Pet Ultrasound
Ultrasound Imaging with Expert Vets
When veterinarians need a peek inside your pet, we may use ultrasound.
Ultrasound is a non-invasive, pain-free diagnostic tool that the team at River Rock Animal Hospital uses to examine your pet’s internal organs and structures in real time. We use this diagnostic tool as part of our commitment to providing thorough medical care for pets. If you’re seeking diagnostic clarity for an unexpected pet health concern or confirming a new litter of puppies or kittens, our team provides gentle imaging care to guide your pet’s wellness.
Veterinary Ultrasound Diagnostics
A pet ultrasound is an imaging procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate real-time images of your pet’s internal body systems, most commonly the abdominal organs. Unlike X-rays, which provide static images, ultrasound is used to observe movement and function, making it especially useful for evaluating soft tissues inside your pet.
Common reasons we may recommend a veterinary ultrasound include:
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal swelling or pain
- Abnormal bloodwork or urine test results
- Suspected tumors or masses
- Changes in appetite or behavior
During an abdominal pet ultrasound, we examine areas like the liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, stomach, intestines, pancreas, and reproductive organs for internal issues. Ultrasounds will not require that your pet be sedated in most cases. Shaving a small patch of fur may be necessary, but it depends on the area being examined and your individual pet.
Ultrasound technology is a powerful way to gain insight into what’s happening beneath the surface, enabling our veterinarians to make confident, informed treatment decisions for your pet’s health.
Pregnancy Checks for Pets
If you’re planning for a litter or think that your pet may be pregnant, our veterinary ultrasound services at River Rock Animal Hospital include pet pregnancy checks. Veterinary pregnancy scans are typically performed at 25 days or more post-breeding for the most accurate results, and we recommend that you contact us for appropriate timing.
Our pet pregnancy ultrasounds can confirm pregnancy and estimate litter size, as well as evaluate fetal development. Ultrasound is the safest and most comfortable method for monitoring pregnancy in pets. This kind of imaging allows for early detection of viable pregnancies and provides reassurance to pet owners.
No matter whether you’re a seasoned breeder or it’s your first time expecting a litter, our experienced team will guide your pet’s journey with pregnancy checks.
Ultrasound Imaging for Diagnosing Pets
River Rock Animal Hospital combines advanced diagnostic tools like ultrasound technology with a compassionate touch. Our pet ultrasound services keep your pet’s comfort and health in mind from start to finish.
We know it can be stressful not knowing what’s wrong with your pet, and we’re here to provide answers. If your veterinarian has recommended an ultrasound, trust our experienced team to deliver clear results, kind handling, and expert medical insight. Let’s work together to uncover what your pet needs to feel better. Schedule a consultation or ask your vet about our veterinary ultrasound services today.
Ultrasound FAQs
Preparing your pet for an ultrasound depends on the area being examined and the reason for the procedure. For certain ultrasounds, our veterinarians require withholding food for several hours beforehand to improve image clarity. Preparation instructions vary, so please follow the specific instructions provided before your pet’s appointment.
Veterinary ultrasound can show abnormal masses, growths, or changes in internal organs that may indicate cancer. However, an ultrasound alone typically cannot determine whether a mass is cancerous. Additional diagnostic testing, such as bloodwork or a biopsy, will be needed to reach a diagnosis.
An abdominal ultrasound is sometimes used by veterinarians to identify signs of an intestinal blockage, including abnormal intestinal movement, fluid buildup, or changes in the appearance of the digestive tract. Other times, X-rays are used to visualize a blockage. Contact River Rock Animal Hospital during our business hours if you suspect your pet has swallowed something or is showing signs of a blockage. We can direct you on whether to come in for an appointment or refer you to a local animal ER.
Yes, River Rock Animal Hospital offers pregnancy scans to determine whether your pet is expecting. If you suspect your pet is pregnant or are planning to breed your female pet, contact us at (989) 750-7222 to discuss the best time to schedule a pregnancy examination.