Diagnostic Imaging for Dogs: What You Need to Know
At Willowbrook Veterinary Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic imaging to help diagnose and treat medical conditions in dogs. Whether your pet needs an X-ray for a suspected broken bone or an ultrasound for internal issues, our team is here to provide accurate, timely results.
Types of Diagnostic Imaging Available for Dogs
Veterinarians use several types of imaging to assess a dog’s health:
X-rays (Radiographs)
• Best for detecting fractures, arthritis, and lung or heart conditions.
• Non-invasive and commonly used in veterinary medicine.
Ultrasound
• Used for soft tissue evaluations, pregnancy monitoring, and detecting fluid buildup or organ abnormalities.
• Provides real-time imaging of internal organs.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
• Best for brain, spinal cord, and joint issues.
• Produces detailed images of soft tissues.
CT Scan (Computed Tomography)
• Used for detecting tumors, complex fractures, and nasal or chest conditions.
• Provides cross-sectional, high-resolution images of bones and soft tissues.
When Does a Dog Need Diagnostic Imaging?
Your veterinarian may recommend imaging for:
- Pregnancy: Ultrasounds help monitor fetal development.
- Abdominal Obstructions: X-rays and ultrasounds can detect foreign objects.
- Broken Bones: X-rays are essential for diagnosing fractures.
- Torn Ligaments: MRIs and X-rays can help evaluate ligament damage, such as ACL tears.
Bloodwork Abnormalities: Advanced imaging including ultrasound can help identify abnormalities in organs that are causing changes on bloodwork
What Do Veterinarians Look for on Diagnostic Images?
Veterinarians analyze images to check for:
• Fractures, dislocations, or bone deformities.
• Tumors, cysts, or abnormal growths.
• Organ size, shape, and function.
• Internal bleeding, infections, or obstructions.
Which Diagnostic Imaging Tool Is the Most Accurate?
It depends on what we are evaluating. X-rays are best for bones and identifying obstructions within the GI tract. Ultrasounds are best for evaluating for the presence of abnormal fluid, the presence of tumors and other abnormalities within the organs. MRIs are the most detailed for soft tissue injuries, while CT scans provide the most precise cross-sectional images.
How Do Veterinarians Decide Which Imaging to Use?
Your dog’s symptoms, medical history, and the area of concern will determine which imaging tool is best. For example, a suspected broken leg will need an X-ray, while a potential tumor might require a CT scan or MRI.
Can More Than One Imaging Tool Be Used for Diagnosis?
Yes, veterinarians may use multiple imaging tools for a clearer diagnosis. For example, if an X-ray shows a possible mass, an ultrasound or CT scan may be needed to get more detail.
How Long Does It Take to Get Imaging Results?
• X-rays & Ultrasounds: Results are usually available the same day or within 24 hours.
• CT Scans & MRIs: These may take 24-48 hours, especially if a specialist is reviewing the images.
Will My Dog Need Sedation for Imaging?
• X-rays & Ultrasounds: Most dogs do not need sedation unless they are anxious or in pain.
• CT Scans & MRIs: These require sedation or anesthesia to keep your dog still for clear images.
Does Diagnostic Imaging Hurt My Dog?
No, diagnostic imaging is non-invasive and painless. If sedation is required, we ensure your dog’s safety and comfort throughout the procedure.
What to Expect When Your Dog Undergoes Imaging
• Your dog may need to lie still on a table.
• If sedation is needed, they will be monitored throughout the process.
• The procedure duration varies:
• X-rays: A few minutes
• Ultrasound: 20-30 minutes.
• CT Scan/MRI: 30-90 minutes.
What Are Baseline Diagnostic Images, and Why Are They Recommended?
Baseline images provide a reference point for your dog’s normal anatomy and help track any future changes. These are especially useful for senior dogs or breeds prone to certain conditions.
Does My Dog Need Special Preparation for Imaging?
Preparation depends on the type of imaging:
• X-rays: No special prep required.
• Ultrasound: Fasting may be needed for better image clarity.
• MRI/CT Scan: Fasting and anesthesia may be required.
Can I Stay with My Dog During Imaging?
For safety reasons and legal limitations, pet parents cannot stay in the imaging room during X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
What If Imaging Doesn’t Provide a Diagnosis?
If initial imaging is inconclusive, further tests such as bloodwork, biopsies, or advanced scans may be needed.
If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at (503) 968-2911, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!