Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive tool that provides real-time images of your pet’s internal organs. At Village Vets, we use this technology to quickly diagnose health issues, guide treatment plans, and ensure the best possible care for your companion.

About

At Village Vets, we use ultrasound technology to gain a detailed, real-time view of your pet’s internal organs—without the need for invasive procedures. Ultrasounds employ sound waves to create images of soft tissues such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, intestines, heart, and more. This gentle and pain-free diagnostic method helps us identify the root causes of your pet’s symptoms and develop effective treatment plans.

Before the ultrasound, we may need to shave a small area of fur to ensure the probe makes good contact with your pet’s skin. In some cases, mild sedation might be recommended to keep your pet calm and comfortable, ensuring the clearest possible images. Beyond simply imaging, ultrasounds can also guide minimally invasive procedures like needle biopsies, allowing us to collect tissue samples for further analysis with minimal discomfort.

Our veterinary team may suggest an ultrasound if your pet shows signs such as abdominal pain, swelling, persistent vomiting, diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, changes in appetite, or urinary issues. It can also be invaluable for monitoring pregnancy and assessing heart health (echocardiography), providing a non-surgical look into the body’s inner workings.

One of the major advantages of ultrasound is that it offers a comprehensive view of internal organs without the risks associated with exploratory surgery. When combined with other diagnostic tools—like blood tests, X-rays, or lab analyses—ultrasound gives us a fuller picture of your pet’s condition, leading to a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Whether you’re investigating an ongoing health concern or seeking a second opinion, our dedicated team is here to answer your questions, ensure your pet’s comfort, and deliver the highest standard of care. If you’re worried about your companion’s health, contact us today to discuss whether an ultrasound could help guide the next steps.

Why Choose Us?

At Village Vets, we’re passionate about providing exceptional care for your beloved pets. Our experienced team of compassionate veterinarians and nurses is dedicated to ensuring your pet’s health and happiness at every stage of life.

With state-of-the-art facilities, tailored treatment plans, and a genuine love for animals, we go above and beyond to deliver the best possible care.

Whether it’s a routine check-up or a complex procedure, you can trust Village Vets to treat your pets like family.

Our Ashbourne branch joined the Village Vets family in 2008 and we moved to our shiny new site in 2024, which is well equipped with modern facilities including an in-house laboratory, diagnostic equipment such as x-rays, dental x-rays and ultrasonography, four consult rooms and two surgical theatres.

What to Expect

When your pet comes in for an ultrasound at Village Vets, the experience is designed to be as smooth and stress-free as possible. After a brief physical exam, our veterinary team may shave a small patch of fur and apply a conductive gel to help the ultrasound probe capture clear images.

We’ll talk you through the process so you know what’s happening every step of the way. In many cases, pets remain relaxed during the procedure, but if your companion is particularly anxious, we may suggest mild sedation for their comfort. As the ultrasound images appear in real time, our veterinarian can identify areas of concern, pinpoint abnormalities, or reassure you if everything looks normal.

If the ultrasound reveals a need for further investigation, we may recommend additional tests or minimally invasive procedures, such as ultrasound-guided sample collection. Once the examination is complete, our team will discuss the findings with you and outline any next steps, ensuring you feel fully informed and confident in the care your pet receives.

Frequently Asked Questions

We love questions, please do not hesitate to get in contact.

  • Why might my pet need an ultrasound?

    It helps diagnose conditions affecting internal organs or monitor pregnancies.

  • Is the procedure painful?

    No, it’s non-invasive and painless for your pet.

  • Do I need to prepare my pet?

    Some scans may require fasting; we’ll advise you in advance.

  • How long does an ultrasound take?

    Most scans are completed within 20-30 minutes.

  • Are results immediate?

    Yes, our team will review and explain the findings during your visit.

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