X-ray & Radiology Services: Seeing Beyond the Surface
When your pet is unwell, they cannot tell us where it hurts. In many cases, a physical exam alone isn't enough to reach a definitive diagnosis. At Animal Medical Centre, our Digital X-ray and Radiology Services serve as a vital window into your pet’s internal health, allowing our veterinarians to "see" what is happening beneath the skin without the need for invasive exploratory surgery. By utilizing state-of-the-art digital radiography, we can capture high-resolution images of your pet’s skeletal system and internal organs in a matter of seconds.
Our radiology suite is equipped to handle a wide range of diagnostic needs. For pets involved in accidents, digital X-rays are the gold standard for identifying bone fractures, joint dislocations, and spinal abnormalities. Beyond orthopedics, radiographs are essential for evaluating the chest and abdomen. We use them to detect heart enlargement, pneumonia, and liquid in the lungs, as well as to identify ingested foreign objects like stones or toys that may be causing life-threatening blockages in the digestive tract. The "digital" aspect of our technology offers significant advantages over traditional film X-rays. Because the images are processed electronically, we can zoom in, adjust contrast, and enhance details to catch early signs of disease that might otherwise be missed. This speed is especially critical in emergency situations, where every minute counts toward stabilizing a patient. Furthermore, digital images are easily stored and can be instantly shared with specialists if a second opinion is required, ensuring your pet receives the most collaborative and accurate care possible.
We understand that the loud noises and positioning required for X-rays can be stressful for a sick or injured pet. Our team is trained in low-stress handling techniques, using gentle positioning and lead-lined safety equipment to protect both our patients and our staff from unnecessary radiation exposure. While most pets can remain still for the few seconds needed to capture an image, we offer safe, short-acting sedation for those in pain or high states of agitation, ensuring the most accurate "first-time" results without repeated takes. Our commitment to radiology extends to preventive care as well. We often recommend radiographs for senior pets to monitor the progression of arthritis or to screen for early-stage tumors in the chest or abdomen. By catching these issues early through routine imaging, we can implement management plans that significantly improve your pet's quality of life. At Animal Medical Centre, we combine cutting-edge technology with clinical expertise to provide the clear answers you need to help your pet heal.