P.A.L.S. Lab Services

An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of the abdominal cavity. This allows for the assessment of vital organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, stomach, intestines, pancreas, and reproductive organs. It is also useful for detecting abnormalities such as tumors, cysts, fluid accumulation, and changes in organ structure.

Your veterinarian may recommend an abdominal ultrasound for several reasons, including:

• Abnormal bloodwork results

• Vomiting or diarrhea that persists

• Unexplained weight loss

• Changes in urination patterns

• Suspected tumors or masses

• Monitoring chronic conditions

• Pre-surgical evaluations

The procedure is painless and generally does not require sedation. However, sedation may be necessary for pets that are anxious or unable to remain still. The trained staff member will gently position your pet and apply a water-based gel to the abdomen to ensure good contact with the ultrasound probe.

During the ultrasound, the staff member will move the probe across your pet’s abdomen to capture images of the internal organs. The entire procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Once the ultrasound is complete, the images are sent to a board-certified veterinary radiologist for review. The radiologist carefully analyzes the images and prepares a detailed report, which includes findings and diagnostic recommendations. This report is then shared with you so that you can follow up with your veterinary care team as needed.

• Non-invasive and painless

• Provides valuable diagnostic information

• Helps guide treatment decisions

• Can detect conditions early for better outcomes

If your pet has been scheduled for an abdominal ultrasound or you have questions about the procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are committed to providing the highest standard of care to ensure your pet’s health and well-being.

A cardiac ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of the heart, including its chambers, valves, and surrounding structures. This imaging technique allows veterinarians to visualize how the heart is functioning and detect any abnormalities in its structure or rhythm.

Your veterinarian may recommend a cardiac ultrasound for various reasons, including:

• Detection of heart murmurs

• Signs of congestive heart failure (coughing, fluid accumulation, difficulty breathing)

• Unexplained lethargy or fatigue

• Monitoring congenital heart conditions

• Evaluation of heart disease progression

• Pre-anesthetic evaluation for high-risk pets

The procedure is painless and usually does not require sedation. However, sedation may be considered for pets that are anxious or unable to remain calm during the exam. The trained staff member will position your pet on a comfortable table, and a water-based gel will be applied to the chest area to ensure good contact with the ultrasound probe.

During the examination, the probe is gently moved across the chest to capture detailed images of the heart. The procedure typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

After the ultrasound is complete, the images are sent to a board-certified veterinary cardiologist or radiologist for review. The specialist carefully analyzes the images and prepares a comprehensive report, which includes findings and diagnostic recommendations. This report is shared with you so that you can schedule appropriate follow up as needed.

• Non-invasive and painless

• Provides valuable insight into heart function

• Helps guide treatment and management plans

• Detects heart conditions early for better outcomes

If your pet has been scheduled for a cardiac ultrasound or if you have questions about the procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are dedicated to providing compassionate care and advanced diagnostic services to ensure your pet’s heart health.