Ultrasound is a noninvasive and painless procedure that utilizes sound waves to examine a pet’s internal organs and other structures within the body. This technique can evaluate areas such as the heart, kidneys, liver, gallbladder, and bladder, while also detecting the presence of fluid, cysts, tumors, or abscesses. Additionally, it is useful for confirming pregnancies or monitoring their progress. We often combine ultrasound with other diagnostic methods, like radiography (x-rays), to achieve a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis, as interpreting ultrasound images demands a high level of expertise from the clinician.

During the process, a team member applies a gel to the skin’s surface to facilitate smooth movement of the transducer—a small handheld device—across the area being examined, which helps produce clearer and more precise images. The transducer sends out ultrasonic sound waves directed toward the internal structures of interest. These waves bounce back as echoes, varying in intensity based on the tissue density and the amount of fluid present, ultimately creating detailed visuals that appear on a monitor and can be recorded for further review.

One of the key advantages of ultrasound is that it involves no radiation exposure, has no documented side effects, and generally does not require sedation or anesthesia for the pet. However, the fur in the targeted area is typically shaved to ensure optimal contact and image quality.