Pet Imaging & Labwork

At River Ridge Animal Hospital, we provide advanced pet imaging and labwork services to ensure accurate diagnoses and create effective treatment plans for your pet.

What Is Pet Imaging?

Pet imaging refers to the use of non-invasive techniques to view the internal structures of your pet’s body. At River Ridge Animal Hospital, we use imaging to identify a wide range of conditions, from fractures and tumors to internal organ issues. Common types of imaging include X-rays and ultrasound, both of which provide vital information about your pet’s health without the need for surgery or invasive procedures.

Two vets doing an X-ray of a pet

Types of Pet Imaging We Offer

Our veterinary team utilizes two primary types of pet imaging at our hospital:

  • X-Rays: X-rays are particularly useful for examining your pet’s bones and joints. They help identify fractures, arthritis, and other bone-related conditions. X-rays can also detect abnormalities in the chest and abdomen, providing valuable insight into your pet’s overall health.
  • Ultrasound: Ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses sound waves to create images of your pet’s internal organs. This method is ideal for evaluating soft tissues such as the liver, kidneys, and heart. Ultrasounds are commonly used to diagnose issues like organ disease, pregnancy, and tumors.

Pet Imaging

Pet imaging plays a critical role in diagnosing various health conditions early. By providing a clear view of your pet’s internal structures, it allows us to detect problems that may not be visible through a physical examination. Early detection means that treatment can begin sooner, potentially preventing more serious complications.

Accurate Diagnosis

Pet imaging allows veterinarians to get a detailed view of your pet’s internal structures, helping to accurately diagnose conditions like fractures, organ issues, or tumors without the need for invasive procedures.

Early Detection

Imaging can identify health problems early, often before symptoms become severe. Early detection leads to quicker treatment, which can prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Non-Invasive

Pet imaging techniques such as X-rays and ultrasounds are non-invasive, minimizing stress and discomfort for your pet while providing critical information for effective care.

When Is Pet Imaging Necessary?

Pet imaging may be necessary when your pet is experiencing symptoms that require a closer examination of their internal organs or structures. Common signs include limping, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or unexplained weight loss. Imaging can also be essential for diagnosing conditions that are not visible through a physical exam, such as internal injuries, organ disease, or tumors. Additionally, pet imaging may be recommended during routine check-ups for pets with chronic conditions, helping monitor their health over time and ensuring timely adjustments to treatment.

Trust River Ridge Animal Hospital for Pet Imaging in Dixon, IL

Our pet imaging services at River Ridge Animal Hospital provide the insight needed to accurately diagnose and treat your pet. Our compassionate team is dedicated to offering high-quality care, ensuring your pet’s health is managed effectively. If you have concerns about your pet’s well-being, or if they are showing symptoms that require further investigation, contact us today to schedule an appointment for pet imaging in Dixon, IL. We are here to support your pet’s health with comprehensive diagnostic services.

Pet Laboratory

Our complete in-house laboratory gives us immediate diagnostic capabilities when treating sick or injured pets, allows us to evaluate surgical patients prior to anesthesia, and gives us same-day results on wellness blood screens. Our equipment can provide complete blood counts, chemistries, basic endocrine assays as well as infectious disease panels, coagulation panels and blood gases. We also have state-of-the-art monitors to check blood pressure, ocular pressure, and EKG.

A vet in a lab coat engages with a machine

Comprehensive Diagnostic Services

Our pet laboratory in Dixon, IL, offers a range of diagnostic services designed to address both preventive and urgent needs. These services include:

  • Bloodwork: Blood tests help us assess your pet’s overall health, check for infections, and evaluate organ function. This is particularly important for older pets or pets undergoing surgery.

  • Urinalysis: Urinalysis helps us detect urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and other metabolic conditions by analyzing your pet’s urine.

  • Fecal Exams: Routine fecal testing is essential for detecting parasites like worms, which can cause a variety of health issues in pets.

  • Cytology: Cytology allows us to examine cells from your pet’s skin, ears, or other tissues to check for infections, tumors, or other conditions.

Benefits of Our In-House Pet Laboratory

Having a pet laboratory on-site at River Ridge Animal Hospital is key to our individualized approach to care, providing:

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Faster Results

Same-day results mean that we can begin treatment quickly, minimizing any delay in your pet’s care.

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Accurate Diagnosis

Comprehensive testing helps us make informed decisions about your pet’s health and allows us to tailor treatment plans specifically to their needs.

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Convenience

With in-house testing, there’s no need to send samples to an external lab, making the process faster and more convenient for both you and your pet.

When Is Laboratory Testing Necessary?

Laboratory testing is often recommended for routine wellness exams, as part of pre-surgical assessments, or when your pet is showing signs of illness. Common symptoms that may indicate the need for lab work include changes in appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or abnormal behavior. Early detection of potential health problems can lead to more effective treatment and a better prognosis for your pet.

Why Choose River Ridge Animal Hospital?

River Ridge Animal Hospital is committed to providing personalized, compassionate care for your pet. Our experienced veterinary team, combined with our in-house pet laboratory, ensures that your pet receives prompt and accurate diagnostics. We prioritize your pet’s health and well-being, offering a full range of diagnostic and preventive services under one roof. With our focus on delivering timely results and high-quality care, we strive to make every visit as stress-free and effective as possible, giving you peace of mind knowing your pet is in capable hands.

Veterinary Services in Dixon, IL

Cat Dentistry

Dog Dentistry

Dog Daycare

Pet Boarding

Pet Chemotherapy

Pet Grooming

Pet Hospitalization

Pet Imaging & Labwork

Laser Therapy & Surgery

Pet Memorials

Pet Pain Management

Pet Pharmacy

Pet Preventative Health

Pet Surgery

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