Equine
Radiography
Our comprehensive equine radiography services at Potlatch Veterinary Clinic are available from both our in-house and mobile X-ray units to give your horses a thorough diagnosis wherever it’s easiest for them to receive care.
What Is Equine Radiography?
Equine radiography involves using X-rays to capture detailed images of a horse’s bones and joints. This technique is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as fractures, arthritis, and other bone-related issues. Unlike other imaging methods, radiography allows us to examine a horse’s skeletal system in great detail, providing crucial information that is difficult to obtain through physical examination alone.
In-house and Mobile Radiography Services
At Potlatch Veterinary Clinic, we understand that transporting large animals can be challenging. That’s why we offer both in-house and mobile equine radiography services. Our in-house radiography unit provides high-quality imaging for horses brought to the clinic, allowing for quick diagnosis and treatment planning. For horses that are unable to travel or in need of on-site care, our mobile x-ray system enables us to bring diagnostic capabilities directly to your farm or home. This flexibility ensures that your horse receives the care it needs without unnecessary stress.
Common Uses of Equine Radiography
Equine radiography is used in a variety of situations to help diagnose and monitor conditions affecting your horse’s health. Some of the most common applications include:
- Lameness Diagnosis: Radiographs are frequently used to pinpoint the cause of lameness by revealing fractures, joint issues, or bone abnormalities.
- Fracture and Injury Assessment: X-rays provide clear images of broken bones or other injuries, allowing veterinarians to develop targeted treatment plans.
- Pre-Purchase Examinations: Radiography is often recommended during pre-purchase exams to ensure the horse does not have any hidden skeletal issues that could affect its performance or health.
- Routine Health Monitoring: For horses with conditions like arthritis or other chronic bone issues, regular X-rays can help monitor the progression of the disease and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
Benefits of Equine Radiography
Equine radiography in Potlatch, ID, offers several key benefits for both horse owners and veterinarians. X-rays provide a non-invasive method for obtaining detailed images of the horse’s bones, making it easier to diagnose a range of conditions. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment, which can prevent minor injuries from becoming more serious. Additionally, radiography can be used to monitor the healing process after surgery or injury, ensuring that the horse’s recovery is progressing as expected.
Equine Radiography FAQs
What species of animal can be radiographed?
In theory, any animal can benefit from the diagnostic capabilities of a radiograph. With our variety of X-ray units, we are able to radiograph small animals (cats and dogs), birds, equines, and other farm animals in the clinic or at a client’s home or farm.
How much is it to X-ray my animal?
Radiographs are charged by the “view”. Please give us a call at 208-875-4838 (4VET) for a more accurate estimate.
What are some conditions that an X-ray can help diagnose?
X-rays can diagnose a wide range of conditions, including:
- Cancer
- Broken bones
- Broken and/or rotten tooth roots
- Hoof problems