Are you taking your dog for an X-ray (radiograph)? If yes, you might be curious about what to expect during the appointment and how to prepare. In today's post, our vets in San Mateo will explain the usual process for taking X-rays of dogs.
What can dog X-rays help vets diagnose?
X-rays are a commonly used diagnostic tool in both human and veterinary healthcare. They allow vets to get a clear view of your pet's bones, tissues, and internal organs, which can help diagnose different issues such as broken bones, bladder stones, and swallowed foreign objects. X-rays are also helpful in detecting tumors, pregnancy, and enlarged organs resulting from heart disease or cancer.
However, X-ray technology has its limitations. It cannot provide a detailed view of organs, tissues, and ligaments. Other diagnostic imaging techniques like MRI and ultrasound are more beneficial in such cases.
An X-ray is a helpful tool for determining the number of puppies your pregnant dog is expecting, and whether a C-section may be necessary for any reason.
How can I prepare for my dog's X-ray appointment?
Often, an X-ray is done when the animal is brought in to have an issue looked at by the vet. For that reason, no preparation is required. Your veterinarian will examine your dog. Then, if an X-ray is required, they will take time to explain the procedure and what they are looking for.
Will my dog need to be sedated when they have their X-ray?
In some cases, a clear X-ray image of a dog can only be obtained with the help of sedation. Sedation may be unnecessary if the dog is calm, not in too much pain, and can stay comfortable while the X-ray is taken.
However, sedation is generally recommended if the dog is restless, anxious, or in pain. Sedation may also be required when the dog's muscles must be relaxed to obtain a clear image or when 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, they involve radiation. However, it's worth noting that modern digital X-ray machines emit far less radiation than older models. Nevertheless, X-rays are typically used only for diagnostic purposes and not regularly. In some cases, vets may use X-rays to gather information about a dog's pregnancy, but other imaging methods, such as ultrasound, may be more appropriate.
If you're worried about using X-ray technology and its impact on your dog's health, don't hesitate to talk to your vet. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with an understanding of the risks and benefits of your dog's specific case so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed with an X-ray.
How much do dog X-rays cost?
The cost of your dog's X-rays can vary based on several factors, such as the size of your pet, the specific area being X-rayed, whether sedation was administered, the type of clinic, and the location of your veterinary clinic. If you are worried about the cost of your dog's X-rays, you can ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes. The services listed in this post may not be available at this hospital.