Ultrasound & Echocardiography in North Richland Hills
Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic method used to image your pet’s abdominal and chest organs and assess heart function. At Cornerstone Animal Hospital, we use ultrasound to detect a variety of conditions.
Request an AppointmentWe use ultrasound for:
- Evaluation of internal organs such as liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenals, intestines, stomach, uterus, prostate, and others for abnormalities
- Detection of abdominal or chest cancers (neoplasia)
- Identification of fluid or blood in the abdomen or chest
- Pregnancy confirmation
- Diagnosis of uterine infections (pyometra)
- Detection of foreign material in the stomach or intestines
- Assessment of fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites) or chest (pleural effusion)
- Fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion)
- Detection of stones in the urinary bladder or kidneys
Many of these conditions may not be visible to the naked eye or detectable through a physical exam alone. Ultrasound findings are often used alongside X-ray and our on-site laboratory services to give our doctors a complete picture before recommending treatment, whether that means medication, surgery, or continued monitoring through hospitalization and patient care.
Types of Ultrasound Exams We Offer
We provide routine AFAST ultrasounds, pregnancy checks, and basic ultrasound exams. For a detailed, thorough sonographic evaluation, referrals to a board-certified internist are available by appointment only.
For more information about ultrasound and echocardiography services, please contact us today at (817) 514-8387.
Is ultrasound safe for my pet?
Yes, ultrasound is a completely safe, non-invasive way to image internal organs and the heart without radiation.
Can ultrasound confirm pregnancy in pets?
Yes, ultrasound is commonly used to confirm pregnancy and monitor developing puppies or kittens.
Does my pet need to be sedated for an ultrasound?
Most ultrasound exams do not require sedation, though some anxious or painful pets may benefit from mild sedation for comfort.
What conditions can ultrasound help detect?
Ultrasound can help detect tumors, fluid buildup, bladder or kidney stones, uterine infections, and abnormalities in organs like the liver and spleen.
What is an AFAST ultrasound?
An AFAST ultrasound is a rapid abdominal scan often used in emergency or trauma situations to check for internal bleeding or fluid.
Do you refer out for advanced ultrasound evaluations?
Yes, for detailed sonographic evaluations, we can refer to a board-certified internist by appointment.
How does ultrasound differ from X-ray?
Ultrasound shows soft tissue detail and organ function in real time, while X-ray is better for viewing bones and certain dense structures.