Digital radiographs (X-rays) are a type of imaging that our veterinarians use to diagnose broken bones, tumors, internal injuries, and infection. Digital radiographs provide the highest quality, distortion-free images and because we can quickly manipulate the images we obtain, there is often less need for multiple radiographs. We have the results of digital radiographs within seconds, allowing our team to identify the problem sooner and provide treatment much more quickly than standard X-rays. To achieve the best possible images and keep your pet calm, we may need to give your pet a sedative. Digital radiographs also allow our team to easily and quickly consult with veterinary radiology specialists across the country.
In addition to digital radiography, we perform ultrasonography (ultrasound), a type of imaging used to examine your pet’s soft tissues (muscles, internal organs, and surrounding tissues). Ultrasonography is often used in conjunction with another diagnostic testing to determine the cause of your pet’s symptoms. We often use ultrasound to help guide us while obtaining a sterile urine sample and assess the health of your pet’s bladder at the same time.
Local board-certified specialists consult with us at PawSteps Veterinary Center. They can provide detailed abdominal ultrasounds and echo-cardiograms to our patients in our hospital, limiting the need for your pet to travel to an emergency center. Our staff can assist these specialists, giving you the peace of mind that your pet is in the trusted hands of people you know and have worked closely. During these procedures, both our doctors and the specialists are able to discuss your pet’s care face to face to come up with a diagnosis and treatment plan.