Advanced Diagnostic Imaging for Your Pet
At Angel City Animal Hospital, we utilize state-of-the-art digital radiology to gain a clear, detailed look inside your pet's body. Unlike older film-based X-rays, our digital radiography system captures high-resolution images in seconds, allowing our veterinary team to evaluate your pet's condition immediately and start treatment without delay.
X-rays are an essential, non-invasive diagnostic tool that help us assess internal systems, locate foreign objects, and detect bone fractures or joint disease. By using advanced digital imaging, we minimize stress for your pet, limit exposure to radiation, and achieve a higher standard of care.
Comprehensive Radiology Services
Our veterinary team utilizes digital radiography to diagnose and monitor a wide range of internal health conditions, including:
🦴 Bone & Joint Imaging
Identifying fractures, dislocations, bone tumors, and assessing joint health for arthritis or hip dysplasia.
🐾 Foreign Body Detection
Locating accidentally swallowed objects in the stomach, esophagus, or intestinal tract to determine if surgery is needed.
❤️ Cardiopulmonary Exams
Evaluating heart size and shape, detecting fluid in the lungs, and diagnosing respiratory issues like bronchitis or asthma.
🩺 Abdominal Assessments
Checking the size, shape, and position of major internal organs like the liver, kidneys, spleen, and bladder.
🦷 Dental Radiology
Identifying hidden decay, tooth root abscesses, and bone loss beneath the gumline to prevent painful dental disease.
🐾 Specialist Referrals
Quickly exporting digital X-ray files to board-certified veterinary radiologists for rapid, expert second opinions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet X-Rays
Learn more about how digital radiology works and what to expect for your pet.
What is a digital pet X-ray and how is it used?
Digital pet radiology (X-rays) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that allows us to look inside your pet's body. It is used to evaluate bones for fractures or arthritis, identify foreign objects in the digestive tract, check heart and lung size, and examine abdominal organs.
Does my pet need to be sedated for an X-ray?
Most pets do not require sedation or anesthesia for routine X-rays. However, if your pet is in pain, highly anxious, or if we need very precise, still positioning (such as for orthopedic or hip evaluations), a light sedative may be administered to ensure their comfort and safety.
Are pet X-rays safe?
Yes, digital X-rays are extremely safe. Our state-of-the-art digital radiography system uses minimal radiation levels to capture high-quality images. The exposure time is a fraction of a second, minimizing any potential risk to your pet.
How long does it take to get X-ray results?
Since we use digital radiography, the images are processed instantly on our computer screens. Our veterinarians will review the images with you during your appointment. If needed, we can also quickly email the digital files to a veterinary radiologist for a specialist review.
What is the difference between an X-ray and an ultrasound?
An X-ray is best for looking at hard tissues like bones, joints, and foreign bodies, as well as the overall size and shape of internal organs. An ultrasound uses sound waves to look at the internal structure and movement of soft organs, such as blood flow through the heart or the layers of the bladder and intestines.
Need Diagnostic Imaging for Your Pet?
Get fast, precise results to support your pet's health. Contact Angel City Animal Hospital to schedule an appointment or consultation.