Digital x-rays
Digital x-rays at our Woodbridge hospital help the doctor see your pet's bones, heart, lungs, and belly. Images appear fast, so you can look at them together.
What x-rays show
X-rays let the doctor look inside your dog or cat without surgery. Our hospital uses digital radiology, so the images appear on a screen within moments of being taken. The doctor can zoom in, adjust the contrast, and go over the pictures with you.
X-rays are most useful for seeing:
- Bones and joints, including arthritis and changes in the bone
- The size and shape of the heart and lungs
- Organs in the belly, such as the liver, stomach, and bladder
- Swallowed objects and some bladder stones
- Teeth and the bone around them (see dental care)
When the doctor may recommend x-rays
X-rays are often part of working out a problem. The doctor may suggest them if your pet is limping, has vomiting that keeps coming back, has a cough that lingers, seems sore in the belly or back, or if something feels unusual during the exam. They are also used to follow known conditions over time and sometimes before surgery. X-rays are often paired with bloodwork from our in-house laboratory.
What the visit is like
Most pets need no special preparation, but ask when you book in case the doctor wants your pet to skip a meal. A team member gently positions your pet on the table for each view. Most studies need two or more views of the same area, and your pet only has to stay still for a few seconds per image. You will typically wait while the images are taken, and then the doctor goes over the results with you.
Calm handling and sedation
Holding still in an unusual position can be hard for a pet that is sore, scared, or very wiggly. Gentle handling works for most patients. In some cases, the doctor may recommend sedation so your pet stays relaxed and the images come out clear. If sedation is advised, the doctor will explain why and what to expect before going ahead.
Safety
X-rays use a small amount of radiation for a very short time. For a pet who has x-rays now and then, the risk is very low and the information is often worth it. Staff wear protective gear and follow safety steps, which is one reason owners usually do not stay in the room. Tell us if your pet may be pregnant.
Booking an exam
X-rays are taken after the doctor examines your pet. To book a visit in Dale City, request an appointment or call (703) 680-4646.
Common questions
Does my pet need sedation for x-rays?
Many pets do not. Sedation may be recommended if your pet is sore, anxious, or cannot hold still, so the images are clear and the experience is less stressful.
Are x-rays safe for my pet?
The radiation dose is small and each exposure lasts only a moment. The doctor recommends x-rays when the information will help guide your pet's care.
Can I stay with my pet during x-rays?
Usually not, because of radiation safety rules for people in the room. Your pet is handled gently and returned to you as soon as the images are done.
Should my pet skip a meal before x-rays?
Sometimes, especially if sedation might be needed. Call (703) 680-4646 before the visit and we will tell you.
Why does the doctor take more than one image?
An x-ray is a flat picture. Views from different angles help the doctor judge the size, shape, and location of what is inside.
Can x-rays show everything?
No. They show bones and the outline of many organs well, but some soft-tissue problems are hard to see. The doctor may suggest bloodwork or other tests as well.
Can my pet's x-rays be shared with another hospital?
Digital images can be sent electronically if your pet needs care elsewhere. Just ask us if you need copies.
Questions, or ready to book?
Call us during open hours or send a request online and we will call you back to set a time.