Pet Ultrasound
Ultrasound shows the inside of organs in real time, without radiation. It's how the doctor looks at the liver, kidneys, bladder, intestines, and more. Our Midlothian clinic, on Steam Avenue off Midlothian Turnpike, does basic ultrasound on site.
Call (804) 603-9509. Ask about fasting when you book.
When it's an emergency: Don't wait for a scheduled ultrasound if your dog has a swollen belly and is retching without bringing anything up, a male cat is straining to urinate with little or nothing coming out, or your pet collapses or has pale gums. Go to a 24-hour emergency hospital when we're closed. Our Midlothian clinic is open 8 AM to 6 PM, seven days a week, and we don't provide overnight care.
Why the Doctor Might Recommend It
Abnormal blood work, especially liver or kidney values.
Vomiting or diarrhea that keeps coming back.
Blood in the urine, or bladder stones seen on an X-ray.
A mass felt on the exam.
Fluid in the belly.
Pregnancy confirmation.
How the Scan Works
Your pet lies on a padded table, usually on its back or side. A small patch of fur is shaved so the probe makes good contact, and gel is applied. Most pets stay still with gentle support; sedation may be used if your pet is anxious or painful. The UC Davis veterinary hospital explains what ultrasound can show and why it usually needs little restraint.
Food in the stomach can blur the view, so your pet may need to fast beforehand. Follow the instructions the team gives you.
"It's never fun taking a sick animal to the vet, but this practice put my mind at ease."
— Allyson W., Petfolk client.
Ultrasound or X-Ray First?
X-rays are often the first step: they're quick and show bones, gas, and the outline of organs. Ultrasound adds detail inside soft tissue. The doctor will explain which one answers your pet's question, or whether both are needed.
After the Scan
The doctor shares what the scan showed. For complex findings, images can be sent to a board-certified veterinary radiologist for an added fee, with results usually back within a few days. Results are available in the Petfolk app.
When the Scan Needs a Specialist
Every Petfolk center offers basic ultrasound, and advanced studies are referred out. Heart ultrasounds (echocardiograms) for a new murmur are usually done by a veterinary cardiologist, and complex abdominal studies may need a specialist; for Midlothian families, that usually means a Richmond-area specialty hospital.
Before a referral, ask whether your pet should fast, whether sedation is planned, and whether it's a drop-off appointment. The doctor here sends prior images and lab results with the referral.
What Drives the Cost
The cost depends on the area scanned, whether sedation is needed, and whether a radiologist reviews the images. You get an estimate before the scan.
Get a Clearer Look
Book a visit at our clinic on Steam Avenue. Call (804) 603-9509.