DNA Vetcare > Our Services > Ultrasounds
Pet Ultrasounds
Accurate diagnosis is vital to your pet’s health, and advanced ultrasound technology allows us to examine internal organs and soft tissues quickly, safely, and without any discomfort.
At DNA Vetcare, we offer comprehensive ultrasound assessments for dogs and cats, whether we’re evaluating heart function, identifying masses, monitoring pregnancies, or investigating gastrointestinal issues.
Our experienced team uses modern, high-quality ultrasound equipment to ensure the procedure is as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’re here to provide clear answers and the highest standard of care when your pet needs it most.
What are Pet Ultrasounds?
Pet ultrasounds, or ultrasonography, are a safe, non-invasive way for our team at DNA Vetcare to see inside your pet’s body, without the need for surgery or radiation.
From assessing heart function and confirming pregnancy to investigating abdominal discomfort or identifying tumours, ultrasound imaging provides fast, reliable insights into your pet’s health. Our modern ultrasound technology delivers clear, high-quality images within minutes, allowing us to diagnose conditions and discuss the next steps with you during the same visit.
Examples of When Your Pet Might Need an Ultrasound
Your pet may need an ultrasound at DNA Vetcare for a variety of reasons. We commonly use ultrasound for pets to:
Investigate unexplained vomiting, diarrhoea, or abdominal pain by examining the liver, kidneys, spleen, and intestines
Follow up on abnormal blood test results to identify underlying causes
Detect bladder stones, tumors, or masses
Evaluate heart conditions and cardiac function
Confirm pregnancies and monitor developing puppies or kittens
Assess internal injuries or bleeding following trauma
Whether you need an ultrasound scan for dogs or an ultrasound for cats, the process is non-invasive and stress-free, an excellent diagnostic option when we need a closer look at what’s happening inside your pet’s body.
How do Pet Ultrasounds Work?
Pet ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of your pet’s internal organs. At our award-winning clinics, we apply a gentle, water-based gel to the area we’re examining and glide a small probe over the skin to capture these images.
The sound waves bounce off internal structures and are instantly converted into clear, detailed visuals on the screen. This allows us to assess organ health, detect abnormalities, and even monitor blood flow with precision.
Because the results appear immediately, we can talk you through our findings straight away and outline the next steps to ensure your pet receives the best possible care.
Why Choose DNA Vetcare for Ultrasounds?
- Conveniently located across the UK, our group of award-winning surgeries are easily accessible for local pet owners
- Experienced veterinary team using advanced ultrasound technology for accurate diagnostics
- Fast, stress-free imaging process with results available during your visit
- Compassionate care that prioritises your pet’s comfort throughout the procedure
- Clear explanations of findings and treatment options tailored to your pet’s needs
Advanced ultrasound technology means faster diagnosis and quicker treatment, giving your pet the best chance of recovery.
Pet Ultrasound FAQs
How long does a pet ultrasound take?
Most ultrasound scans at DNA Vetcare take between 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the area being examined and your pet’s cooperation. We work at your pet’s pace to keep them comfortable throughout the procedure.
Does my pet need to be sedated for an ultrasound?
In most cases, no sedation is required. The majority of dogs and cats at our clinics tolerate ultrasounds well with gentle restraint. However, if your pet is very anxious or in pain, we may recommend mild sedation to ensure accurate results and their comfort.
Will you need to shave my pet's fur?
Yes, we usually need to clip a small area of fur where the ultrasound probe will be placed. This ensures the best possible contact and image quality. The fur will grow back naturally over time.
Is an ultrasound safe for my pet?
Absolutely. Ultrasound uses harmless sound waves rather than radiation, making it completely safe for pets of all ages, including pregnant animals and young puppies or kittens.
What's the difference between an ultrasound and an X-ray?
X-rays are best for viewing bones and detecting issues like fractures, while ultrasounds excel at examining soft tissues and organs like the heart, liver, kidneys, and bladder. At DNA Vetcare, we often use both imaging techniques to get a complete picture of your pet’s health.
Will I get the results immediately?
Yes, we can view images in real-time during the scan, and we will discuss our findings with you straight away. This allows us to explain what we’ve seen and recommend the best course of treatment for your pet.
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