DIAGNOSTICS: TECHNOLOGY & DISEASE DETECTION
How can you detect what is wrong with my pet?
At Woodsdale Animal Hospital, we use a variety of diagnostic techniques and procedures when a disease or condition is suspected. In combination with our in-house veterinary laboratory and diagnostic skills, we employ diagnostic imaging. This non-invasive method of obtaining information allows our veterinarian to determine existence, severity, and location of a condition or disease. Digital X-rays and ultrasound are available typically in same day appointments or drop-offs and allow rapid diagnosis for rapid treatment.
Ultrasound Imaging:
Ultrasounds allow us to look inside the abdomen or chest of an animal. Ultrasound scans project visual images of the body’s “real-time” operation. We can view blood flow, heartbeats, and gastrointestinal movement. They allow us to look within organs to evaluate size, shape, texture, and evaluate for abnormalities. Ultrasounds are used to investigate a variety of different health conditions, including cardiac function.
Ultrasound can be used to examine the liver, gall bladder, spleen, kidneys, bladder, prostate, adrenal glands, stomach, intestines, and, in some instances, the uterus and ovaries. This means it can help us to pinpoint the cause of common pet health issues such as vomiting, elevated kidney or liver values on blood tests, abnormal urination, unexplained weight loss, and much more. It is also highly valuable in emergency evaluations, looking for fluid, bleeding, or damage.
While having the latest ultrasound equipment and technology is important, it’s equally important to have the skills to interpret the results. Dr. Smith has attended specific and specialized training for ultrasound.
Digital Radiology:
Digital X-rays provide clearer images over film X-rays. The images produced can be enlarged and manipulated, providing detailed information. Our veterinary team can view the images in ways that are not possible with film X-ray. Greater information leads to faster diagnosis and more immediate treatment—speeding relief to your pet.
Digital X-rays are also quicker, which mean less time on the table and less stress for your pet, and they utilizer a smaller amount of radiation than older units. An added benefit of digital x-rays is the ease of sharing them, they can be emailed and sent electronically, if second opinions or referrals are in order, and they can be burned onto a cd.
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How is Dental Care at Woodsdale Animal Hospital different?We strive to provide a relaxed experience for you and your pet. Pets love to curl up on our cushy chairs! Our modern veterinary dental surgery suite appears similar to a dental office that you and your family would visit. We use much of the same equipment including high-speed dental units, digital dental radiography units, and leading edge anesthesia monitoring and delivery equipment.
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What is the difference between Peridonatal Disease and gingivitis?Periodontal (gum) disease is a progressive disease of the supporting tissues surrounding teeth and the main cause of early tooth loss. Periodonal disease starts when bacteria combines with food particles to form plaque on the teeth. Within days, minerals in the saliva bond with the plaque to form tartar, a hard substance that adheres to the teeth. The bacteria then work their way under the gums and cause gingivitis — inflammation of the gums. Once under the gums, the bacteria destroy the supporting tissue around the tooth, leading to tooth loss. This condition is known as periodontitis. Gingivitis and periodontitis make up the changes that are referred to as periodontal disease. The bacteria associated with periodontal disease can also travel in the bloodstream to infect the heart, kidneys, and liver.
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What is the risk of my pet developing paridontal disease?By some estimates, 85 percent of all pets have some level of periodontal disease by the time they are 3 years of age.
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What's involved with a dental cleaning for my cat or dog?A dental cleaning may include the following: • Removal of visible plaque and tartar from the teeth • Elimination of plaque and tartar from under the gum • Probing of dental sockets to assess dental disease • Polishing to smooth enamel scratches that may attract bacteria • Dental radiographs (X-rays) to evaluate problems below the gumline • Application of fluoride or a dental sealer • Removal or repair of fractured or infected teeth • Dental charting so progression of dental disease can be monitored over time • Inspection of the lips, tongue, and entire mouth for growths, wounds, or other problems
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What can I do at home to keep my dog or cat's mouth clean?Once a dental cleaning has been performed, you can take a number of steps at home to keep your pet’s teeth clean. Your veterinarian may recommend a plaque prevention product — a substance that you apply to your pet’s teeth and gums on a weekly basis. The product adheres to the teeth surface to create a barrier that prevents plaque from forming. Just as in people, daily brushing can help remove food particles from between your pet’s teeth. You can use a child’s toothbrush or purchase a finger brush from your veterinarian. Certain diets and treats can also help keep plaque and tartar to a minimum. The diets tend to have larger kibbles to provide abrasive action against the tooth surface when chewed. Or they may contain ingredients that help prevent tartar mineralization.
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What are the risks with anasthesia?Although anesthesia will always have risks, it’s safer now than ever and continues to improve so that the risks are very low and are far outweighed by the benefits. Most pets can go home on the day of the procedure, although they might seem a little groggy for the rest of the day.