If your dog is booked for an x-ray (radiograph) you may be wondering how the appointment will work and how you can prepare. Below, our Corpus Christi 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 frequently used tools in both human and veterinary medicine. X-rays can provide veterinarians with a view of your pet's bones, tissues, and internal organs, allowing them to diagnose issues 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 see the vet for a problem, an X-ray is frequently taken. As a result, there is no need for preparation. Your veterinarian will examine your pet, and if an x-ray is necessary, they will explain the procedure and what they will be looking for.
How do dogs get X-Rays?
Sedation is sometimes required in order 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.
On the other hand, sedation will be suggested if your dog is jittery, apprehensive, or in pain. If the dog's muscles need to be relaxed in order to get a clear image, or if the X-ray is of the skull, teeth, or spine, sedation may also be used during your pup's X-ray.
Are X-rays safe for dogs?
Although X-ray use is typically thought to be safe for dogs, radiation is involved, so X-rays are typically used infrequently and primarily as a diagnostic tool. Although other imaging techniques like ultrasound may be used in that situation, veterinarians occasionally use X-ray technology to learn more about a dog's pregnancy.
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 long do dog X-Rays take?
X-Rays of dogs usually take about 10 minutes. However, it may take longer or shorter depending on your dog's size and if they need to be sedated or not.
How much will my dog's X-rays cost?
The price of your dog's X-rays will depend on 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. A vet's estimate is something you should get before proceeding if you are worried about the price of your dog's X-rays.
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.