We offer abdominal ultrasound and other associated diagnostic testing (cytology and/or biopsy if needed). Our hospital provides sonographer assisted ultrasounds and board-certified veterinary radiologist interpretation. The radiologist’s review of the ultrasound is usually available within 24-48 hours (or if more urgent, within a few hours). This allows our hospital to be able to provide a board-certified veterinary radiologist interpretation without your pet having to be referred to a more expensive specialty hospital for this service.
Ultrasounds are commonly used in pets for a variety of conditions, including follow-up to abnormal bloodwork, vomiting or diarrhea, unusual weight loss or recurring infections, urinary problems, and cancer screening just to name a few. Ultrasound can compliment radiographs in many cases (ultrasound does not replace the need for radiographs nor vice versa).
The cost of an ultrasound is typically higher than the cost of radiographs due to the fact that specialized training is required in order to interpret the images and a significant amount of time is involved in carrying out the ultrasound examination. In some cases, a sedative is needed to help relax a pet due to them having to be laying on their back for a significant period of time. In most cases, a large area of fur on the abdomen will need to be shaved to allow for better visualization of internal organs. The usefulness of ultrasound for evaluation of the internal organs makes it an invaluable, non-invasive diagnostic tool to help try to protect your pet’s well-being.
**PLEASE NOTE: This service is ONLY available Monday through Friday before 3 pm.
This ultrasound image shows a liver tumor in a dog, demonstrating how our advanced ultrasound technology allows us to detect and measure internal growths. Identifying masses like this helps guide treatment decisions and improve your pet’s health outcomes.