Ultrasound
When a pet is sick or injured, the first step to providing treatment is diagnosis. At Bramalea Animal Hospital, we use a suite of advanced veterinary diagnostic tools, including ultrasound, to obtain an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s illness or injury so that we can safely and effectively address the problem.
What Is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a high-pitched sound wave – so high-pitched that not even dogs can hear it. An ultrasound machine sends ultrasonic vibrations through the body. These soundwaves then hit objects and bounce back where they are recorded and translated into an image.
Like an x-ray image, an ultrasound enables us to view the internal structures of your pet’s body. However, if an x-ray is like a picture, then an ultrasound can be compared to a movie.
An ultrasound, also called a sonogram, is a moving image that allows us to view your pet’s internal body parts in real-time, as they move and function.
How Do Veterinarians Use Ultrasound?
Veterinarians use ultrasound imaging in a variety of ways. It can be useful in detecting and diagnosing all sorts of diseases, evaluating injuries, assisting with surgeries, and monitoring pregnancy.
What to Expect During Your Pet's Ultrasound Appointment
Ultrasound is non-invasive and pain-free, and usually requires no need for sedating pets. In fact, the ultrasound wand delivers gentle warmth, and most pets become quite relaxed during their appointments.
To prepare your pet for their ultrasound, we typically shave off a small patch of fur directly above the targeted imaging location. Then, we apply a small amount of gel to your pet’s skin which allows the ultrasound wand to transmit its sound waves seamlessly. We then gently move the ultrasound wand over your pet’s skin, recording the sonogram.
After your pet’s ultrasound appointment is complete, our veterinarian and visiting veterinary radiologist will evaluate the sonogram and talk with you about your pet’s results.
Diagnostic Imaging at Bramalea Animal Hospital
With in-house digital radiology and our travelling ultrasound specialist, Bramalea Animal Hospital is fully equipped to evaluate, diagnose, and treat sick and injured pets. To learn more about veterinary ultrasound, digital x-rays, or to schedule an appointment for your pet, we welcome you to contact our office today.
