The‌ ‌Importance‌ ‌of‌ ‌Ultrasounds‌ ‌for‌ ‌Pets‌ ‌in‌ ‌Tampa, FL

If your pet has been scheduled for an ultrasound, you will feel a little concerned as a pet owner, but knowing what to expect will help you be prepared. Ultrasounds have become an essential part of keeping our pets healthy; they are the most effective way to address a wide range of health problems and even to practice surgical operations, as early detection can save pets' lives. They are the most common form of scan used to test pets and are used by veterinarians to obtain better diagnoses, disease detection, and a thorough understanding of the health and well-being of animals.

WHAT IS AN ULTRASOUND?

Ultrasounds, also known as ultrasonography, use sound waves to produce a picture that enables internal body structures to be seen, similar to how obstetricians use sonograms during human pregnancies. There are no side effects, and the test is considered non-invasive. Ultrasounds have many benefits in veterinary medicine, including the ability to see internal organs in real-time with greater accuracy, as well as the fact that they are non-invasive and inexpensive.

An ultrasound can detect a variety of issues, including pregnancy and the number of fetuses in the uterus, foreign bodies, cardiac function, enlarged/diseased organs (such as the liver, kidneys, bowel, spleen, bladder, prostate, uterus, and heart), tumors, and other internal injuries or conditions that might otherwise require surgery to view properly.

An ultrasound is typically a painless procedure; however, a light sedative may be needed for certain pets, especially if biopsies are being taken or they become overly nervous or frightened. In most situations, your pet's belly or chest must be shaved, as it is vital to make full contact with the skin. Hair may be moistened with alcohol in some cases, but most studies involve hair removal to better diagnose and treat the patient.

When your furry friend is sick or you notice something abnormal, our team uses the newest technology, such as digital ultrasound, to put your mind at ease. If you have any other questions about ultrasound, please reach out to Wellswood Midtown Animal Hospital in Tampa! We’re happy to talk with you about your dog or cat’s health care needs.