Veterinary medicine has progressed spectacularly in recent years. Even the smallest practices now having access to top of the range technology that would have previously only been available to the most well-funded clinics.
One illustrative example is veterinary ultrasound. This has become more accessible than ever before thanks to falling prices and greater consumer choice.
Vet ultrasounds can now be used to detect ailments easily in all species, from the smallest household rodent up to fully-grown horses. If you’re wondering how it works and how it can benefit your practice, read on to find out.
Choosing a Veterinary Ultrasound
If you’re searching for a veterinary ultrasound machine for your practice, the choice can seem staggering.
There are the more basic, lightweight, non-color ultrasound scanners which start at around $5000. Right up at the top end of the spectrum are the seriously high-tech systems which can easily run you up to $100,000.
It’s all about the needs of your practice and the types of cases you can expect to deal with on a regular basis. An industry staple for most standard practices is the Samsung Veterinary Ultrasound. It offers high-quality detection and analysis at much more affordable prices than other brands.
Your practice may be a little more specialized if you deal with conditions and animals that most practices don’t. In this case, you may want to speak to a consultant about which veterinary ultrasound is right for you.
Knowing When to Use It
Your animal ultrasound should be used much like it is in humans. They are most useful for looking at fluid-filled, soft organs such as the heart, kidney, bladder, and liver.
An ultrasound veterinary should be aware that they are not as effective in examining bones or other mineral structures. They are also not very effective at scanning air-filled organs such as the lungs.
If you’re doing an outcall, you may wonder whether it is appropriate to bring your ultrasound with you. Having a lightweight, portable ultrasound kit means that you will be able to transport it easily to deal with a wide variety of incidents.
There are, of course, cases where ultrasound is simply not necessary. Use your judgment and make sure to ask the animal owner as many questions as possible before your outcall.
What Animal Owners Should Know
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the use of animal ultrasound can sometimes cause alarm in cautious pet owners. They may think that there are harmful “rays” in the ultrasound, or that the experience may frighten their pet.
It is important to address the concerns of your customers. Let them know that animal ultrasound is completely harmless and will not cause any pain or undue stress to the animal whatsoever.
Also, remember to tell your customer not to feed their pet the night before an ultrasound scan. A full stomach can complicate organ imaging. They should also not let their pet urinate a full three hours before an exam. Also, make sure your pet is well-rested and well-slept beforehand.
Animal ultrasounds are now commonly used in the vast majority of veterinary practices. Be sure to let them know that and give them the peace of mind they seek.
Learn More
A veterinary ultrasound is a vital tool that has helped improve animal healthcare significantly. To learn more about the latest advancements and tips in health, make sure to follow our health section today.
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