X-rays are an essential diagnostic tool for detecting dogs' bone and internal organ conditions. In this blog post, our New York veterinarians explain the procedure for taking X-rays for dogs and what you should expect.
X-Rays for Your Dog
X-rays are a common and useful diagnostic tool in both human and veterinary healthcare. They allow us to examine your dog's internal systems and identify issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. X-rays can detect various conditions including pregnancy, broken bones, tumors, enlarged organs, foreign objects, and more. However, if a detailed view of tissues, ligaments, and organs is required, other diagnostic imaging techniques, such as MRI and ultrasound, may be more appropriate.
Preparing for Your Dog's X-Ray Appointment
An X-ray is commonly taken by a veterinarian when an animal is brought in for an examination or a diagnostic test. As such, no specific preparation is needed. Your vet will first examine your pet; if an X-ray is necessary, they will explain the procedure and what they are looking for.
Sedation
Sedation may sometimes be necessary to take a clear X-ray of your dog. If your dog is calm and, not experiencing too much pain, and can lie down comfortably while the X-ray is being taken, then sedation may not be required.
However, if your dog is in pain, anxious, or unable to stay still, your veterinarian may recommend sedation. Additionally, if your veterinarian needs your dog's muscles to be relaxed in order to obtain a clear image, sedation may also be suggested.
Safety of X-Rays for Dogs
Radiography is a completely safe, painless and non-invasive procedure that employs very low doses of radiation. In fact, the radiation exposure required for X-rays is so low that it is even safe to take X-rays of pregnant dogs.
However, if you have any concerns about the use of X-ray technology or the potential need for sedation, it's always best to speak with your veterinarian.
They can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and risks associated with the procedure in your dog's particular case, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed with it.
Cost of a Dog X-Ray
Determining the cost of your dog's X-rays involves several factors, such as the area being X-rayed, your dog's size, whether sedation was used, your location, the veterinarian you are seeing, and more. Your vet can provide you with an estimate of the X-ray cost before proceeding with the procedure.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.