Pet Ultrasound
Learn more about our pet ultrasound services below.
Pet Ultrasound in McKinney, TX
At Stonebridge Family Vet in McKinney, TX, we offer pet ultrasound services to help diagnose and monitor a wide range of internal conditions in dogs and cats. Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging tool that allows our veterinary team to visualize soft tissues and internal organs in real time. This advanced diagnostic approach supports our ability to make informed decisions about your pet’s health, especially when symptoms are unclear or when further insight is needed beyond physical exams and lab work.
Uses of Ultrasound in Pet Care
Pet ultrasound is a noninvasive diagnostic tool used to examine the heart, liver, kidneys, bladder, and digestive tract. It helps identify internal issues related to symptoms like vomiting, weight loss, or abdominal discomfort. Often more detailed than X-rays, ultrasound supports the diagnosis of chronic conditions, confirms pregnancies, and guides procedures such as fluid drainage or tissue sampling.
Some of the most common conditions that can be identified with ultrasound include:
- Pancreatitis
- Kidney and liver changes or damage
- Gallbladder infections
- Prostate inflammation
- Uterine infections
- Cancers affecting organs such as the liver and spleen
- Intestinal cancers including lymphoma
- Pregnancy confirmation and monitoring
Ultrasound can also be used to guide biopsies with precision. This approach helps the veterinarian collect samples safely while avoiding major blood vessels and sensitive internal structures.
Preparing Your Pet for an Ultrasound
If your pet is scheduled for an ultrasound at Stonebridge Family Vet, here’s what you need to know. Most pets do not require anesthesia for this noninvasive and painless procedure. However, if your pet is particularly anxious, a mild sedative may be recommended to help them stay calm and relaxed.
To ensure the best images, the area being examined will need to be shaved so the probe can make direct contact with the skin. Similar to human ultrasounds, a special gel is applied to the area, which helps transmit sound waves. The process typically takes under 30 minutes, depending on the area being evaluated. Your veterinarian may take still images for review, and once the ultrasound is complete, the gel is gently wiped off. If sedation was used, your pet will be monitored until fully alert.
Interpreting Your Pet’s Ultrasound Results
Once the ultrasound is complete, the veterinarian will review the findings and discuss the results with you. In some cases, a preliminary overview can be shared during the appointment, especially if the findings are straightforward. In other situations, they may need to be reviewed alongside other diagnostic tests or past medical records to reach a clear diagnosis. Based on what’s discovered, additional testing or treatment may be recommended. The goal is to offer clear guidance and support as you make decisions about your pet’s care.
At Stonebridge Family Vet, pet ultrasound is an essential tool for early diagnosis, monitoring changes, and making informed medical decisions. If your pet is showing symptoms of illness or needs internal imaging, contact us to schedule an evaluation. We are dedicated to supporting your pet’s health at every stage of their life.