Ultrasound facilities

We have recently acquired a portable ultrasound machine with medium-penetration curved and linear probes. An ultrasound is a safe, effective, painless imaging study that does not require anaesthesia. Images are generated using sound waves which scan the organs in the abdomen such as the liver, spleen and kidneys for disease, without the need for invasive procedures such as surgery. Ultrasound can also be used to scan the heart and chest, and is used in a wide array of species.

If you are bringing your pet in for an ultrasound scan, especially of the abdomen, please starve your pet for six hours before the procedure so that food and gas does not interfere with imaging. Water is allowed, and if your pet is having problems passing urine, then try to ensure that they have a full bladder at the time of the examination.

During the ultrasound scan, your pet will be placed in a comfortable padded holder by our nurses, who will also reassure them if they appear nervous. If your pet is distressed or very nervous, a sedative may be advised but this will be confirmed with you prior to the examination. Please be aware that we will need to shave the region of your pet that we will be scanning since fur can interfere with the results. Most ultrasound appointments take approximately 30 to 60 minutes. After the examination, the findings will be documented and discussed with your vet, who will then speak to you directly and make some recommendations.