Diagnostic imaging through X-ray allows us to gather crucial information about your pet’s health without the need for invasive surgery and sometimes even without the need for sedation.
Why are X-rays done on dogs, cats and other pets?
Radiographs, more commonly known as X-rays, are frequently taken to assess bones and other parts of the body including the thorax and abdomen. We have a digital x-ray machine, and can take high quality, diagnostic images of your pet. This technology allows our veterinarians to diagnose a number of conditions, including fractures, foreign bodies and tumours. Because the images are digital, we can easily forward them to specialists or other veterinarians for consultation.
Will my pet need to be sedated during an X-ray?
Sedation is not always required to obtain X-rays, but there are some instances in which it is necessary. For example, some pets are unable to remain still long enough for the radiograph to be taken, whether it’s as a result of discomfort or apprehension. If sedation is necessary, we use safe, reversible sedatives that are often combined with pain medication to make your pet more comfortable during the procedure.
What happens when a dog, cat or other pet gets an X-ray?
A trained staff member will be monitoring your pet’s vital signs while they are sedated until they are fully awake. Once your pet is sedated and/or ready to be X-rayed, they are positioned on the table. The equipment is placed over the target area, and the radiograph is taken. Repositioning your pet may be necessary to obtain various views of the target area. The images are produced within seconds and appear on a computer monitor.
Are X-rays risky for pets?
The risks of radiation exposure to your pet is minimal, but as staff remain in the radiology suite with the patient, and perform this procedure multiples times in their work week, they are required to wear protective equipment including lead gowns, gloves and thyroid protectors, as well as wearing dosage monitors, with the data collected by Health Canada. All staff are trained to minimize radiation exposure to both your pet and themselves.
