Large Animal
Ultrasounds
Ultrasound technology is a powerful diagnostic tool allowing our veterinarians to gather detailed information about an animal’s internal structures non-invasively.
The Importance of Ultrasounds in Veterinary Medicine
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.
Ultrasounds are useful for diagnosing a variety of conditions, providing essential information that guides treatment decisions. Some common uses include:
- Pregnancy Detection: Ultrasounds can confirm pregnancy and monitor the development of fetuses, making it a valuable tool for breeders and livestock owners.
- Internal Organ Evaluation: They allow veterinarians to examine organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and bladder, helping to detect abnormalities or diseases early.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: For animals experiencing pain or lameness, ultrasound can reveal injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
- Fluid Collection: Ultrasound can guide veterinarians when collecting samples of fluid or tissue for further testing, ensuring accurate placement and less discomfort for the animal.
In-House and Mobile Ultrasound Services
At Potlatch Veterinary Clinic, we understand the importance of flexible care. Our in-house ultrasound system is available for animals brought to our clinic, providing quick and efficient imaging for animals with various health concerns. This service is ideal for animals experiencing gastrointestinal issues, urinary problems, or pregnancy, allowing us to offer a diagnosis and treatment plan without delay.
For large animals or clients who prefer farm visits, we also offer mobile ultrasound services. Our veterinarians can bring ultrasound technology directly to your home or farm, reducing the stress of transporting animals and providing a more comfortable experience. This is especially useful for livestock and equine owners who need pregnancy checks, internal evaluations, or assistance with herd management.
When to Consider Ultrasounds for Your Animal
There are several scenarios where ultrasounds in Potlatch, ID may be recommended for your animal. If your animal is showing signs of illness, such as vomiting, weight loss, or difficulty urinating, an ultrasound can help identify the underlying issue. In cases of trauma or injury, ultrasound imaging can reveal soft tissue damage that might not be visible through other diagnostic methods like X-rays.
For livestock and breeding animals, ultrasounds are crucial for monitoring reproductive health. They can confirm pregnancy early on, provide detailed information about fetal development, and detect any potential complications that could affect the pregnancy or birth. Livestock owners may also use ultrasounds to track the health of their herd, ensuring that animals are healthy and productive.
Ultrasounds
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.
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-rays). 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
- Pneumonia
- Bladder stones/inflammation
- Fluid in the abdomen or chest
- Reproductive exam