Pet X-ray
Radiology is a valuable diagnostic field that assesses your pet’s health with accuracy.
With X-ray services at Redlands Animal Hospital, our veterinarians can look beneath the surface and identify issues that may not be visible during a physical exam, enabling us to provide effective treatment based on precise information. With our state-of-the-art radiography equipment, we’re committed to providing safe, clear, and reliable results for your pet’s care in Redlands, CA.
A Clear Picture of How X-rays Work
X-rays work by passing a small amount of radiation through the body, which creates images of the bones and soft tissues. Dense structures, such as bones, absorb more radiation and appear white on the X-ray, while softer tissues, like muscles and organs, absorb less and appear in shades of gray. This contrast allows our veterinarians to see and assess various structures within your pet’s body. The advanced digital X-ray equipment used in veterinary radiology provides high-quality images quickly and efficiently so that we can proceed with treatment as soon as possible.
When Do Cats and Dogs Need X-rays?
X-rays are used in veterinary radiology to diagnose conditions and monitor your pet’s health, particularly when they are experiencing symptoms that may indicate an underlying issue. By providing a clear view of your pet’s internal structures, pet X-rays can lead to an accurate treatment plan that addresses the root of the problem. Some common reasons that your vet may suggest pet X-rays include:
Injury or Trauma
To check for fractures, sprains, or internal injuries following an accident or fall.
Orthopedic Concerns
To evaluate bones, joints, and spine for conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, or degenerative joint disease.
Respiratory Issues
To examine the chest and lungs if your pet is showing signs of breathing difficulties, coughing, or other respiratory symptoms.
Digestive Problems
To identify obstructions or foreign objects in the stomach or intestines if your pet has swallowed something unusual.
Dental Health
X-rays can also be used to assess teeth and jaw health, revealing issues that are not visible to the naked eye.
Your Pet’s Radiology Exam: What to Expect
During a pet X-ray appointment, our vet team will guide you and your pet through the process to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible. In most cases, pets remain calm during X-rays and require minimal restraint. In rare cases, if your pet is particularly anxious and unable to remain still for long enough to complete X-rays, we will discuss utilizing light sedation to keep them comfortable and achieve the best results.
Our trained staff will take your pet from the exam room to the X-ray suite. We will position your pet carefully and operate the X-ray machine to capture images of the necessary areas. The entire process is usually quick, and your veterinarian can share the results with you during the same appointment, allowing us to talk about next steps without delay. Should a radiology specialist be needed to review the results, we will have a conversation about having the results sent out for further analysis. This is not commonly needed, as our veterinarians are very experienced in reviewing pet X-rays.
Are X-rays Safe?
Yes, X-rays are generally very safe for pets. The amount of radiation used is low, and our modern veterinary radiology equipment is designed to minimize exposure. X-rays are one of the most common and trusted diagnostic tools in veterinary medicine, and we take every precaution to ensure your pet’s safety during the procedure. If your pet requires multiple X-rays, we monitor their exposure closely to keep it within safe limits.
Our advanced pet X-ray imaging allows us to diagnose and treat health issues quickly and effectively.
If you suspect your pet may need an X-ray or if your veterinarian has recommended imaging, Redlands Animal Hospital is here to provide accurate, compassionate care through our veterinary radiology services. Contact us today to schedule a radiology appointment and learn more about how we can support your pet’s health.
Redlands Animal Hospital performs X-rays for dogs and cats in Redlands, Yucaipa, Highland, Loma Linda, Calimesa, Beaumont, Fontana, Colton, San Bernardino, San Bernardino County, and the surrounding California areas.
