Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool for both dogs and cats, providing veterinarians with a
non-invasive way to examine the internal organs and detect a range of conditions.
Here are some common reasons why a pet might require an ultrasound:
Abdominal Issues: If a dog or cat is experiencing unexplained vomiting, diarrhea, or a distended abdomen, an ultrasound can help identify problems like gastrointestinal obstructions, tumors, or fluid buildup due to conditions like pancreatitis or liver disease.
Urinary Tract Concerns: Pets with signs of urinary distress, such as frequent urination, blood in the urine, or difficulty urinating, may need an ultrasound to evaluate the kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract for stones, infections, or tumors.
Heart Conditions: For pets with heart murmurs or irregular heartbeats, an ultrasound (specifically an echocardiogram) is used to assess the heart's structure and function. It can detect problems like heart enlargement, valve issues, or fluid around the heart.
Liver or Kidney Disorders: Ultrasound is often used to evaluate the size, shape, and texture of the liver and kidneys. It helps in diagnosing conditions such as kidney failure, cysts, tumors, or liver disease.
Pregnancy and Reproductive Health: Ultrasound is a critical tool in monitoring pregnancy in female pets, allowing veterinarians to confirm pregnancy, check fetal health, and assess for any complications like miscarriage or abnormal development.
Cancer Detection: Tumors in various organs, including the spleen, liver, and lymph nodes, can be detected early using ultrasound. Early detection allows for better treatment options and improved outcomes.
Fluid Accumulation: Conditions like ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen) or pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs) can be detected through ultrasound, helping to diagnose the underlying cause, whether it be heart disease, infection, or cancer.
An ultrasound provides a clear, real-time image of internal organs, allowing veterinarians to make accurate diagnoses and plan the best course of treatment for a pet’s health
What are the benefits of using our service?
There are no drop offs, only scheduled appointment times. You are welcomed to be present for the exam. Note: sedation prior to arrival at the clinic may be recommended and will vary by patient.
We are conveniently located on S. Colorado Avenue, near US 1 in downtown Stuart, FL
Meet Dr. Brent
Dr. Brent has been performing small animal ultrasounds for over 17 years!
Dr. Brent Crutchfield has been a small animal veterinarian since 2008, after graduating from Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph, Ontario. She immediately took an interest in ultrasound. She worked in busy private practices in British Columbia and North Carolina for 7 years before opening a mobile ultrasound business.
Originally from North Carolina, Dr. Crutchfield and her family moved to the Stuart area in 2021. She has been performing ultrasounds on a mobile basis for the past 10 years and has performed thousands of ultrasound exams.