What Is A Pet Ultrasound?

Ultrasonography to diagnose PVE patients

Ultrasound is a specific type of diagnostic equipment available at Perth Vet Emergency. We use this to see structures in pet’s bodies such as organs like the bladder, kidney, heart, intestines, and even puppies or kittens during pregnancies.

Ultrasonography is most useful in fluid filled matter and less effective with bones or air-filled organs like the lungs.

What happens during an ultrasound?

On some occasions the pet will be lightly sedated however this is rarely the case. If a pet is anxious or in pain, sedation may be beneficial to minimise their stress and make the procedure as quick as possible.

Clipping is often required for ultrasound. If the hair or fur obstructs the ultrasound waves it can prevent us from getting the best possible view.

How does an ultrasound work?

Ultrasound is painless and non-intrusive. It is a machine that uses high frequency sound waves, which humans cannot hear, to see what’s happening internally.

A hand-held device is placed to your pet’s body to emit the sound waves painlessly. Some of these sound waves are absorbed by tissues and bones while others bounce back creating an image of the area.  This image gives us vital information about your pet’s inner workings so we can determine the best treatment plan for their injury, illness or pregnancy.

Ultrasonography, and the sound waves emitted, are safe for your pet. The procedure is fast and there is no stress to the fur-patient as the environment is quiet, comfortable and they’re usually lapping up the free pats on offer by a nurse while the veterinarian completes the scan.

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