If your dog is booked to have an x-ray (radiograph) you may be wondering how the appointment will work and how you can prepare. Below, our Pleasant Hill vets share what you can expect when you bring your dog to us for an x-ray.
What can dog x-rays help vets diagnose?
X-rays are one of the most useful and widely used tools in both human and veterinary medicine. X-rays allow veterinarians to see your pet's bones, tissues, and internal organs, allowing them to diagnose problems such as broken bones, bladder stones, swallowing foreign objects, and more.
X-ray images can help vets to spot some tumors, pregnancy, and enlarged organs which may lead to a diagnosis such as heart disease or cancer.
A detailed view of organs, tissues, and ligaments cannot be obtained using x-ray technology. In these cases, other diagnostic imaging such as MRI and Ultrasound is more beneficial.
An x-ray of a pregnant dog can also help you to prepare for the birth of puppies by allowing you to know how many puppies your dog is expecting, and whether a c-section may be required for any reason.
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How can I prepare for my dog's x-ray appointment?
When an animal is brought in to be examined by a veterinarian, an x-ray is frequently performed. As a result, no preparation is required. Your veterinarian will examine your pet, and if an x-ray is required, they will explain the procedure and what they will be looking for.
Will my dog be sedated when they have their x-ray?
Sedation is sometimes required to get a clear x-ray. If your dog is calm, not in too much pain, and able to lay in a comfortable position while the x-ray is being taken, sedation will not be necessary.
Sedation, on the other hand, will be recommended if your dog is squirmy, agitated, or in pain. Sedation may also be used during your pup's x-ray if the dog's muscles need to be relaxed to obtain a clear image, or if the x-ray is of the skull, teeth, or spine.
Are x-rays safe for dogs?
While x-rays are generally considered safe for dogs, radiation is involved, so x-rays are typically used only infrequently and as a diagnostic tool. In some cases, veterinarians will use x-ray technology to determine a dog's pregnancy; however, other forms of imaging, such as ultrasound, may be used in that case.
If you're concerned about the use of x-ray technology and your dog's health, speak to your vet. Your veterinarian will be able to give you an understanding of the risks versus the benefits in your dog's particular case so that you can decide whether you want your dog to have an x-ray.
How much will my dog's x-rays cost?
The cost of your dog's x-rays will be determined by a variety of factors, including the size of your pet, the area being x-rayed, whether sedation was used, the type of clinic, where your veterinary clinic is located, and more. If you are concerned about the cost of your dog's x-rays, consult with your veterinarian before proceeding.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.