What is an Ultrasound?

An ultrasound, or sonogram, is a non-invasive technique that uses sound waves to capture images inside the patient’s body. Unlike x-rays, which only capture a two dimensional picture, ultrasound allows the veterinarian to look inside each of the organs and to see things that an x-ray might miss. Ultrasound is therefore very useful for finding, tumors, infections, blockages, or foreign objects inside the body. Ultrasound does not penetrate through air though, so ultrasound is less useful for looking at the lungs and other organs that may contain gas (like the colon).

Preparing For Your Pet’s Ultrasound Examination

It is especially important that your pet is FASTED for this examination.  Please take away access to all food and treats the night before the appointment.  Failure to do so may result in the need to reschedule.  However, your pet may continue to drink water up until the appointment time.

A full urinary bladder is ideal for ultrasound imaging.  We realize it is not always possible to prevent your pet from urinating right before the appointment.  However, when possible we ask that your pet remain in the car with you until we come out to get them to lessen the likelihood that they void their bladder. This is especially important for kidney/urinary studies.

Once in our office your pet with be gently laid in a comfortable position on their side and shaved for the exam.  Ultrasound gel is applied to the shaved area and an ultrasound probe is used to gather the images and video clips. Our exams take about 60 minutes to complete.

Most pets tolerate ultrasound exam very well and do not need any sedation.  However, in patients that are very wiggly, panting too heavily, or vocalizing frequently, we may ask your permission to give a mild sedative to assure we capture the most detailed images possible. Your pet will not be given any sedatives or medications without your prior approval.

When the examination is complete, the ultrasound get will be wiped off of your pet and they will be escorted back out to your car.  One of our doctors will come out to discuss the of the ultrasound findings.  More detailed information and next steps will be emailed to your usual veterinarian within 24 hours of the exam. You will be able to access your ultrasound images any time in the future from your patient portal which can be accessed via our website animalimagingMI.com