Ultrasounds and X-rays (radiographs) are diagnostic imaging technologies that help us get a picture of your pet’s internal health. Both are useful tools that support us in providing your pet with an accurate diagnosis. If you have questions about your pet’s upcoming ultrasound or X-ray, please contact us at 519-624-9760.

What’s the difference between an ultrasound and X-rays?

Ultrasound uses sound wave technology to create images of the specific body part the handheld probe is moving across. X-rays use electromagnetic waves to generate images of your pet’s internal structures. Both are safe imaging technologies that make a difference in helping us have more accurate diagnosis for your pet.

What does an X-ray help you see?

X-rays are great for seeing your pet’s bones and some soft tissue structures. Because ultrasound waves cannot travel through bone or air, X-rays are very important for imaging areas of the body that contain these, such as the lungs, inside the pelvis, etc. We take X-ray safety very seriously and therefore sedate the vast majority of our patients during X-ray imaging so that our wonderful employees are not repeatedly exposed to X-ray radiation.

What medical issues can an ultrasound diagnose?

Ultrasound is a very valuable diagnostic modality when used for the right cases. It can be used by the general practitioner to identify fluid in both the abdomen and chest cavities, and, in the hands of technicians with speciality training, much more specific diagnoses can be made. We are lucky to have access to highly trained radiology specialists who interpret the images that these technicians take and provide us with the observed abnormalities, most likely causes, and best next steps.

Ultrasound can aid in the diagnosis of medical issues like:

• Bladder stones/masses

• Abdominal masses in the liver, kidneys, spleen etc.

• Confirming pregnancy

• Pyometra (uterus infection)

• Free abdominal or chest fluid

• Lung disease