Ultrasound

We welcome all animal species 

Ultrasound is the most frequently performed diagnostic imaging examination at SLU University Animal Hospital. Ultrasound is used for examining soft tissues, including internal organs, tendons, ligaments and joints. 

We use high performance ultrasound machines that are the same type used in human hospitals, but are optimized for the types of examinations performed on animals. Our dedicated team includes European specialists, residents, and radiology nurses.

How an ultrasound examination done

Ultrasound is completely harmless to the animal. Before an ultrasound examination, the area to be examined is shaved, cleaned, and ultrasound gel is applied. This allows for a clearer image during the examination.

For small animals, your pet should fast twelve hours and be properly walked to ensure the intestines are as empty as possible prior to the examination. If the urinary bladder is to be examined, it is important, if possible, that your pet has not urinated immediately before the visit. 

For most types of ultrasound examinations, animals are given a sedative injection—this is to achieve the best possible results from the examination and to reduce stress for the animal. An exception is cardiac ultrasound (examining the heart), where the animal should be fully awake. 

Book an appointment 

In most cases, a referral from a veterinarian is required to book an ultrasound examination. The referral should include information about how long your pet has had the issue, the findings from the clinical examination, the type of ultrasound needed, and the specific questions the referring veterinarian wants answered. A referral is not needed for pregnancy checks.

If your referral comes from a veterinarian at another clinic, we will contact you by phone to schedule an appointment, once we get the referral.

You are also welcome to contact us directly and book an appointment via phone or e-mail. Payment is made at our Small Animal Clinic's reception or our Horse Clinic's reception before you leave the animal hospital. 

Pregnancy Ultrasound and Screening 

You are welcome to visit us for a pregnancy ultrasound for your cat or dog—no referral is needed. The same applies to screening examinations for breeds that are part of a breeding program. Please contact us by phone or email to book an appointment.

For pregnancy checks on mares, please contact our Horse Clinic.