Diagnostic Imaging

Radiographs

Our clinic is fully set up to take radiographs (often called X-rays) of your pet. Radiographs are very important to help us diagnose diseases in animals, particularly for conditions involving bones, the chest or abdomen. They’re great for diagnosing a range of issues from fractures and arthritis to chest and abdominal concerns, such as certain heart issues or blockages in the digestive system. X-rays are quick, painless, and in many cases, can be done during your pet’s visit or with a short stay in the clinic.

Both the Pet Vets clinics utilise digital DR system, to capture digital radiographic images. Direct Radiology (DR) is the latest in the digital imaging and is only available in select veterinary practices in Auckland. This system allows us to capture and analyse images and choose appropriate treatment options immediately. We can manipulate the contrast of the image for more accurate diagnosis. Digital radiology allows us to magnify very specific areas of the image with no loss of quality. Moreover, we can electronically send the digital images to the specialist radiologists for advanced evaluation, and discussion on treatments as necessary.

Abdominal Ultrasound for Dogs and Cats

At Pet Vets, we provide abdominal ultrasound scans for pets in South Auckland to help diagnose a wide range of internal health concerns. This safe, non-invasive imaging test allows our veterinarians to assess the size, shape and structure of organs within the abdomen in real time.

An ultrasound scan can provide valuable information that helps guide treatment decisions, monitor ongoing conditions, and support early diagnosis of disease. We also offer pregnancy ultrasound scans for dogs from approximately 28–38 days after mating.

When is an Abdominal Ultrasound Recommended?

Abdominal ultrasound is commonly used to investigate a variety of symptoms and abnormalities affecting internal organs.

Your veterinarian may suggest a dog or cat abdominal ultrasound to:

This advanced imaging helps us reach a more accurate diagnosis and develop the most appropriate treatment plan for your pet.

Heart Ultrasound (Echocardiography) for Pets

At Pet Vets, we provide heart ultrasound (echocardiography) for dogs and cats in South Auckland to help assess heart murmurs and detect underlying heart disease. This advanced, non-invasive imaging test allows our veterinarians to evaluate your pet’s heart structure and function in real time.

Heart scans are commonly recommended if a murmur is detected during a routine check-up or before general anaesthesia, surgery, or dental procedures. Identifying heart conditions early helps us tailor treatment plans and reduce anaesthetic risk — giving you greater peace of mind.

On the day of your pet’s X-rays, Abdominal ultrasound scan or Echocardiography

Most of our patients are admitted into the hospital for the day to have radiographs or ultrasound scans.

We ask that you bring your pet fasted on the morning of admission, as they will most likely be sedated or anaesthetised to allow us to take the best quality radiographs possible or Scans. We will clip the hair around the abdomen and chest respectively for abdominal ultrasound and echocardiography. Once the radiographs or ultrasound scans are completed, we will give you a call to discuss the findings and plan treatment or next steps.

Book a Pet Abdominal Ultrasound Scan and Heart Scan in South Auckland

If your pet requires diagnostic imaging, our friendly team is here to help. Contact us to discuss your pet’s needs and book an appointment.