X-ray scans, also known as radiography, is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses low doses of radiation to create images of the internal structures of the body. X-rays pass through the body, and the different densities of tissues and organs absorb the radiation, creating a shadow-like image on a film or digital detector. X-ray beams produce energy that is absorbed by mineralised tissues (like teeth or bones) in a patient’s body, which creates a radiographic image we can interpret. This is especially useful for diagnosing things like fractures and arthritic changes within the bones and joints, as well as for teeth when we are performing dental procedures. Sometimes we can see abnormalities within soft tissues and organs such as the bladder, heart and lungs, and we can often find gastrointestinal foreign bodies (especially those that contain metal) in their stomach or intestines.
They are commonly used for:
Ultrasound, also known as ultrasonography, is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the internal structures of the body. These sound waves bounce off tissues and organs, producing detailed images on a screen, and allowing veterinarians to visualise internal structures in great detail.
What do we use it for?
In veterinary medicine, ultrasound is a versatile tool used for various purposes in pets, including:
Most of our patients are admitted into hospital for the day to have an ultrasound scan done, unless it is an emergency and we’ll do it immediately. We ask that you bring your pet in unfed on the morning of admission, as they may need to be sedated to allow us to do the best scan possible.
The area to be scanned will be shaved, so your pet may look different when they come home. No pain is felt during an ultrasound exam, however, discomfort from pressure may be experienced. Sedatives may be necessary for those animals that won’t stay still or are uncomfortable. During the scan a water-soluble gel is applied over the clipped area to be examined and a transducer (probe) is placed on the skin.
Once the scan has been completed we will give you a call or book an appointment for our veterinarians to show you the images and to discuss the diagnosis and treatment plan for your pet.
This can vary depending on what sort of imaging we’re doing. For most X-rays and abdominal ultrasounds, we recommend and try to use a light sedation – your pet will still be conscious, but just very relaxed and comfortable! There are a few reasons for this- firstly, we take our fear-free practices really seriously and never want to pin or hold your pet down in an uncomfortable position for something it doesn’t understand. If they’re fully awake and moving around, it also makes it really difficult to take good-quality, diagnostic images - which means it’s easier to miss things. And last but not least, our staff carry out dozens of these procedures every week – the last thing we want to be doing is exposing them to a lot of unnecessary radiation!
For a CT scan, your pet will be fully anaesthetised- if you’ve had one of these before you’ll know how still you need to remain for it, which is tricky, to say the least even with the most relaxed of our furry patients!
If there’s any reason you’re worried about your pet undergoing sedation or anaesthesia, please have a chat with your vet at your next visit. There are lots of steps we take to ensure it’s done with the highest safety standards, and we always tailor our medication protocols to each individual patient depending on any underlying health conditions they may have.
Our diverse array of tests includes:
Our comprehensive range of clinical pathology services is performed using cutting-edge lab equipment, with most biochemistry analyses and full blood count tests conducted onsite, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. From comprehensive blood tests and informative urinalysis to meticulous evaluations of faecal samples and the thorough scrutiny of biopsy specimens, each facet of our approach significantly contributes to safeguarding the well-being of your cherished companions.
Why are Blood Tests Necessary for Pets?
Our furry companions can't communicate when they're not feeling well. While regular veterinary check-ups, proper nutrition, and deworming are essential, they might not always reveal the internal functioning of your pet's organs. Among the various health assessments, blood tests stand out as highly diagnostic. They offer precise and timely insights into your pet's overall health.
What Insights Can Blood Tests Provide?
Blood tests delve into the performance of organs, the immune system, and the presence or activity of diseases. Some tests are designed to stimulate or suppress specific organs, enabling in-depth functional evaluations. Modern tests can even explore your pet's genetic makeup for potential diseases or infections.
Typical tests assess the liver, kidneys, and pancreas functions. Enzyme levels can also be examined, shedding light on possible muscle damage and inflammation. Analysis of red and white blood cells reveals hydration levels, anemia, inflammation or infection indicators, and your pet's immune responses.
When Might Your Pet Need a Blood Test?
There are various reasons your pet might require a blood test. These tests are valuable for identifying issues before administering anaesthesia, disease screening, identifying breed-specific ailments, or monitoring the effects of certain medications. For additional pre-operative information, click here.
How Frequently Should Pets Undergo Blood Tests?
Factors like your pet's age and health condition play a role in determining the need for blood tests. Conducting blood tests before anaesthesia, especially if any problems are suspected, is advisable. Due to pets aging much faster than humans (about seven years for every human year), an annual screening to catch developing conditions early is highly recommended.
How Are Blood Tests Conducted?
Blood tests can be seamlessly performed during a routine consultation. Your veterinarian will trim a small patch of hair from your pet's limb or neck and disinfect the area with an alcohol swab. A tiny amount of blood is collected using a syringe needle, and then carefully placed into specialised tubes for processing, either on-site or at an external laboratory. Thankfully, animals typically don't seem to feel the needles as humans do, making the process quick and painless.
What is Urinalysis?
Urinalysis is the examination of your pet's urine to evaluate its physical and chemical properties. The process involves analysing various components of the urine, including its colour, clarity, specific gravity, pH level, and presence of proteins, glucose, ketones, and other substances. Additionally, we look for the presence of red and white blood cells and bacteria, which can indicate potential infections or kidney issues.
What Do We Use It For?
Urinalysis is a vital diagnostic tool that helps us understand the health of your pet's urinary system and can provide valuable insights into potential underlying health conditions. A urinalysis is a valuable tool in diagnosing a wide range of health conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney disease, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. It also helps us monitor the response to treatment for certain conditions and assess your pet's overall kidney function.
Our experienced veterinary team utilises advanced equipment and techniques to perform a comprehensive urinalysis, ensuring accurate results and prompt diagnosis. We take the time to explain the significance of the test results to you and discuss any necessary follow-up actions or treatments.
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