In veterinary medicine, just as in human medicine, there are a number of illnesses and conditions that cannot be detected on the surface of the skin. Diagnostic tools allow us to delve beneath the surface to identify, diagnose and treat these conditions in a timely manner so that your pet can return to his or her normal, active lifestyle as quickly as possible. At Animal Hospital of Unionville we provide a wide range of comprehensive veterinary diagnostic services, including routine blood, urine and stool analysis, as well as more complex testing such as radiology and ultrasound. Additionally, our convenient in-house laboratory allows us to achieve fast and accurate test results so that we can diagnose and treat any illnesses with speed and accuracy.
Radiology
Radiographs, or x-rays, are routinely used as a diagnostic tool in veterinary medicine. They provide valuable information about animal’s bones, gastrointestinal tract (stomach, intestines, and colon), respiratory tract (lungs), heart and genitourinary system (bladder, prostate). Radiology can be used alone or in conjunction with other diagnostic tools to provide a list of possible causes for an animal’s condition, to identify the exact root of a problem and/or to rule out possible problems. Interpretation of radiographs requires great skill on the part of the veterinarian and we’re proud to offer this important tool to our valued patients.
Ultrasonography
Ultrasonography enables us to see inside the organs and to evaluate the internal structure. It is a completely safe procedure since it is non-invasive and only requires the hair to be shaved. Ultrasound waves combined with Doppler and color separation technique can provide valuable information about the blood flow in the heart as well as the function of the heart valves and large blood vessels.
To understand the practical differences between radiography and ultrasonography we like to use the example of “house hunting”. Radiography gives an impression of the outside appearance of the organ (or house in the example), its size, its proximity and its location. Ultrasonography lets you get into the house and view the floor plan, the interior design, the appliances and the general condition of the house. Both techniques complement each other but neither can replace the other.
We take our scans, and send them off to an online consultation service. Results are usually within a few hours. This is the most convenient and fastest way to get US scans. However, we also use the services of a traveling radiologist to come-on site for us.
Endoscopy
These diagnostic procedures allow us to biopsy and visualize your pet’s internal organs without the need for invasive surgery. We frequently perform endoscopy of the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. The most common application in our hospital, however, is the retrieval from the stomach or esophagus a foreign object that was accidentally ingested, such as a chicken bone, sock, or plastic toy.
Cardiology
Cardiology, or the science of the heart, has made great progress over the last decade. Diagnostic tests have improved substantially and there are much more effective treatment choices available. For example, the chances of prevention of certain feline heart conditions can be substantially improved simply by adding Taurine to commercial cat food.
A normal cardiologic work-up may include:
- Physical Examination
- Blood Tests
- Electrocardiography
- Radiography
- Ultrasonography
We also perform regular blood pressure monitoring.
These services are available for all of our patients and can be conveniently performed on our premises. For more complex cases, we consult with other veterinary cardiologists or refer to them as needed.
