Why Your Pet May Require an Ultrasound
Ultrasound, or sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of your pet's internal organs and structures. During the procedure, a handheld device called a transducer is gently moved over the area being examined. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off internal structures, and the returning echoes are captured and translated into live images on a monitor.
Pet ultrasound is safe, painless, and does not involve radiation, making it a preferred diagnostic tool for a variety of conditions. Most pets tolerate the procedure well, and it typically takes only 20 to 30 minutes. Depending on the area being examined, your pet may need to have their fur shaved to allow contact between the transducer and their skin. Sedation is required only in rare cases where your pet is unable to keep still due to pain or temperament.
An ultrasound result provides detailed images of soft tissues, which makes it invaluable for diagnosing conditions that affect your pet's internal organs. Our veterinarians may recommend an ultrasound for: