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When pets are sick or injured, it is not always possible to understand what is happening inside their bodies through a physical exam alone. Diagnostic imaging gives us a clearer picture of your pet's health so we can make accurate diagnoses and provide the best treatment plan. At Anchor Animal Hospital, we use advanced technology to keep your pet safe, comfortable, and well cared for.
Diagnostic imaging is a non-invasive way to evaluate internal structures that cannot be seen from the outside. It helps us detect injuries, illnesses, and abnormalities that may not be apparent during a physical exam. Early detection of these issues allows us to begin treatment sooner and improve your pet's long-term health and quality of life.
Digital X-rays are one of the most common and valuable diagnostic tools. They allow us to evaluate bones, joints, the chest, and abdominal organs quickly and safely. We also perform digital dental radiography to assess teeth and jaws, helping us detect hidden dental disease below the gum line that may not be visible during an oral exam.
Digital technology provides images within seconds, and they can be enhanced for better detail. When needed, we can send X-rays electronically to a board-certified veterinary radiologist for additional review and interpretation, ensuring your pet benefits from advanced expertise.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce real-time images of internal organs. It is especially helpful for assessing the heart, liver, kidneys, bladder, and gastrointestinal system. Because it shows organs in motion, ultrasound allows us to evaluate blood flow, function, and movement in a way X-rays cannot.
Abdominal ultrasounds help us diagnose conditions such as bladder stones, kidney disease, gastrointestinal obstructions, pancreatitis, liver or spleen disease, internal bleeding, tumors, and pregnancy (usually confirmed in dogs around four weeks after breeding). If additional input is needed, images can be shared with a boarded radiologist to provide a more in-depth evaluation.
Echocardiograms are ultrasound exams of the heart. They let us evaluate the heart's structure and blood flow, helping distinguish between mild conditions, such as a small leaking valve, and more serious heart diseases. We can also send echocardiograms to a board-certified veterinary cardiologist for specialized review.
While digital radiology and ultrasound are our primary tools, advanced imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRI are sometimes recommended for complex cases. These procedures are typically performed at referral hospitals. When needed, we collaborate closely with specialists to ensure your pet receives the most comprehensive care.
Diagnostic imaging is generally safe for pets. Ultrasound does not involve radiation, and digital X-rays use far lower levels of radiation than traditional machines.
Some imaging procedures require pets to remain very still to obtain high-quality images. In these cases, sedation may be recommended to minimize stress, prevent movement, and keep your pet comfortable. For example, dental radiographs or certain positioning for X-rays often require sedation to ensure clear images. Abdominal ultrasounds are usually tolerated well without sedation, though more anxious pets may still benefit from light sedation.
We carefully evaluate each patient to determine if sedation is appropriate and always use the safest protocol possible for your pet's age and health. Our team monitors pets closely during and after sedation to ensure their well-being.
Our dedicated ultrasound room is designed to keep exams quiet and stress-free. Many pets relax so much on our soft bedding that they fall asleep during the procedure.
At Anchor Animal Hospital, we believe in collaboration. When additional expertise is needed, we can send both X-rays and ultrasound images to board-certified veterinary radiologists or cardiologists for advanced interpretation. This partnership ensures your pet benefits from the highest level of diagnostic accuracy and care.
Diagnostic imaging helps us look beyond the surface and detect problems early, often before symptoms become severe. By combining advanced technology with compassionate care, we provide the best tools for keeping your pet healthy and by your side for years to come.
Not always. Many pets tolerate ultrasounds without sedation, especially in our quiet, pet-friendly ultrasound room. However, some procedures such as dental radiographs or certain X-ray positions require pets to remain perfectly still. In these cases, we may recommend sedation to keep your pet calm and ensure clear images.
Yes. Ultrasound does not use radiation at all, and modern digital X-ray equipment uses much lower doses than older machines. We only recommend imaging when it is necessary, and we follow strict safety protocols to minimize exposure.
Diagnostic imaging can help us identify a wide range of conditions, including broken bones, tumors, bladder stones, gastrointestinal obstructions, heart disease, dental disease, internal bleeding, and more. It is also a valuable tool for monitoring chronic conditions and confirming pregnancy.
Yes. When needed, we can send both X-rays and ultrasound images electronically to board-certified veterinary radiologists and cardiologists. This collaboration ensures the most accurate interpretation and the best treatment plan for your pet.
Most imaging results are available the same day. If images are sent to a specialist for review, results may take a little longer, but our team will always keep you updated and explain next steps.