At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we're proud to offer state-of-the-art ultrasound technology, providing advanced, non-invasive imaging right here in our hospital. Ultrasound examinations are performed by Dr. Nichole Crainick, whose extensive experience in emergency and critical care medicine allows her to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions quickly and accurately.
What Is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses safe, high-frequency sound waves to create detailed, real-time images of your dog's internal organs. Unlike X-rays, which are best for evaluating bones and the overall size of organs, ultrasound allows us to examine the texture, blood flow, and function of soft tissues such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, pancreas, bladder, intestines, and lymph nodes.
The procedure is painless, does not use radiation, and is well tolerated by most dogs. In many cases, only a small area of fur needs to be clipped for the best image quality.
When Does a Dog Need an Ultrasound?
Your veterinarian may recommend an ultrasound if your dog has:
- Vomiting or diarrhea that doesn't improve
- Weight loss or decreased appetite
- Elevated liver or kidney values on blood work
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Difficulty urinating or blood in the urine
- Suspected bladder stones
- A mass detected on an exam or X-ray
- Fluid in the abdomen
- Chronic digestive problems
- Unexplained fever or lethargy
Ultrasound is also commonly used to evaluate the spleen, liver, pancreas, kidneys, adrenal glands, gallbladder, intestines, and urinary bladder when additional information is needed to make an accurate diagnosis.
Why Ultrasound Is So Valuable for Dogs
Dogs often show obvious signs when they aren't feeling well, but those symptoms can have many different causes. Ultrasound helps us determine what's happening inside the body without exploratory surgery.
It can help diagnose:
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder disease
- Bladder stones and urinary tract disorders
- Intestinal foreign bodies
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Benign and cancerous masses
- Internal bleeding or abdominal fluid
- Splenic disease
- Pregnancy and fetal evaluation
By identifying the underlying cause of your dog's symptoms, we can recommend the most effective treatment plan and avoid unnecessary procedures whenever possible.
The Benefits of In-House Ultrasound
Because our ultrasound is performed at Markham Woods Animal Hospital, your pet can often receive answers much sooner than waiting for an outside referral. Combined with our in-house laboratory, digital radiology, and comprehensive medical care, ultrasound allows us to diagnose conditions more efficiently and begin treatment sooner.
Advanced Care You Can Trust
Dr. Nichole Crainick brings years of emergency and critical care experience to every ultrasound examination, combining advanced diagnostic skills with compassionate, individualized care. Whether your dog has a sudden illness, a chronic condition, or simply needs a more detailed evaluation, our team is here to provide answers and guide you through every step.
At Markham Woods Animal Hospital, we're committed to combining advanced technology with personalized veterinary medicine to keep your dog healthy for years to come.
If your dog isn't feeling their best or your veterinarian recommends an ultrasound, contact Markham Woods Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment or learn more about our advanced diagnostic services. 407-682-3233
Dr. Crainick explaining her findings on this patients Gallbladder​.
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Nurse Kayla assuring our sweet patient during her In-House Ultrasound.