Digital Radiology in Pacific Grove, CA
Pacific Grove Animal Hospital offers digital radiographs as part of dental screenings, as well as for various other parts of your pet’s body. A quicker diagnosis leads to quicker treatment and a better prognosis for your pet.
Understanding Digital Radiology
Digital radiographs, or X-rays, are a non-invasive way to look inside your pet’s body. They are routinely used to diagnose and examine broken bones, obstructions, orthopedic problems, tumors, bladder stones, heart enlargement, and more. We can also use digital X-rays to confirm pregnancies or detect ingested objects.
Because digital images are ready to view within moments rather than developed on film, our veterinarians can review them quickly and move on to treatment without unnecessary delay.
What to Expect During Digital Radiology
When your pet needs X-rays, our team keeps the process as comfortable and efficient as possible.
Exam and Preparation
We start with a physical exam and a discussion of your pet’s symptoms, and we explain why imaging is recommended. Many pets can be X-rayed while awake, but if your pet is anxious or in discomfort, sedation may be recommended.
Taking the Images
Your pet is positioned carefully for each view of the area of concern. Our veterinarians check the images right away to make sure every needed view has been captured.
Dental Radiographs
Digital dental radiographs are performed on every dental cleaning, so problems below the gumline aren’t missed.
Specialist Consultation and Next Steps
Our hospital maintains excellent relationships with veterinary specialists, so we can electronically share the digital images on difficult cases and receive a quick consultation. We then go over the findings with you and outline the recommended next steps.
Why Digital Radiology Matters for Your Pet
X-rays give your veterinarian information a physical exam alone can’t provide, which guides an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Quicker Diagnosis
Digital images are available quickly, so your veterinarian can identify problems like fractures, obstructions, or ingested objects and start care sooner.
Non-Invasive
Radiographs let your veterinarian see bones, the chest, and the abdomen without surgery, and the process is quick for most pets.
Easy to Share
Digital images can be sent electronically to specialists, so difficult cases can get a second set of expert eyes quickly.
Signs Your Pet May Need X-Rays
Your veterinarian may recommend radiographs if your pet shows signs such as:
- Limping, lameness, or difficulty walking
- Sudden swelling or pain
- Persistent vomiting, or a suspected swallowed object
- Straining to urinate or blood in the urine
- Coughing or difficulty breathing
If your pet is in severe pain or distress, contact us right away during business hours. After hours, contact the closest 24-hour emergency hospital.
How Often Does Your Pet Need Radiographs?
Radiographs are taken as needed rather than on a routine schedule: to investigate symptoms, monitor chronic conditions, or follow healing after an injury or surgery. Dental radiographs are part of every dental cleaning.
Practice Highlights
- On-Site Digital Radiology, including digital dental X-rays
- Visiting Radiologist, plus collaboration with specialists in cardiology, surgery, internal medicine, and ophthalmology
- On-Site Ultrasound and In-House Diagnostic Laboratory
- AAHA Accredited and voted Best Vet in Monterey County six years in a row
Schedule Your Pet’s Digital Radiology Appointment Today
Get answers about your pet’s health quickly. Call our team at (831) 318-0306 to schedule an exam. We are located at 1023 Austin Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 and open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, including during the lunch hour.
Digital Radiology: Frequently Asked Questions
What is digital radiology, and how does it help my pet?
Digital radiology uses X-rays to create images of your pet’s bones, organs, and other internal structures. Images are available quickly, and a quicker diagnosis leads to quicker treatment and a better prognosis for your pet.
Are X-rays part of my pet’s dental cleaning?
Yes. Digital dental radiographs are performed on every dental cleaning at Pacific Grove Animal Hospital. They let our veterinarians see the roots and bone below the gumline.
Does my pet need any special preparation for X-rays?
Usually not. Some pets are more comfortable with sedation, in which case our team will give you instructions ahead of time. Your veterinarian will let you know what your pet needs.
What conditions can X-rays help diagnose?
Radiographs are routinely used to examine broken bones, obstructions, orthopedic problems, tumors, bladder stones, and heart enlargement. They can also confirm pregnancies and detect ingested objects.
How do I schedule a digital radiology appointment, and what are your hours?
Call (831) 318-0306 or visit us at 1023 Austin Avenue, Pacific Grove, CA 93950. We are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:30 pm, including during the lunch hour.
Ready to book Digital Radiology?
Request a time online or give our front desk a call. New and returning patients are welcome.
