:
Foreign items ingested by your pet:
Please contact us ASAP if you think that your pet may need these diagnostic tools or any other medical services. Our team will be more than happy to answer any of your questions and take a closer look at your pet’s condition during a scheduled appointment.