Ultrasounds and Echocardiograms

At the Animal Hospital of Orleans, we are committed to providing advanced diagnostic tools that help us evaluate your pet’s health quickly, accurately, and with minimal stress. Veterinary ultrasound and echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) allow us to look inside the body in real time without surgery, helping us diagnose and monitor a wide variety of medical conditions.

What Is Ultrasound?

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create detailed images of your pet’s internal organs. Unlike x-rays, which provide a static image, ultrasound allows us to visualize organs in motion and evaluate their structure and function.

Ultrasound can be used to examine:

• Liver
• Kidneys
• Spleen
• Bladder
• Gastrointestinal tract
• Adrenal glands
• Lymph nodes
• Reproductive organs
• Abdominal masses and tumors
• Fluid within the chest or abdomen

Ultrasound is often recommended when bloodwork, x-rays, or physical examination findings indicate the need for a more detailed evaluation.

Echocardiography (Cardiac Ultrasound)

An echocardiogram, or “echo,” is a specialized ultrasound of the heart. This non-invasive test allows us to assess the size, structure, and function of the heart while it is beating.

An echocardiogram can help diagnose and monitor:

• Heart murmurs
• Congestive heart failure
• Cardiomyopathy
• Valve disease
• Congenital heart defects
• Fluid around the heart
• Changes in heart function over time

This information helps us determine the most appropriate treatment plan and monitor your pet’s response to therapy.

Comfortable and Fear Free

Most ultrasound and echocardiogram procedures can be performed without anesthesia. Pets are gently positioned on a comfortable padded surface while images are obtained. In many cases, only a small area of fur needs to be clipped to provide the best image quality.

Our Fear Free approach focuses on minimizing stress and creating a positive experience for both pets and their families. We use gentle handling techniques and individualized care to ensure your pet remains as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure.

Advanced Diagnostics for Better Care

Ultrasound and echocardiography provide valuable information that cannot be obtained through physical examination alone. When combined with laboratory testing, digital radiography, and a thorough medical evaluation, these tools help us diagnose disease earlier, guide treatment decisions, and provide the highest level of care for your pet.

Because the sooner we find answers, the sooner we can help your pet feel their best.