Ultrasounds and X-Rays

Our facility is equipped with emergency diagnostic tools that show us what’s happening in your pet’s body. These tools detect injuries, diseases, and abnormalities by capturing an image of a pet’s organs and bones. These tests are harmless and don’t often require medical intervention. Once completed, we will discuss a treatment plan that best supports your pet. To learn more about our radiology care, call us at 403-995-3270.

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

These tests do not hurt your pet. However, if your pet is anxious or in pain from their medical condition they may move a lot. This makes it difficult to capture an image of your pet’s internal system. In this case, we will provide a sedative or anesthesia to calm them or reduce their discomfort. In addition, when we take an X-ray, your pet is protected from radiation with gear that covers their entire body except for the afflicted area.

What’s the difference between all of these diagnostic tools?

Each diagnostic tool has its own strength. The test we choose to use on your pet depends on their symptoms. Below are some details outlining their individual purpose:

• X-rays, also known as radiographs, use electromagnetic radiation to capture an image of your pet’s internal system. They provide a silhouette of your pet’s bones and organs and can also see pockets of air or liquid in their lungs. This means X-rays can also see if your pet has swallowed something they should not have.
• Ultrasounds provide a sharper image than X-rays. They can capture growths or abnormalities in your pet’s heart, intestines, and joints. This procedure involves gel placed on your pet’s skin and a probe that roams over your pet’s body. A 3D visual of your pet’s afflicted area is presented on a screen, producing immediate results. Many people are familiar with these tests being used for pregnancies.
• Cardiac Ultrasound, also known as an echocardiogram, is a specialized type of ultrasound and is recommended when a veterinarian hears a heart murmur or other abnormal sounds when listening to the heart.
• CT scan, or a computed tomography scan, takes highly concentrated X-rays around the patient’s body and produces slices, which are images. ​These images are placed on top of each other to form a more detailed visual of your pet’s condition. A CT scan uses a large, tubular X-ray that stays in place as the patient is moved through the center of it. This shows us their organs, tissues or bones.

In some cases, we take a series or combination of tests to narrow down the cause of their medical complication. Our veterinarians must be thorough in order to properly diagnose and treat your pet.

How do I get an appointment for an ultrasound?

1. Your primary care veterinarian can refer your pet for an ultrasound via our diagnostic referral form.
2. If you bring your pet through our urgent care department and your pet would benefit from an ultrasound, we will form a treatment plan that best suits your pet’s needs. If you approve the treatment plan, your pet will be booked for the ultrasound. The date of the ultrasound is determined based on urgency. In some cases, the ultrasound will need to be performed the same day.

If you have any questions or concerns about the process, call us at 403-995-3270.