Veterinary Ultrasound in Bellevue, WA
Ultrasound is a quick, painless diagnostic procedure that uses sound waves to let us see inside your pet’s body in real time, without the radiation used in X-rays. At Animal Wellness and Rehab Center, we offer veterinary ultrasound along with our other diagnostic tools to help sick pets get answers and start feeling better sooner. For advanced cases, we also work with a visiting board-certified cardiologist and radiologist. The quicker we can find the problem, the sooner your pet can get back to their normal self.
What Ultrasound Can Show
Ultrasound gives a detailed view of soft tissues and organs that complements digital X-rays. It allows us to evaluate the size, shape, and internal structure of organs and see movement, such as blood flow and heart function. Ultrasound is commonly used to examine:
- The liver, spleen, kidneys, and bladder
- The stomach and intestines
- The heart, through echocardiography
- Masses, cysts, and fluid in the abdomen or chest
- Pregnancy
When We Recommend an Ultrasound
We may recommend ultrasound if your pet has abnormal blood work, vomiting or diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, urinary problems, a heart murmur, or a suspected mass. Ultrasound can also guide needle sampling of organs or fluid for further testing in our in-house laboratory and is an important part of cancer consults.
What to Expect
Ultrasound is non-invasive. A small area of fur may be shaved so the probe can make good contact with the skin, and most pets lie comfortably on a padded table during the exam. Some pets may need fasting beforehand or light sedation to stay relaxed. Results help our veterinarians build the right treatment plan, whether that means medication, surgery, or holistic and integrative care.
Veterinary Ultrasound FAQs
Is ultrasound safe for my pet?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation and is a safe, painless procedure.
Will my pet need to be sedated for an ultrasound?
Many pets do well awake. Light sedation may be recommended for anxious pets or to keep them still for a clearer image.
Why does my pet need to be shaved for an ultrasound?
Removing a small patch of fur allows the probe to make good contact with the skin for clearer images.
What is the difference between an ultrasound and an X-ray?
X-rays are best for bones and the overall size of organs, while ultrasound shows the internal structure of soft tissues in real time.
Should my pet fast before an ultrasound?
For abdominal ultrasounds, we often recommend withholding food for several hours. We’ll give you specific instructions when scheduling.
Do you offer heart ultrasounds?
Yes. We work with a visiting board-certified cardiologist for echocardiograms and advanced cardiac evaluations.
Get Clear Answers About Your Pet’s Health
If your veterinarian recommends an ultrasound, call Animal Wellness and Rehab Center at (425) 455-8900 or request an appointment online.