Equine
Ultrasounds
Equine ultrasounds are a valuable diagnostic tool our veterinary team uses to assess the health of your horse in a non-invasive and highly effective manner.
In-House and Mobile Ultrasound Services
An ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging tool that we are excited to be able to offer at Potlatch Veterinary Clinic. We have two units: an in-house and a mobile system. With these options, we are able to offer a wide range of ultrasound services, either in the clinic or at a client’s home or farm. An ultrasound can help not only with the diagnosis of an animal’s complaint but also with the performance of certain procedures.
At Potlatch Veterinary Clinic, we understand that not every horse owner has the ability to transport their animals for diagnostics. That’s why we offer both in-house and mobile ultrasound services. Our in-house system allows us to perform detailed imaging when horses visit the clinic, while our mobile unit enables us to bring advanced diagnostic capabilities directly to your farm or home. This flexibility ensures that your horse receives timely care, regardless of location.
Whether your horse requires reproductive monitoring, lameness evaluation, or diagnostic imaging for an illness, our mobile and in-house services ensure you receive the same level of comprehensive care.
Common Uses of Equine Ultrasounds
Equine ultrasounds are versatile and can be used in a variety of situations. Some of the most common applications include:
- Reproductive Health: Ultrasounds are frequently used to monitor pregnancy, assess fertility issues, and track the health of the reproductive system. This is an essential tool for breeders looking to monitor and ensure successful pregnancies.
- Lameness Diagnosis: When a horse becomes lame, ultrasounds help identify soft tissue injuries such as tendon or ligament damage. These injuries are often difficult to detect through physical exams alone, making ultrasounds a crucial part of the diagnostic process.
- Abdominal and Thoracic Imaging: Ultrasounds can be used to assess internal organs, such as the intestines, liver, and heart. This allows veterinarians to detect conditions like colic or other abdominal concerns without invasive procedures.
When to Consider Equine Ultrasounds
If your horse exhibits signs of lameness, abdominal discomfort, or reproductive issues, an ultrasound may be recommended. Horses that are part of a breeding program can benefit from regular reproductive ultrasounds to monitor the health of mares and foals. Additionally, performance horses prone to soft tissue injuries can benefit from routine imaging to detect potential issues early. By utilizing equine ultrasounds in Potlatch, ID, our veterinarians can diagnose problems early, allowing for quicker and more effective treatment.
Equine Ultrasound FAQs
What is an ultrasound and how does it work?
Ultrasounds are imaging tools that can assist doctors in seeing the internal organs of an animal. The picture is produced by high-frequency sound waves and not ionizing radiation (x-ray). The ultrasound’s images are captured in real time. This means that the doctors are able to see not just the structure but also the movement of internal organs.
When can an ultrasound be used to help diagnose or perform a procedure?
- Pregnancy
- Fluid in the abdomen or chest
- Reproductive exam