Ultrasounds for Dogs & Cats
Ultrasounds for dogs and cats provide a detailed evaluation of internal organs, including the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder and gastrointestinal tract. Real-time imaging allows clinicians to assess structure, function and blood flow, offering critical insight into underlying disease.
Advanced soft tissue imaging for diagnosis & treatment
Experienced GARS veterinary imaging specialists perform imaging in a multidisciplinary hospital. Findings are reviewed alongside internal medicine, surgery and emergency teams, ensuring a coordinated approach to diagnosis and care.
Ultrasounds are often used alongside other imaging modalities, such as CT and fluoroscopy, to support a comprehensive diagnostic pathway in an animal referral hospital.
How ultrasounds help diagnosis
Ultrasounds play an important role in diagnosing a range of internal conditions, including:
- Liver cancer in dogs, including early structural and functional changes
- Portosystemic shunt in dogs, supporting diagnosis and treatment planning
- Urinary tract disease in dogs, including bladder and kidney conditions
- Abdominal masses and fluid accumulation
An ultrasound can also be used to guide procedures such as biopsies and fluid sampling, improving diagnostic accuracy and supporting targeted treatment.
When is an ultrasound recommended?
An ultrasound is recommended when pets present with signs that require a detailed assessment of internal organs.
These may include:
- Vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained weight loss
- Reduced appetite or lethargy
- Suspected liver disease, including liver cancer in dogs
- Suspected vascular conditions, such as portosystemic shunt in dogs
- Urinary symptoms linked to urinary tract disease in dogs
By providing real-time imaging, ultrasound supports earlier detection and more informed clinical decisions.
What to expect during imaging
Ultrasounds are generally well tolerated and often performed without sedation. In some cases, mild sedation may be required to ensure accurate imaging.
Patients are monitored throughout the procedure by experienced teams trained in veterinary anaesthesia and hospital care.
Imaging is performed and interpreted in real time, allowing clinicians to identify key findings quickly, particularly in emergency animal hospital situations.
Why Choose GARS for Ultrasound Services
GARS ultrasound procedures are delivered within a specialist hospital environment where imaging, diagnosis and treatment planning occur together.
- Specialist-led veterinary hospital 24/7
- Access to experienced vet imaging specialists
- Non-invasive, real-time diagnostic imaging
- Integrated care across internal medicine and surgery
- Advanced imaging capability for complex cases
Supporting pets across Geelong, the Surf Coast, Ballarat and regional Victoria.
Arranging an ultrasound referral
Ultrasounds for dogs are typically arranged through your primary veterinarian.
Referral requests can be arranged directly through GARS, a specialist veterinary referral hospital supporting clinics across Geelong and regional Victoria.
Referring veterinarians can also request mobile procedures by completing the online referral form. Our team will be in touch within 24 hours to confirm booking details. For urgent mobile referral enquiries, please email mobile@garsvets.com.au.
Pet owners seeking hospital-based care or general enquiries should contact our team directly.
Ultrasound costs
Costs vary depending on the complexity and duration of the scan. Estimates are provided prior to imaging to support informed decision-making.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ultrasound used for in dogs?
An ultrasound for dogs is used to assess internal organs, detect disease, guide procedures and monitor conditions in real time. It is commonly used for conditions such as liver cancer in dogs, portosystemic shunt in dogs, and urinary tract disease in dogs.
Is an ultrasound safe for dogs and cats?
Yes. Ultrasounds are non-invasive and do not use radiation, making them a safe imaging option when performed by experienced veterinary imaging specialists.MRI provides superior detail of the spinal cord, nerves and soft tissues, making it the preferred imaging modality for neurological disease.
Will my pet need sedation?
Most ultrasounds are performed without sedation, though some patients may require mild sedation for accurate imaging.
How long does an ultrasound take?
Most scans take between 20–40 minutes, depending on the area being assessed.
When is an ultrasound recommended?
An ultrasound is recommended when internal disease is suspected or when further investigation is required following initial examination or imaging.
Do I need a referral?
Yes. An ultrasound is typically arranged through your veterinarian and performed within a veterinary referral hospital.
When will the results be available?
Because imaging is assessed in real time, initial findings are often available immediately, with detailed reporting provided shortly after.
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Need non-invasive imaging to investigate internal disease?
Our Geelong-based team provides ultrasound services that support accurate diagnosis within a specialist, 24/7 hospital environment. Speak with your veterinarian or contact our team to arrange a referral to an experienced veterinary specialist team.
Clear imaging supports confident decisions when it matters most.