Ultrasound and X-ray for Pets

Ultrasounds and X-rays are diagnostic imaging tools that help us assess your pet's health. They're often used as part of your pet's routine wellness exams or they could be recommended if your pet has specific health concerns. These tools allow us to make more accurate diagnoses and improve the care we provide. To learn more, please contact us at 905-877-2258.

What are X-rays?

Radiographs or X-rays provide a wealth of information about your pet's health to our veterinary team. It is often one of the first diagnostic tools we will perform when your pet is ill. An X-ray allows us to evaluate your pet's bones and internal organs (heart, liver, kidneys, spleen, etc.), gastrointestinal system (stomach, intestines, and colon), respiratory system (trachea and lungs), genitourinary system (bladder, prostate), and more. X-rays require the pet to remain motionless while the picture is taken, so sometimes we will recommend giving a short-acting sedative to receive the most accurate diagnostic X-ray.

How do ultrasounds work?

Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to obtain a detailed real-time image of your pet's organs and other structures inside their body. It is a non-painful and non-invasive procedure that can often be done without sedation. Ultrasonography does not use radiation and has no known side effects.

Which images do ultrasounds capture?

Ultrasound imaging can evaluate organ systems such as the liver, gallbladder, spleen, kidneys, stomach, gastrointestinal system, and more. Additionally, lumps or growths felt in the abdomen can be better visualized and even sampled through the use of ultrasound. In an emergency, ultrasound can be a valuable tool for detecting the presence of free fluid in the abdomen or chest.