Pet Ultrasound
Sheridan Animal Hospital is equipped with a full suite of advanced diagnostic tools, including pet ultrasound, to provide comprehensive care for your pet in Sheridan, MI.
What Is a Pet Ultrasound?
A pet ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses sound waves to create detailed images of your pet’s internal structures. Unlike X-rays, which are best for viewing bones, ultrasound is particularly effective for examining soft tissues such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and abdominal organs. The procedure is safe, painless, and does not involve radiation, making it an ideal choice for diagnosing various health issues.
When Is an Ultrasound Necessary?
Ultrasound is a versatile diagnostic tool that can be used in a variety of situations. At Sheridan Animal Hospital, we may recommend a pet ultrasound in Sheridan, MI, to help assess any of the following scenarios:
- Abnormal Blood Test Results: If your pet’s blood work shows irregularities, an ultrasound can help pinpoint the cause by providing a closer look at the affected organs.
- Unexplained Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite: Ultrasound can reveal underlying conditions that may be causing these symptoms, such as tumors, gastrointestinal issues, or organ dysfunction.
- Vomiting or Diarrhea: Persistent digestive issues may require an ultrasound to examine the stomach, intestines, and other abdominal organs.
- Pregnancy Monitoring: Ultrasound is a safe way to monitor a pet’s pregnancy, providing detailed images of the developing fetuses.
- Liver, Kidney, or Bladder Issues: If your pet shows signs of liver, kidney, or bladder problems, an ultrasound can help diagnose the condition and guide treatment.
The Ultrasound Procedure
The ultrasound procedure is straightforward and stress-free for your pet. During the exam, your pet will lie comfortably on a padded table while one of our veterinarians gently moves a handheld device called a transducer over the area of interest. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off your pet’s internal organs and create images on a monitor. These images provide detailed information about the size, shape, and texture of the organs, helping us identify any abnormalities.
The procedure typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the area being examined. In some cases, mild sedation may be used to help your pet relax and remain still during the exam. After the ultrasound, our veterinarians will review the images and discuss the findings with you, explaining any next steps in your pet’s care.
Benefits of Pet Ultrasounds
Pet ultrasound serves as a valuable diagnostic tool at Sheridan Animal Hospital. Some of the key benefits include:
- Non-Invasive: Ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that does not require surgery or extensive recovery time.
- Safe and Painless: The procedure is safe for pets of all ages and does not involve any discomfort or exposure to radiation.
- Accurate Diagnosis: Ultrasound provides detailed images of your pet’s internal organs, allowing for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
- Real-Time Imaging: Ultrasound allows veterinarians to observe the organs in real-time, which is particularly useful for monitoring blood flow, heart function, and pregnancies.
Why Choose Sheridan Animal Hospital for Pet Ultrasounds?
At Sheridan Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing high-quality care for your pets. Our veterinarians are experienced in performing pet ultrasounds and interpreting the results to guide your pet’s treatment. We understand that your pet’s health is important to you, and we strive to make the diagnostic process as comfortable and stress-free as possible.