Diagnostic imaging

Radiography: X-rays reveal the true picture

X-rays, also called radiographs, provide some of the most useful and frequently-used diagnostic imaging. X-rays let us see into the bony, gas filled structures within the body, things like the limbs and lungs, and we often use them to take a look at lameness and breathing abnormalities. We position the areas to be imaged over a special photographic plate, and when it’s developed we can get a clear picture of what’s going on inside. A good x-ray means keeping your pet very still, so we usually have to sedate or anaesthetise them first.

Dental Radiography: What’s underneath the gum line

Dental x-ray allows your vet to examine the health of the whole tooth, the root and surrounding bone, which can be difficult and/or impossible to assess in a visible exam alone. They let us identify and diagnose any fractures, resorptive lesions, abscesses and diseases to the inner structures of the tooth, allowing a more thorough and concise plan forward for the dental treatment of your pet.

Ultrasound: Assessing internal problems

Ultrasound is another incredibly useful tool, something we use frequently to assess internal soft organs like the heart, liver, intestines, kidneys and bladder.

Like x-rays, it’s non-invasive and isn’t painful. All we do is clip your pet’s hair in the areas we want to scan, then gently apply pressure using a probe in exactly the same way as doctors do with human babies.

Advanced imaging: CT and MRI scanning

Occasionally our patients need an advanced type of imaging, for example a CT or MRI scan. In this case we’ll refer you to an excellent local specialist hospital, Dick White Referrals.

As an associate practice member at Dick White’s, we’re fortunate to be able to make priority appointments.