There will always be a need for vets. That idea, plus my huge love of animals, has led me down the path of becoming a veterinarian. I have not graduated from my course yet, but the reason behind this blog is to share my learning journey. I intend to write blog posts on subjects like the veterinarian education path, my thoughts on whether to be a general or specialist vet and how I wish to use alternative treatments like acupuncture in my practice. If you too have a love of animals and want to make this your job, then my blog will be interesting to you.
Pet Ultrasound: Three Critical Tips for Preparing for the Examination
If your pet is experiencing some health problems, the veterinarian might recommend an ultrasound. The use of ultrasound is ideal for examining the bodies of most animals because it is non-invasive. The discomfort during the diagnostic procedure is minimal, and there is no recovery period. The ultrasound will provide images of the internal organs, allowing the veterinarian to establish a treatment plan. However, it is normal for a pet owner to be worried about their beloved animal companion going through the process. Therefore, consider using the below guidelines to understand the pet ultrasound procedure and prepare for it.
Know the Pet Condition
You should learn the need for an ultrasound for your pet by inquiring about the current health condition from your veterinarian. This information will be critical in planning for the future and making arrangements for further diagnostics and treatment. In general, a pet ultrasound is recommended if there are anomalies in basic tests. For instance, the vet will use ultrasound to examine organs like the spleen, kidneys and liver if the blood work or urine tests are abnormal. You can also inquire about the potential risk of diseases like cancer and cysts.
Inquire about Sedation
The need for sedation for your pet during an ultrasound will depend on their condition and behaviour. You can inquire about this issue for your animal and understand the option. Where possible, a pet should not be sedated because the drugs will cause malaise for a period. There are no long-term dangers of tranquilising chemicals, but the pet will need observation after the procedure. Fortunately, most pets can remain calm during the non-invasive process. Keep in mind that the veterinarian might discover problems, such as a tumour, after the ultrasound. The imaging does not provide conclusive results, so a biopsy might be necessary to collect a sample for further testing. In this case, your pet will be put under deep sedation or a little anaesthetic. You will need to plan for proper care after the procedure.
Follow the Instructions
Finally, inquire about the instructions to follow before the pet ultrasound. The instructions will depend on the specific ultrasound and the goal of the examination. For example, if the procedure is directed towards the abdomen, the veterinarian might instruct you to avoid feeding your pet for several hours before the procedure. Also, the examination of a urinary bladder could involve preventing the animal from urinating. Keep the instructions in mind and follow them for the best ultrasound imaging.
For more information about ultrasounds for pets, contact a local vet.