When your pet isn’t feeling well, waiting for answers is hard. That’s why we’re glad to share that Family Pet Clinic now offers ultrasound in-house at our Southampton, Feasterville, and Horsham hospitals. That means that in many cases, your pet’s own veterinary team can take a closer look right here, without a referral to a separate facility.
What Is a Veterinary Ultrasound?
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of what’s happening inside your pet’s body. It shows the soft tissues that X-rays can’t show well, like the liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, stomach, and intestines. It also uses no radiation.
Ultrasound and X-rays work well together. X-rays are great for looking at bones and the overall size and position of organs, while ultrasound shows the detail inside them. Your veterinarian will recommend the right tool, or both, for your pet. This combination helps your veterinarian gain a better understanding of your pet’s condition and determine whether further testing or treatment is needed. With detailed imaging and a clearer picture of what is happening inside your pet’s body, your veterinary team can make more informed decisions and provide care tailored to your pet’s needs.
When Might Your Vet Recommend an Ultrasound?
Every pet is different, but a veterinarian may suggest an ultrasound when a pet has:
- Vomiting or diarrhea that doesn’t go away
- Weight loss or a drop in appetite
- A swollen or painful belly
- Changes in drinking or urination
- Bloodwork or X-rays that show something worth a closer look
- A lump or mass found during an exam
- A need to check on a pregnancy
An ultrasound allows your veterinarian to examine your pet’s internal organs in greater detail and identify changes that may not be visible on an X-ray alone. It provides valuable information that can support a more accurate assessment and help guide the next steps in your pet’s care. By offering a closer look at your pet’s health, ultrasound can help your veterinary team make informed decisions and recommend appropriate treatment with greater confidence.
Why Having Ultrasound In-House Matters
- Familiar faces. Your pet stays with the team that already knows them and their history.
- Fewer extra trips. When a scan is needed, you may not have to schedule a separate visit somewhere else.
- Faster decisions. Results can be reviewed alongside your pet’s exam, bloodwork, and X-rays, so the plan comes together in one place.
- Care close to home. Southampton, Feasterville, and Horsham families can get this service at the hospital they already trust.
What to Expect at Your Pet’s Appointment
Most ultrasounds are painless, and many pets stay calm through them. Here’s what typically happens:
- Prep. Your team may ask you to fast your pet for several hours beforehand. Please follow the instructions you’re given when you book.
- Gentle clipping. We’ll shave a small patch of fur, usually on the belly, so the images are clear. A little warm gel is applied to the area.
- The scan. A handheld probe glides over the area while your veterinarian views the images. Some pets need mild sedation to stay still, and we’ll talk with you about that first.
- Next steps. We’ll go over what we saw and what it means for your pet’s care.
Schedule Your Pet’s Visit
If your pet has been showing signs that worry you, or your veterinarian has mentioned an ultrasound, we’re here to help. Family Pet Clinic has three convenient locations to serve pet owners in the area.
- Family Pet Clinic, Southampton: Visit the clinic at 534 2nd Street Pike, Southampton, PA 18966, or call (215) 357-2885 for assistance.
- Family Pet Clinic, Feasterville: Visit the clinic at 1441 Bridgetown Pike, Feasterville, PA 19053, or call (215) 357-6357 for assistance.
- Family Pet Clinic, Horsham: Visit the clinic at 278 Easton Road, Horsham, PA 19044, or call (267) 387-8176 for assistance.
Conclusion
With in-house ultrasound now available at Family Pet Clinic in Southampton, Feasterville, and Horsham, getting a closer look at your pet’s health is more convenient. This service helps our veterinary team gather important information, understand your pet’s needs, and plan appropriate care. Our goal is to make every visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible, helping your pet receive attentive care and move toward a healthier, happier life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does a pet ultrasound take?
Ans: The scan itself is usually fairly quick, but the full appointment takes longer once check-in, preparation, and a review of the results are included. The exact time depends on the type of scan and your pet’s needs, so our team will give you a better idea when you call to book.
Q2: Does my pet need sedation for an ultrasound?
Ans: Pets need to stay still for clear images, so we use pre-medications (premeds) tailored to your pet’s age, health, and temperament. Your veterinary team will talk with you about what’s right for your pet before the appointment.
Q3: Is a pet ultrasound safe?
Ans: Yes, ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation, and it is non-invasive. Most pets tolerate it well.
Q4: Does an ultrasound hurt?
Ans: No, the scan is painless. Your pet will feel a little warm gel and the gentle pressure of the probe, and we’ll shave a small patch of fur so the images are clear.
Q5. Does my pet need to fast before an ultrasound?
Ans: Yes. Fasting is required, and we’ll tell you exactly what to do when you book. Following the instructions closely helps us get the clearest images possible.
Q6: What types of ultrasound do you offer?
Ans: We offer abdominal ultrasound and echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart), performed by our visiting sonographers.
Q7: Do I need a referral to get an ultrasound?
Ans: No, because we offer ultrasound in-house, your pet’s own veterinary team can arrange it, so there’s no need to visit a separate facility.
Q8: How do I book my pet’s ultrasound?
Ans: Ultrasound appointments are booked by phone. Call your nearest Family Pet Clinic hospital in Southampton, Feasterville, or Horsham to schedule.