Petroglyph Animal Hospital provides ultrasound for pets in Albuquerque using an in-house ultrasound machine. Veterinarians use it to examine internal structures, assess urinary or bladder stones, and guide cystocentesis for sterile urine collection. The hospital also works with a mobile ultrasonographer for full abdominal scans and cardiac scans. Cardiac studies are interpreted by board-certified cardiologists, usually the same day or next day.
A veterinarian can determine whether ultrasound is the right imaging option based on your pet’s symptoms, examination, and previous test results. Contact the hospital to discuss the next step.
What Is Veterinary Ultrasound?
Veterinary ultrasounds in Albuquerque use sound waves to create real-time images of structures inside your pet’s body. It does not use ionizing radiation and can help the veterinarian assess soft tissues, organs, fluid, and movement.
Ultrasound may be used alongside other pet diagnostics when the veterinarian needs more information about internal structures. The results are interpreted together with the physical examination, medical history, and any other testing.
How Ultrasound Differs From Radiographs
Ultrasound can provide information that differs from radiographs because it shows soft tissues and movement in real time. Radiographs remain useful for many conditions, so the veterinarian will select the imaging method that best fits the clinical question.
When Is Ultrasound for Pets Recommended?
A veterinarian may recommend an ultrasound after an examination, bloodwork, urinalysis, or another imaging test indicates that a closer look at internal structures is needed. The reason for the scan and the area examined depend on the pet’s symptoms and clinical findings.
Abdominal and Urinary Imaging
Our animal hospital ultrasound in Albuquerque helps veterinarians assess urinary and bladder stones and guide cystocentesis. Full abdominal scans are available through the mobile ultrasonographer when a broader specialist examination is required.
Cardiac Ultrasound Access
The mobile ultrasonographer also offers cardiac scans. These studies are interpreted by board-certified cardiologists, usually the same day or next day, according to the information currently published by the hospital.
Ultrasound for Dogs in Albuquerque
A dog ultrasound may be recommended when the veterinarian needs to investigate urinary, abdominal, or cardiac concerns. The scan is one part of the diagnostic process and must be interpreted with the dog’s history, examination, and other test results.
Ultrasound for Cats in Albuquerque
A cat ultrasound can provide additional information about internal structures when examination findings or other tests require further investigation. Preparation and handling instructions depend on the type of scan and the individual cat.
Veterinary Radiology and Ultrasound in Albuquerque
Petroglyph Animal Hospital uses in-house ultrasound for selected imaging needs and coordinates mobile abdominal and cardiac ultrasound scans when that service is appropriate. This combination gives the veterinary team access to both routine and specialist-supported imaging.
How We Use Results to Guide Treatment
The veterinarian reviews the ultrasound findings with the rest of the clinical information. The veterinarian may recommend radiographs, laboratory testing, or an animal CT scan when another diagnostic method is better suited to the clinical question.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Ultrasound
Does My Pet Need Special Preparation for an Ultrasound?
Preparation depends on the type of scan and the patient. Follow the instructions provided by the hospital, and ask before the appointment if you are unsure about food, water, or medication.
Will My Pet’s Fur Need to Be Clipped?
The scan may require close contact between the ultrasound probe and the skin. The veterinary team will explain whether clipping is needed for the area being examined.
When Will the Ultrasound Results Be Available?
Timing depends on the type of scan and who interprets it. In most cases, you will have results the same day or by the next day. For heart scans, we work directly with board-certified cardiologists to make sure your pet receives the highest standard of care.
Contact Petroglyph Animal Hospital
Contact the Albuquerque team if your veterinarian has recommended imaging or your pet has symptoms that need assessment. The team can arrange the appropriate next step for ultrasound for pets in Albuquerque and provide appointment instructions.