If your pet needs an ultrasound examination, please speak to you Vet and we will arrange it. We do not accept referrals from pet owners, only from Veterinary Professionals.
As a pet owner, you will have some questions about the procedure. Please use this page as a brief guide, and speak to your Vet for further information.
Some practical considerations for pet owners:
Some pets have a very sensitive skin, and just by clipping the hair close to the skin, can make what we call a “clipper rash”. Most of the time this presents as a redness in the skin that solves within 24 hours. If you see anything worrying or if it does not subside after 24 hours, please see your Vet.
Coupling gel will be applied to your pet’s skin, and it will be absorbed. You might see or feel the gel – don’t worry, it is water based, hypoallergenic and does not stain your clothes or any fabric. They can even lick it (and often do), without causing a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ultrasound examination, and how is it done?
An ultrasound examination is an imaging method that uses ultrasounds to form an image of the structures we are targeting. It is done by using an ultrasound probe that will be in contact with the skin and will allow us to explore the structures in a real-time manner.
Is it dangerous? Does it have any risk or contraindications?
Not at all. The ultrasounds used in this examination are very safe. The only effect they produce in the body is an increase in the temperature of the organs targeted due to the interactions of the ultrasound waves – but this is not dangerous and your pet will not feel it.
When do I have the results back?
An ultrasound examination allows for immediate results. Being an imaging method, the results will be based on image of the organs, and whether they are normal or abnormal and how that has changed its appearance. An ultrasound is not a definitive diagnosis – it often needs further diagnostic tests to confirm any suspicion.
Why does my pet need to be clipped?
An ultrasound examination is done by applying get to the skin, and using a probe to get direct contact with the skin via the gel – very much like a pregnancy scan.
As animals have their body covered in hair (apart from a few dog and cat breeds), it traps air and ultrasound waves do not go through air, they bounce back without image. This is why is vital that your pet is clipped for an ultrasound examination.
If your pet is having an abdominal ultrasound performed, the clipping will include full abdomen and wide areas on the side, as the kidneys are located very lateral and high in the abdomen.
Why does my pet need to be sedated?
Although completely pain-free, an ultrasound examination means laying on the side, quiet, and gentle pressure, and movement around the skin and body.
Some pets don’t mind all this fuss, but some of them are not very fond of all this in a different environment and do not relax at all. With tense abdomen, an ultrasound examination is not possible, and it will not be detailed or thorough. Other pets are scared, aggressive or have a very sore abdomen and will not allow any gentle touch to that very sensitive area.
In all these cases, sedation is very helpful and important. Your Vet will determine the best and safest protocol to use in your pet, and it will always include a pain killer mixed with a sedative, to allow your pet to relax and have a pleasant experience. Please discuss this option with your Vet prior to the ultrasound examination.
Why does my pet need to be fasted?
With the exception of some medical reasons, all pets should be fasted for abdominal ultrasound examination. The reason for this is that food inside the stomach and intestines stops the ultrasound waves and does not allow for a diagnostic image to be obtained.
You pet should be fasted 8-12 hours but can drink water.
The Ultrasound Vet 