Pet Ultrasound
A non-invasive way to diagnose sick & injured pets.
An ultrasound examination, also known as ultrasonography, is a non-invasive, gentle way to help your vet quickly and accurately diagnose or evaluate issues with your dog or cat's internal organs. Ultrasounds are a form of imaging technology that transmits sound waves into your pet’s body to produce a 'picture' of a specific body part.
- Anesthesia is not usually needed for most ultrasound examinations. The technique is painless, and most patients will lie comfortably in a soft, inverted cushion while the scan is being performed. Occasionally, if the pet is very frightened or fractious, a sedative or anesthesia may be necessary.
- In most cases, the pet’s fur must be shaved to perform an ultrasound examination. Since ultrasound waves are not transmitted through air, the hand-held probe must make complete contact with the skin.
- The ultrasound will take approximately 30 minutes to perform.
- Your pet should be fasted for 8 hours before their appointment if an abdominal ultrasound is being performed. Water is ok.
- Our compassionate team will assist the ultrasound technician with the procedure.
The ultrasound images are submitted to a veterinary radiologist for interpretation. The final report will be available 24-48 hours following the ultrasound. Our doctor will contact you with the results and a treatment plan as soon as reviewed.
About our mobile Ultrasound Technician:
Amy Mayhew, LVT graduated from MSU in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology. After working in private practice for 2 years, she accepted a job at Oakland Veterinary Referral Services where she was employed for over 15 years. During this time, she worked in internal medicine and developed an interest in ultrasound. She completed her certificate of proficiency in soft tissue ultrasound with WAVE in December 2018 and in November 2020 completed her certificate of proficiency in echocardiography. Amy is dedicated to making advanced diagnostic tools more readily available for clients and patients. She services several practices in Southeast Michigan.
If you have any questions, please ask one of our friendly staff members.