Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging tool that looks at organs, structures, and tissues inside the body. It creates images by bouncing sound waves off different parts of the body. Harvest Pointe Animal Hospital is pleased to offer this test in hospital for our patients!
Why is an ultrasound done?
- Look at the size, shape, and texture of organs
- Investigate abnormal blood test results
- Identify masses or cysts inside the body
- Diagnosis of pregnancy
- Evaluate reproductive tract disease
How is an ultrasound done?
An ultrasound is recommended by your veterinarian as part of a diagnostic work-up. The imaging is done in clinic by one of our ultrasound trained registered veterinary technologists or veterinarians.
Your pet may be given a light sedative to help them relax for the scan. This helps to make sure they don’t feel any stress or discomfort and it also helps us obtain better quality images.
Diagnostic Imaging With Compassionate Care
For the best images, we will shave some fur so that that ultrasound transducer is in direct contact with the skin. We also apply ultrasound gel or alcohol. But don’t worry! Once the scan is done, we make sure every patient is cleaned up and comfy again.
Once we have collected all the images or videos we need, we send them to a board certified veterinary radiologist for interpretation. This is a veterinarian with additional training in interpreting diagnostic images. When the results are back, your veterinarian will review them with you and discuss next steps.
Have Questions About Ultrasound for Your Pet?
If your pet has been recommended for an ultrasound or you’re unsure whether this diagnostic test is the right next step, our team is here to help. We’ll walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you understand what to expect so you can feel confident in your pet’s care plan.
