While diagnostic imaging is commonly used in the care and treatment of pets, this may be your pup's first time. Below, our Cumming vets offer some information about what to expect during your dog's X-ray appointment and how these images can be used in veterinary care.
What can my dog's X-ray show us?
X-rays are a vital part of comprehensive veterinary care, allowing us to gain a view of the internal structures of pets. X-rays of your pet's bones, tissues, and internal organs allow the vet to diagnose issues such as broken bones, bladder stones, swallowed foreign objects, and more.
Radiographs or X-ray images can help vets to spot some tumors, pregnancy, and enlarged organs which may lead to a diagnosis such as heart disease or cancer.
If your vet is in need of a detailed view of the organs, tissues, and ligaments of your dog, they will likely use MRI or ultrasound.
An X-ray of a pregnant dog can also help you to prepare for the birth of puppies by allowing you to know how many puppies your dog is expecting, and whether a c-section may be required for any reason.
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Will I need to prepare my dog for an X-ray?
Preparation for X-rays is not needed. This is because the decision to take an X-ray is usually made when the vet is already evaluating the animal. Your vet will examine your pet, then if an X-ray is required, they will take some time to explain the procedure and what they will be looking for.
Will sedation be used for my dog's X-ray?
If your dog is in need of an X-ray, your vet may likely opt to sedate your dog in order to keep them still. If your dog is calm, not in too much pain, and able to lay in a comfortable position while the X-ray is being taken, sedation will not be necessary.
On the other hand, if your dog is squirmy, edgy, or in pain sedation will be recommended. Other reasons why sedation may be used during your pup's X-ray include if the dog's muscles need to be relaxed in order to get a clear image, or when the X-ray is of the skull, teeth or spine.
Are veterinary diagnostics like X-rays and ultrasounds safe for dogs?
While the use of X-rays is generally considered safe for dogs, radiation is involved and so X-rays are typically used only occasionally and generally as a diagnostic tool. In some cases vets will use X-ray technology to glean information about a dog's pregnancy however other forms of imaging such as ultrasound could be used in that case.
If you're concerned about the use of X-ray technology and your dog's health, speak to your vet. Your veterinarian will be able to give you an understanding of the risks versus the benefits in your dog's particular case so that you can decide whether you want your dog to have an X-ray.
What will it cost to bring my dog for x-rays in Cumming?
There are a range of factors that will dictate the cost of your dog's X-rays including the size of your pet, the area being X-rayed, whether sedation was used, the type of clinic, where your veterinary clinic is located, and more. If you are concerned about the cost of your pup's X-rays, ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.