When we need to figure out what’s wrong with your pet, we routinely use X-rays to help identify the cause of the problem, rule out possible problems, or provide a list of possible causes. We may also use X-rays during a wellness exam to diagnose potential problems before they become serious.
X-rays provide valuable information about a pet’s bones, gastrointestinal tract (stomach, intestines, colon), respiratory tract (lungs), heart, and genitourinary system (bladder, prostate). We use radiology alone or in conjunction with other diagnostic tools. Interpretation of radiographs requires great skill on the part of the veterinarian.
The X-ray process can be painful, depending on the condition being diagnosed. Sometimes, we may need to sedate your pet using a short-acting anesthetic, to ensure clear images for better diagnostics. The sedative is also for the benefit of the animal regarding anxiety and pain reduction We also send all radiographs to a board-certified radiologist for diagnostic interpretation and confirmation.
Please don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions about our radiology service or what to expect during your pet’s procedure.
