Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions, Answered
How long will the appointment last?
You will drop your pet off at your primary veterinarian's office in the morning and we will be there during our hours of operation to perform the scan. You will then pick your pet up from your veterinarian's office at the end of the day or when the scan is over, whichever comes first. This is done in an effort to make sure there is plenty of time to get to all of the different hospitals for the day.
Can my pet eat or drink prior to the appointment?
Echocardiogram: Your pet may drink or eat prior to this scan, as this does not affect the test.
Abdominal Ultrasound: Your pet will have to be fasted for 12 hours prior to this test. Fasting keeps food in the intestines and stomach from interfering with the image quality.
Will my pet have to be shaved?
Echocardiogram: Yes, but only minimally. A small 2x2 inch square will be shaved underneath both armpits and right below the sternum.
Abdominal Ultrasound: Yes, the entire stomach must be clipped from the bottom of the sternum down to the pelvis. This clip will extend a little ways out to the sides of the stomach as well.
Will you have to sedate my pet or put them under anesthesia to do the scan?
Most pets are very tolerant of both echos and abdominal ultrasounds. They are in a dark, quiet room and an assistant gently holds them on their side or back while the scan is performed. On occasion, some patients may require a little bit of medicine to help them calm down for their exam.