Imaging plays an important role in diagnosing and monitoring treatment in our dogs and cat patients. Ultrasound uses sound waves to help us “look into the inside”. It uses high frequency sound waves (which are inaudible to humans) to produce images of fluid-filled organs within your pet’s body. When sound waves are aimed into the body, some are absorbed by body tissues and others bounce back. The sound waves that bounce back are captured and measured by the ultrasound machine and are transformed into an image of a body area. It is minimally invasive, does not use radiation and often does not require any sedation. However we do have to shave your pet in the area needed and apply a gel in order to in receive accurate results. So it is not just digital radiographs anymore. Our hospital has always embraced ultrasonography as a big diagnostic tool. In the past we utilized a mobile Board Certified (B.C.) Cardiologist for all Echocardiograms. We utilized an experienced Ultrasonography Technician for abdominal and thyroid scans who then forwards the digital scans and images to either a Board Certified Internal Medicine Specialist, a B. C. Radiologist or a B. C. Cardiologist. We will always offer you all the choices available!