Pet Ultrasounds at North Oatlands Animal Hospital | Safe, Painless Diagnostics
When your pet isn’t feeling well or you need to monitor a pregnancy, getting answers quickly—and accurately—is key. That’s where ultrasound comes in. At North Oatlands Animal Hospital and Reproductive Center, we offer advanced ultrasound imaging to help our veterinary team see what’s happening inside your pet’s body without the need for invasive procedures.
Ultrasound is a diagnostic tool that uses sound waves to create images of internal organs and soft tissues. Unlike X-rays, which are great for looking at bones, ultrasounds provide clear pictures of structures like the heart, liver, kidneys, bladder, intestines, and reproductive organs. The process is entirely non-invasive and does not use radiation, making it a safe option for pets of all ages.
One of the most common uses for ultrasound at our hospital is evaluating a pet’s internal health when they’re experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, weight loss, or changes in urination. It allows our veterinarians to assess organ function, detect tumors or cysts, identify blockages, and spot signs of infection or inflammation. Because ultrasounds can provide a real-time view, we can observe how organs are working as the body functions normally, which helps us make more accurate diagnoses.
For pet parents with pregnant animals, ultrasound is an essential part of reproductive care. It enables us to confirm pregnancy, estimate the number of developing puppies or kittens, and monitor fetal development. Early pregnancy detection through ultrasound typically becomes possible around 25 to 30 days after breeding. At North Oatlands, we use this information to help guide responsible breeding decisions, ensure maternal health, and prepare for delivery.
In cases involving reproductive health concerns, ultrasound is especially helpful. For example, if a dog is experiencing difficulty becoming pregnant or showing unusual symptoms during a heat cycle, ultrasound can reveal potential issues with the uterus or ovaries. It’s also used to detect conditions such as pyometra—a life-threatening uterine infection—or to confirm whether a retained placenta is present after birth.
Most pets tolerate ultrasounds very well. The procedure is generally performed while the pet lies comfortably on a padded table, and sedation is rarely needed unless the pet is especially anxious or painful. A small area of fur is usually shaved to allow the ultrasound probe to make contact with the skin, and a special gel is applied to enhance image clarity. The entire exam typically takes 20 to 45 minutes, and results are often available the same day.
Choosing an experienced team for your pet’s ultrasound matters. At North Oatlands Animal Hospital and Reproductive Center, our veterinarians are trained in advanced imaging techniques and reproductive medicine. Whether your pet needs a diagnostic ultrasound to investigate an illness or a routine scan to monitor a pregnancy, you can feel confident they’re receiving attentive, expert care.
Ultrasounds are more than just pictures—they're a window into your pet’s health. By helping us catch issues early and guide treatment effectively, ultrasound imaging can make a real difference in outcomes. It’s just one more way we’re committed to giving pets the best care possible in every stage of life.
If your pet needs an ultrasound or you're planning for a healthy pregnancy, trust the experienced team at North Oatlands Animal Hospital and Reproductive Center. Contact us today at (703) 777-7781 or visit us at 19275 James Monroe Highway,Leesburg, VA 20175 to schedule a consultation and get the answers your pet deserves.
