Our practice is equipped with the latest diagnostic imaging technology in order to help reach a diagnosis for your pet. Diagnostic imaging is often required alongside a thorough clinical examination and other tests in order to establish an overall picture of your pet’s health.
Digital X-rays
Digital X-rays allow us to obtain optimal quality images. They are routinely used to provide valuable information on internal health, including that of:
- Bones.
- Gastrointestinal tract (stomach, intestines, colon).
- Respiratory tract (lungs).
- Heart.
- Genitourinary system (bladder, prostate).
We are also the only practice in Oxfordshire which is taking part in a screening programme for Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), in association with the Dachshund Breeding Council. This involves taking a series of X-rays of the spine under sedation, which are then referred to a specialist who will assign the risk of this genetic disease. The scheme will help to breed healthier Dachshunds in future. We are also able to offer X-rays for BVA/Kennel Club hip and elbow scoring for particular breeds.
We provide dental X-rays at our Botley and Kidlington branches, in order to assess dental problems below the gum line that may be causing your pet discomfort.
Most of our X-rays require sedation or general anaesthesia.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound allows us to view abdominal organs in high definition using high frequency sound waves. These sound waves are generated by a probe and bounce off organs. The probe picks up the signals to produce an image on the computer screen. Ultrasound is a non invasive procedure and can often be done conscious or under light sedation. If required, we will use ultrasound guidance to take biopsy samples from organs that look abnormal.
Echocardiography is a non invasive technique to create ultrasound images of the heart and obtain invaluable information such as size and shape of the chambers, pumping capacity and location and extent of any abnormalities. The use of Doppler ultrasound can produce accurate assessment of the blood flowing through the heart or any leaking of blood through the valves.
Endoscopy
Endoscopy involves using a small camera on a probe to generate live video imaging of the inside of organs such as the stomach and the lungs. This can help to detect respiratory disease, foreign bodies and stomach tumours or ulcers. Your pet will need general anaesthesia for endoscopy.
