- COMPASSIONATE PET CARE
Dog Ultrasound Clearer Answers for Better Care
Ultrasound gives our veterinary team a real-time look at your dog’s internal organs and abdominal structures. At Paw Haven Animal Hospital, dog ultrasound helps us investigate abnormal test results, unexplained symptoms, and ongoing health concerns with greater clarity and confidence.
Ultrasound Backed by Experience
Dr. Cynthia Orange completed advanced abdominal ultrasound training through the Academy of Veterinary Imaging by Sound. Her training included in-person sessions, hands-on practice, and a certificate in abdominal ultrasound imaging. That experience helps our team provide careful, informed ultrasound evaluation for pets who need a closer look.
Why Ultrasound Matters
Ultrasound gives veterinarians a different diagnostic view than X-rays. Instead of a single still image, ultrasound allows the doctor to see organ movement, blood flow, abdominal structures, and internal changes in real time.
Real-Time Imaging
See organs and movement as they happen.
Better Detail
Assess structures that may not be clear on X-rays.
Non-Invasive Insight
Helps guide next steps without surgery.
Targeted Diagnosis
Supports faster, more informed treatment decisions.
When Dogs May Need an Ultrasound
Ultrasound is often recommended when bloodwork shows abnormal liver or kidney values, when chronic vomiting remains unexplained, or when a foreign body is suspected and X-rays are inconclusive. It can also help investigate a wide range of abdominal concerns.
- Abnormal bloodwork
- Chronic vomiting
- Suspected foreign body
- Ongoing abdominal concerns
- Follow-up diagnostics after an exam or X-rays
What an Ultrasound Can Help Diagnose
Ultrasound can help investigate several internal health concerns and guide the next steps in your dog’s care.
- Gastrointestinal disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Blockages
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Abdominal masses or tumors
What to Expect
Fasting & Check-In
Most pets are fasted so the stomach and intestines can be evaluated more clearly.
Exam & Light Sedation
Your dog is examined first, then lightly sedated when appropriate to reduce fear and stress.
Ultrasound Procedure
Your dog is placed comfortably in a padded trough, the belly is shaved, and the scan usually takes about 20–30 minutes.
Recovery & Results
Sedation is reversed, your pet wakes up comfortably, and results are discussed with you — often the same day.
Frequently asked
Is dog ultrasound painful?
No. Dog ultrasound is non-invasive and painless. Your dog may be lightly sedated to reduce fear and stress, but the scan itself does not damage tissue or cause pain.
Why would my dog need an ultrasound instead of an X-ray?
X-rays provide a still image, while ultrasound lets the veterinarian see organs, movement, blood flow, and abdominal structures in real time. This can help when X-rays are unclear or when bloodwork shows abnormal liver or kidney values.
Does my dog need to fast before an ultrasound?
Yes, most dogs are fasted before an abdominal ultrasound so the stomach and intestines can be evaluated more clearly. Paw Haven will give you specific instructions before the appointment.
What can a dog ultrasound help detect?
Dog ultrasound can help investigate gastrointestinal disease, inflammatory bowel disease, blockages, liver disease, kidney disease, abdominal masses, tumors, and chronic vomiting concerns.
How long does a dog ultrasound appointment take?
The ultrasound scan usually takes about 20–30 minutes. After the scan, sedation is reversed when used, and results are often discussed with you the same day.
