FAQs for Pet Owners

FAQ - commonly asked questions and answers from pet owners about SVI’s services

General FAQ

Why is SVI different? Why is it a better option for veterinary imaging?

At Sage Veterinary Imaging (SVI), we don’t just take images—we provide answers. Our approach to veterinary diagnostics is unlike any other, combining human-quality imaging technology, standardized precision, and real-time radiologist oversight to deliver unmatched diagnostic accuracy for your pet.

1. Human-Grade Imaging for Veterinary Medicine

Most veterinary imaging facilities rely on lower-field MRI and outdated CT technology, which can limit detail and clarity. At SVI, we use the same state-of-the-art MRI and CT scanners found in top human hospitals—including 3 Tesla MRI technology—which provides:

• Unparalleled image resolution for detecting subtle abnormalities earlier

• More accurate diagnoses to avoid unnecessary tests or exploratory surgery

• Faster, more confident treatment decisions for your pet’s health

Simply put, your pet receives the same high-quality imaging that you would expect in a leading human outpatient center.

2. Precision Through Standardization

Advanced equipment is only as good as the team operating it. While many veterinary imaging centers assign vet techs to perform scans as part of their daily duties, our imaging is performed by experienced MRI and CT technologists with over a decade of full-time scanning experience.

Additionally, we use proprietary imaging protocols, positioning techniques, and quality controls across all locations. No matter which SVI facility you visit, you can expect:

• Consistent, high-quality imaging every time

• Technologists trained specifically in MRI and CT scanning

• Results you and your veterinarian can trust

3. Real-Time Radiologist Oversight

Most veterinary imaging centers capture images first and analyze them later—meaning critical details could be missed. At SVI, our board-certified radiologists oversee every scan in real time. This allows them to:

• Make immediate adjustments for the clearest images possible

• Ensure no crucial detail is overlooked

• Deliver the most accurate, actionable results

Think of it like the difference between a cook following a recipe and a Michelin-starred chef—both might use the same ingredients, but expertise in refining, adapting, and perfecting the process leads to superior results.

4. A Transparent, Cost-Effective Alternative to Hospital-Based Imaging

Many veterinary MRIs and CTs are performed in specialty hospitals, where additional costs for IV fluids, hospitalization, and extended monitoring can significantly increase the final bill. 

At SVI, you receive:

• One upfront price with no surprise add-ons, and no pressure if we recommend additional imaging–just clear options

• Lower overall costs compared to specialty hospitals

• Faster scheduling—because we focus exclusively on diagnostics

5. The SVI 3T Difference: Team, Technology, and Training

At SVI, we are more than just an imaging center—we are a national center of excellence in veterinary diagnostic imaging. We are also a teaching hospital, dedicated to training the next generation of veterinary radiologists in the most advanced cross-sectional imaging technology available today.

Choosing the Right Imaging Provider for Your Pet

• Before selecting an imaging provider, ask these key questions:

• Are they using human-quality 3 Tesla MRI or lower quality “low-field” technology?

• Is a board-certified radiologist involved in real-time scan oversight?

• Who is performing the scan—an experienced MRI/CT technologist or a general vet tech?

• What additional costs might be added beyond the quoted imaging price?

At Sage Veterinary Imaging, we provide the highest standard of veterinary diagnostic imaging—giving you and your veterinarian the confidence to make the best decisions for your pet’s health.

What can I expect? What's the process?

At Sage Veterinary Imaging (SVI), we understand how important your pet is to you. Our mission as an outpatient imaging center is to provide fast, accurate answers about your pet’s health using advanced, human-grade imaging technology. Unlike a general veterinary clinic, we specialize in diagnostics—allowing your veterinarian to create the best possible treatment plan.

Because our process is different from a regular vet visit, we want to ensure you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after your pet’s appointment.

Please Note:

• Unlike a general vet clinic, we do not have exam rooms, so pet owners cannot stay with their pets during imaging.

• Our focus is diagnostics only—your veterinarian will determine the best treatment plan based on our findings. All reports will be sent to your veterinarian unless you request otherwise.

Our Commitment to Your Pet’s Health

At Sage Veterinary Imaging, we take pride in providing fast, high-quality diagnostic imaging in a stress-free environment. By following the steps below, you help us ensure the best possible experience and results for your pet.

If you have any additional questions before your appointment, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We look forward to helping you get the answers you need for your treasured pet!

Read on for more about each step of the process below. We also provide detailed FAQs here.

Step 1 - Referral and Scheduling

To ensure your pet receives the most appropriate diagnostic test, your veterinarian must complete our referral form here. Don’t worry about copying the link. Most vet offices are familiar with SVI and they know how to place the referral.

Once we receive the referral from your vet, our team will review it and reach out to you to schedule your pet’s imaging appointment.

If you just want to speak to us, you can call or email us using the contact info at the very bottom of this page, or click the “make an appointment” button to fill out the pet owner contact.

Step 2- Preparing for your pet’s visit

Proper preparation helps us ensure the best possible imaging results. Here’s how you can get your pet ready:

Fasting Requirements

• Pets must fast for 12 hours before the appointment.

• No food should be given the morning of the appointment, or we may need to reschedule.

• Water is fine, and your pet can continue drinking as usual.

• Morning medications can be given as prescribed by your vet.

Keeping Your Pet Calm

• To reduce stress and movement during imaging, we require that you give your pet an anti-anxiety medication (such as gabapentin or trazodone) the night before the appointment and again two hours before arrival.

• If your pet does not already have a prescription for one of these medications, please consult with your veterinarian in advance.

• If you are unable to administer the medication at home, we can do so at the appointment. However, this may result in an extra charge.

Step 3 - What to expect on appointment day

Check-In

• When you arrive, our receptionist will greet you and invite you to take a seat in the waiting area while we notify your assigned veterinary technician.

• Your assigned technician will:

• Confirm your pet’s scheduled procedure.

• Ask when your pet last ate and review any medications.

• Have you sign a consent form for the imaging.

• Provide an estimated pick-up time and explain when to expect results.

The Imaging Process

• Anesthesia is required for ALL MRIs and some CTs. This is essential to obtain diagnostic images. MRIs and CTs are very sensitive to motion.

• Anesthesia is NOT required for ultrasounds and many CTs

• If anesthesia is needed, we will fully explain the process and obtain your consent beforehand.

• A standard imaging procedure typically takes about three hours. However, analyzing the images takes additional time—our board-certified radiologists carefully review every scan before sending a report to your veterinarian.

Step 4 - Picking up your pet and payment

When your pet is ready for pickup our team will:

• Reach out to you to confirm the release time

• Give you a brief update on your pet’s condition

When you arrive to pick up your pet, our receptionist will:

• Call your assigned veterinary technician to confirm readiness.

• Process payment for the imaging service.

You will have an opportunity to speak with a doctor

• Any questions about the findings will be answered

Payment Information

• We do not accept cash or checks.

• We accept CareCredit (please create an account before your visit if using this option).

• All major credit cards are accepted.

• We can send a payment link or you can swipe your card.

Step 5 - Getting results and next steps

• If your pet’s case is urgent, we will call your veterinarian as soon as possible after the imaging is completed.

• A formal radiology report will be sent to your vet within 24 hours.

• Your veterinarian will also receive access to the images, should they need to review them.

• The report and images are available to you through your vet.

• Your veterinarian will discuss the findings with you and determine the next steps for your pet’s care.

Why do I need to drop off my pet?

Like other vet clinics, we closed our lobby in 2020 and reopened in 2021. During that time we found that scheduling groups of drop-offs and pick-ups together allowed us to serve roughly 25% more urgently needed ultrasounds daily. To continue serving a growing need for imaging services, we have decided to continue with this drop-off model. You are welcome to use our restroom or sit in our lobby if you need to get out of the heat/cold, but we often have too many clients and pets to fit in the space. Our drop-off and pick-up process will be fully explained when you call to set your appointment.

Does my animal really need to fast for 12 hours before their exam?

Yes. Food in the stomach will interfere with our ability to obtain good images and make a diagnosis. Please have your animal fast for 12 hours before your visit. If they don’t fast:     

• We sometimes have to repeat the exam later because we can’t get good images.

• The patient could aspirate or vomit and inhale the contents of their stomach, leading to possible pneumonia.

• If you have concerns about this, please discuss them with our scheduling team; we may be able to make modifications on a case-by-case basis.

Will my pet need lab screenings or cytology exams?

To ensure your safety and provide the best possible care, our team may suggest lab screenings or cytology exams before imaging or treatment. We'll discuss this with you beforehand so there are no surprises down the line. You are informed every step of the way.

Why is vet imaging more expensive than human?

Veterinary diagnostic imaging carries higher costs than its human counterpart due to factors such as specialized staffing requirements, the medical needs of the patients, expensive equipment, and the rising costs of supplies. In short, delivering advanced imaging to animals requires far more humans and far more space than the average human outpatient imaging facility. However, by understanding these underlying factors, pet owners can understand why these expenses are incurred. Read more here.

Can I accompany my pet during the imaging?

We understand that many pet owners expect to stay with their pet during exams and that many veterinary clinics are allowing pet parents full access. However, this is not possible in an imaging facility with strong magnets and radiation-producing equipment. For your safety, and to allow our staff to serve the maximum number of patients per day without interruption, we ask that you drop off your pet for a few hours and trust us to care for them just as we would our own pets.

Logistics FAQ

What should I do before I arrive for my pet’s exam?

You will receive detailed instructions from our scheduling team. Here are some important highlights:
Fasting: It is ideal for the pet to fast for 12 hours before an imaging appointment unless your pet is diabetic. Please do not feed your pet on the morning of your appointment or we will have to reschedule. Water does not need to be restricted. Morning medication is okay to give.

To reduce your pet’s anxiety: Please give Gabapentin or Trazodone the night before the appointment, followed by giving Gabapentin or Trazodone 2 hours before your scheduled appointment time. If your pet doesn’t already have a prescription for one of these drugs, or if you are unsure of the dosage, please ask your primary veterinarian for advice before your appointment at Sage Veterinary Imaging.

If you cannot administer these medications before the visit, we will likely do so during the appointment. Depending on how wiggly or nervous your pet is during the exam, we may need to administer additional drugs, which is an additional charge.

How do I get to your clinic?

Whether you are visiting our Texas or Utah locations, please do not use your car’s built-in GPS. Only Google Maps or Apple Maps will show our location correctly. 

What should I expect when I arrive for my appointment?

You can read the details here or watch this comprehensive video. CLICK HERE: What to expect.

Our reception team will greet you at the door at your scheduled drop-off time.

A member of our clinical team will discuss your pet’s visit, confirm some information with you, and obtain any necessary consent forms. You can speed up your arrival by reviewing our consent form before your visit. We will have you sign this form when you arrive. We will take your pet to the back where they will wait for their exam.

Your pet will typically stay with us for around three hours. You can leave and return for pickup at your scheduled time or as late as 5 pm. This drop-off process allows us to serve the maximum number of patients each day and ensure that they are prioritized according to their medical needs.

We understand that many owners are used to accompanying their pets to the exam room where their vet does the examination or treatment. However, we have designed our treatment areas to provide the fastest possible flow of patients through our imaging services. This means we don’t have the dedicated exam rooms seen in other vet clinics, and we can’t allow owners to accompany their pets to the treatment areas. Please note that for all standard appointments, your pet will need to be dropped off for about three hours to have the necessary time to complete the scan.

What if I have a STAT appointment?

If your pet is scheduled for a STAT appointment, you will receive more tailored drop-off and pickup instructions, but you should still expect a STAT appointment to take 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

What can I expect when I pick up my pet?

You can read the details here or watch this comprehensive video. CLICK HERE: What to expect.

Our reception team will greet you when you arrive at your assigned pick-up time. A member of our clinical team will discuss your pet’s case and our findings. Our reception team will collect payment from you by credit, debit card, or Care Credit.

We do not accept cash or checks.

If you are seeking reimbursement from your pet insurance company, we will provide you an itemized receipt upon request that you can submit to them.

What should I do after my pet’s visit?

If our findings show something needing urgent care, our radiologist will immediately call your veterinarian and any involved specialists to discuss treatment recommendations. They will also receive our formal radiology report within 24 hours. The radiology report will be available to you through your veterinarian.

Otherwise, the images from your pet’s exam are available to your veterinarian at their request. Your vet will help you plan the next treatment steps, including any surgical options or referrals to other specialists. If ER services are recommended after the ultrasound, and your veterinarian cannot facilitate a transfer, we will provide you with contact information for the closest ER facility.

MRI FAQ

What is MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and computer-generated radio waves (instead of radiation!) to create detailed images of the organs and tissues in your body. Most MRI machines are large, tube-shaped magnets. While lying inside an MRI, the magnetic field temporarily realigns water molecules in the body. Radio waves cause these aligned atoms to produce faint signals, which are used to create cross-sectional MRI images — like slices in a loaf of bread.

The MRI machine can also produce 3D images that can be viewed from different angles. MRI’s main advantage is a detailed evaluation of soft tissue structures that are less easily evaluated on radiographs or CT. This is especially useful for the evaluation of muscle, tendons, and ligaments, as well as the eyes, brain, and spinal cord.

What can the doctor see during an MRI scan?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a large magnet and radio waves to look at organs and structures inside your body. Healthcare professionals use MRI scans to diagnose various conditions, from torn ligaments to tumors. MRIs are especially useful at identifying more subtle or chronic musculoskeletal injuries (such as injured knees or torn muscles) that may not show up on other imaging modalities.

MRI is especially useful for evaluating the nervous system (brain and spine) because it gives the most detail about the anatomical structure of the brain, spine, spinal nerves, and intervertebral disks. This detailed evaluation of these structures is incredibly useful when managing chronic conditions such as seizures, pain, weakness, and other more nebulous symptoms. Specific malformations identified during MRI may also influence breeding programs when identified soon enough.

What happens during an MRI scan?

MRI takes 30 minutes to 1.5 hours to complete depending on the complexity of the disease being evaluated. For this reason, patients must undergo full generalized anesthesia to stay completely still during the process. Patients will stay with us during the day, have an IV catheter placed, have an anesthesia protocol tailored to their needs, and undergo MRI with close anesthetic monitoring while in the MRI by one of our licensed veterinary technicians. They will then be returned to their family once they have had time to fully recover. 

Will my pet be anxious without me?

While your pet is under our care, they will be given a personalized dose of anti-anxiety and sedation medication before the procedure, and then the pet will be under full anesthesia during the MRI scan. Most patients do very well during the day and will be returned to you as soon as they are fully awake and can regulate their own body temperature. 

When will I know the results of the scan?

Normally results are given to owners at pickup time, and to their primary veterinary hospitals within 24 hours of the scan. Our radiologist will examine all of the images and type up a report that will be emailed to the primary veterinarian. A copy can be sent to the owner upon request.

If my pet needs to see a neurologist or surgeon, what happens next?

If a patient is consulting with a neurologist or surgeon that day, then our results can be delivered same-day, with the report following within 24 hours, in addition to immediate recommendations for treatment and expected outcome. A STAT fee may be charged if you need our radiologist to immediately speak with other specialists about our imaging findings.

Why does my pet need an MRI?

Here are some common reasons we see patients coming to us for an MRI:             

Unusual changes in behavior like circling, persistent head tilt, or depression, pre-surgical check for metastatic disease, defining the margins of a tumor, lameness of shoulder or knee, cancer surgery planning, chronic nasal discharge, unsteady gait, seizures, foot dragging, back pain, oral tumors

How much does a veterinary MRI cost?

When comparing MRI prices, you’ll find that our rates are competitively positioned within the mid-range. However, what truly sets us apart is our superior 3 Tesla MRI technology—the same high-resolution imaging used in advanced human outpatient centers. Unlike “low-field” or veterinary-specific MRIs, our state-of-the-art equipment provides exceptional detail, ensuring faster, more accurate diagnoses the first time. This precision helps you avoid the added costs of unnecessary repeat imaging, additional tests, or exploratory surgery—ultimately saving you both time and money while prioritizing your pet’s health.

CT or “cat scans” are less expensive. Should we do a CT instead of an MRI?

CT and MRI are used for two very different purposes. CT is better for imaging bone structures, while MRI is superior for evaluating brain or spinal abnormalities, cancer staging, soft tissue imaging of muscle, and locating the cause of certain orthopedic diseases. Read more about the differences between CT and MRI here.

Some facilities only have a CT, so understandably that becomes their main diagnostic tool, even though in many cases, an MRI would give a significantly clearer diagnostic result.

Is MRI safe for my pet?

MRI scanners have been safely used in animals and people for decades. MRI uses strong magnetic fields to form images and does not involve X-rays or the use of ionizing radiation, which distinguishes it from radiographs, CT, and PET scans. Magnetic fields can interrupt the function of pacemakers but are otherwise harmless.

Why is anesthesia required for veterinary MRI?

Anesthesia is usually necessary for MRI procedures, as the patient must stay perfectly still for several minutes to acquire a good-quality scan. The risks of anesthesia are generally low but vary with the age and individual medical state of the patient. We minimize anesthesia risks by choosing the safest methods possible and providing state-of-the-art anesthesia and monitoring equipment monitored by experienced personnel. In addition, all of our MRI-safe anesthesia protocols and procedures are designed by a team of board certified anesthesiologists with deep experience in imaging, and our tech team follows those protocols exactly, without deviation.

CT FAQ

What is a CT scan for pets?

The term “computed tomography,” or CT, refers to a computerized X-ray imaging procedure in which a narrow beam of X-rays is aimed at a patient and quickly rotated around the body, producing signals that are processed by the machine’s computer to generate cross-sectional images, or “slices.” These slices are called tomographic images and can give a clinician more detailed information than conventional X-rays. Read more here.

Once several successive slices are collected by the machine’s computer, they can be digitally “stacked” together to form a three-dimensional (3D) image of the patient that allows for easier identification and more detailed evaluation of basic structures as well as possible tumors, disease, or other abnormalities.

Why would my pet need a CT scan?

Common findings among our patients needing a CT scan are:

• Orthopedic conditions, such as joint degeneration

• Dental diseases, such as abscesses

• Brain or spinal conditions

• Middle and inner ear disorders

• Hip and elbow dysplasia

• Head trauma

• Lung diseases

• Tumors

More health concerns could make a CT scan necessary, and ultimately, your vet will know the next best steps after your initial visit.

What happens during a CT scan?

Your pet will be dropped off and spends several hours with us. Depending on the nature of the scan, patients are either sedated or (occasionally) undergo full generalized anesthesia so that they are ultimately still for the scan. They are then positioned on the CT, and the area of interest is scanned.

Due to the advanced nature of our 128-slice CT scanner, scans finish quickly - in a matter of seconds! In fact, the majority of the time is spent preparing your pet for imaging and comfortably waiting their turn in our quiet, comfortable kennel rooms. 

Because of the speed of our CT scanner, many pets don’t need anesthesia, but this is dependent on the type of imaging required and is determined by our doctors during the scheduling process. You will know ahead of time whether anesthesia is required and will be asked to sign an anesthesia consent form if necessary.

Do CT scans hurt dogs?

Because CT scans are like an x-ray, some people wonder if a CT scan will harm their pet. But no need to worry! CT scans are completely safe and pose no harm to animals (or humans for that matter). It’s well known there are no documented side effects of a CT scan for dogs or cats. For three decades, veterinary medicine has used CT technology to find underlying causes of pain in animals.

What can the doctor see during a CT scan?

• Muscle and bone disorders, such as bone tumors and fractures that are not readily apparent on radiographs (x-rays)

• Certain neurological diseases and malformations, such as calcified disks, malformations of the spine, and infections of the bones and discs of the spine

• Pinpoint the presence and/or location of a tumor, infection, or blood clot

• Guide procedures such as surgery, biopsy, and radiation therapy, as well as more advanced techniques such as 3D printing

• Detect and monitor the progression of diseases and conditions such as cancer, heart disease, lung disease, and liver masses

• Monitor the effectiveness of certain treatments, such as cancer treatment

• Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding

When will I know the results of the scan?

Normally results are given to owners at pickup time, and to their primary veterinary hospitals within 24 hours of the scan. Our radiologist will examine all of the images and type up a report that will be emailed to the primary veterinarian. A copy can be sent to the owner upon request.

Is anesthesia required for the CT scan?

With the advancement of high-speed imaging, such as with a 128-slice CT scanner, many CT scans can now be performed with sedation alone rather than requiring general anesthesia.

• CT Scans That Typically Require Only Sedation:
  

• Thoracic and abdominal CT scans, as they can be completed in seconds, minimizing motion artifacts.

• Orthopedic CT studies, depending on patient compliance and positioning needs.

• Head and neck CT scans in calm patients who can tolerate brief restraint.

• CT Scans That Typically Require General Anesthesia:
  

• Complex musculoskeletal or dental CT scans, where precise positioning is necessary for optimal imaging.

• CT scans requiring contrast administration, especially for vascular studies or detailed lesion characterization, as prolonged stillness is essential.

• Patients who are highly anxious, painful, or unable to remain still with sedation alone may also require anesthesia for accurate imaging.

Our veterinary team will assess each patient individually to determine the safest and most effective sedation or anesthesia protocol for their specific CT imaging needs. We minimize anesthesia risks by choosing the safest methods possible and providing state-of-the-art anesthesia and monitoring equipment monitored by experienced personnel. In addition, all of our MRI-safe anesthesia protocols and procedures are designed by a team of board certified anesthesiologists with deep experience in imaging, and our tech team follows those protocols exactly, without deviation.

Ultrasound

What is ultrasound for pets?

An ultrasound machine allows us to “see’’ internal organs in a non-painful and often relaxing manner. The machine sends sound waves into the body through a probe and then listens for the echoes to create an image of internal organs. The sound waves are too high frequency to hear, and there are no harmful side effects for your pet (or human babies!). The images produced allow us to evaluate structural changes in the gallbladder, liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands, gastrointestinal tract, urinary bladder, lymph nodes, and much more. We can also do an ultrasound of the heart and thyroid glands.

Why does my pet need an ultrasound?

Veterinarians often use ultrasound to guide a small needle to diseased tissue areas for biopsy. Abdominal ultrasound imaging is performed to evaluate the:

• kidneys

• liver

• gallbladder

• pancreas

• spleen

• blood vessels in the abdomen

How much does an ultrasound cost?

Cost varies depending on what type of ultrasound imaging is done and whether biopsies are needed. In addition to the ultrasound, you may be referred to us for:

• FNA - Fine Needle Aspirate

• CSF Tap

• Joint Tap

• Cytology

After discussing your case with you and/or your veterinarian, we can fully summarize the costs.

Should we get X-rays instead of an ultrasound?

These two imaging methods are often used in conjunction with each other, so a patient may first receive an X-ray study at their primary vet’s office, then be recommended to come to us for additional imaging with ultrasound. X-rays (aka radiographs) are often used as a screening tool for abdominal disease, but ultrasound allows us to look closely at a disease in individual organs.

Is ultrasound safe for my pet?

An ultrasound examination, also known as “ultrasonography”, is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows internal body structures to be seen by recording echoes or reflections of ultrasonic waves. Unlike potentially dangerous X-rays, ultrasound waves are considered to be safe.

Ultrasound equipment directs a narrow beam of high-frequency sound waves into the area of interest. The sound waves may be transmitted through, reflected, or absorbed by the tissues that they encounter.

The reflected ultrasound waves will return as "echoes" to the probe and are converted into an image displayed on the monitor, giving a 2-dimensional "picture" of the tissues under examination.

Why is sedation required for an ultrasound?

Anesthesia is not usually needed for most ultrasound examinations unless biopsies are to be taken. The technique is totally painless, and most dogs will lie comfortably while the scan is being performed. Occasionally, a sedative may be necessary if your dog is very frightened.

What should I expect if my pet has an ultrasound?

This is a non-painful and often relaxing procedure for your pet! After shaving your pet's belly and applying a soothing gel, the doctor gently moves the ultrasound probe over the belly to obtain an image of each internal organ.  

What happens during the exam process?

Drop-off appointments and scheduling allow us to adapt to each patient’s individual needs.  An ultrasound is performed on a padded table while your pet lies quietly on their back with dimmed lights. A gel, warmed to body temperature, is applied to the examined area, and the ultrasound probe is gently moved along your pet’s skin. 

Most pets will relax enough to enjoy the undivided attention of the veterinary nurse holding them, some will even take a little nap. While most pets do very well, the new environment is scary to a small percentage of pets and those requiring sedation (medication given to produce a calm or light sleep) to obtain high-quality images.  If the veterinary team determines your pet would benefit from sedation, a doctor or nurse will call you directly for approval.

Will my pet be anxious without me?

The majority of pets do great for their ultrasound, however, if you are concerned about your pet’s stress level, please ask your primary care veterinarian to prescribe trazodone (for dogs) or gabapentin (for cats) to be given two hours before your scheduled drop off time.  These anti-anxiety medications can be given safely to lessen your pet’s anxiety.

When will I know the results of the examination?

Normally results are given to owners at pickup time, and to their primary veterinary hospitals within 24 hours of the scan. Our radiologist will examine all of the images and type up a report that will be emailed to the primary veterinarian. A copy can be sent to the owner upon request.

Will my dog need anesthesia?

Full general anesthesia is not needed for ultrasound examinations. The ultrasound is a painless procedure, and most dogs will lie comfortably while the scan is being performed.  Rarely if a pet is very frightened or aggressive, sedation (medication to produce a state of calm or light sleep) may be necessary.  A doctor or nurse will contact you directly if they feel your pet would benefit from this. 

If your pet receives sedation or additional tests, you will be given special instructions during discharge.

Will my pet get a biopsy?

An ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA or fine needle biopsy) uses a small needle to obtain cells from an abnormal organ or mass. The cells are placed on a slide and then sent digitally to a cytopathologist for expert review. This procedure is typically painless, and 90% of patients needing this procedure do not require sedation.

If sedation is needed, it is usually because the pet is too wiggly or if the underlying issue is already causing the pet pain (such as a mass in the abdomen).  While the doctor can see a structural abnormality within an organ on ultrasound, a biopsy is often needed to make a diagnosis or rule out conditions such as cancer.

A needle biopsy is less invasive than laparoscopic or surgical biopsies which involve an incision in the skin and general anesthesia.  Fine needle aspiration is generally considered a safe procedure and complications, such as bleeding, are rare.  Results from this procedure are typically available on the same day.

Radiograph (X-ray) FAQ

What is a radiograph, and why does my pet need one?

A radiograph, commonly known as an X-ray, uses a short burst of X-rays to create an image of your pet's internal structures. Veterinarians use radiographs to diagnose conditions such as pneumonia, heart failure, fractures, and tumors.

Is the radiation from X-rays safe for my pet?

Yes, the amount of radiation used in veterinary X-rays is very low and considered safe. The benefits of diagnosing potential health issues outweigh the minimal risks associated with radiation exposure.

Will my pet need sedation or anesthesia for an X-ray?

Many X-rays can be performed with gentle restraint. However, if your pet is anxious or if precise positioning is required, sedation may be necessary to obtain clear images.

Can I stay with my pet during the X-ray procedure?

Due to radiation safety regulations, pet owners are not allowed in the examination area during the X-ray. This ensures safety for both you and the veterinary staff.

How should I prepare my pet for an X-ray?

Generally, it's best not to feed your pet the morning of the examination. However, consult your veterinarian for specific instructions, especially if your pet has medical conditions that require regular feeding.

Biopsy FAQ

What is a biopsy, and why is it recommended for my pet?

A biopsy involves collecting a small tissue sample from your pet to examine it for diseases like cancer or infections. It's recommended when a definitive diagnosis cannot be made through non-invasive tests.

How is a biopsy performed on my pet?

The procedure varies depending on the tissue location. It may involve using a needle to extract a sample or surgically removing a small tissue section. Sedation is typically used to ensure your pet's comfort.

Are there risks associated with biopsies?

As with any medical procedure, there are minimal risks, including infection or bleeding at the biopsy site. However, veterinarians take precautions to minimize these risks, and complications are uncommon.

How should I care for my pet after a biopsy?

You will receive detailed post-procedure instructions, which include keeping the biopsy site clean, monitoring for signs of infection, and limiting your pet's activity during the healing process.

When will I receive the biopsy results?

Biopsy results are typically available the same day of your visit, depending on the complexity of the analysis. Our team will discuss the findings with you once they are available.

Cytology FAQ

What is cytology, and why does my pet need this test?

Cytology is the examination of cells under a microscope to diagnose conditions like infections, inflammations, or tumors. It's often used when a mass, lesion, or abnormal fluid accumulation is present.

How is a cytology sample collected from my pet?

Samples are usually obtained through fine needle aspiration, where a thin needle collects cells from a mass or fluid. Alternatively, impression smears from tissue surfaces or fluid samples can be used.

Is cytology painful for my pet?

Cytology procedures are minimally invasive and typically cause little to no discomfort. Most pets tolerate them well, and sedation is rarely needed.

How quickly will I receive cytology results?

Cytology results are typically available within hours of your arrival at SVI, allowing for prompt diagnosis and treatment planning. In some cases, specialized testing may require more time if the sample must be mailed to an outside laboratory.

Are there any risks associated with cytology?

Cytology is generally safe. Rarely, minor complications like slight bleeding or infection at the sample site can occur, but these are uncommon.

These FAQs provide general information. For concerns specific to your pet's health, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.

Payment FAQ

What forms of payment do you take?

Please bring a credit or debit card with you to your appointment as we will collect payment when you arrive. We do not accept cash or check, but we do accept Care Credit, and we are happy to provide a detailed receipt for you to submit to your pet insurance provider. We do work directly with Trupanion and can run your application through our system. If approved, you will only pay a deposit and Trupanion will send us a check for the balance. 

How do I apply for Care Credit?

We are a Care Credit provider, and you can apply for our services using this form. Please complete the approval process and bring your temporary, printed card with you to the appointment.

Do you work with pet insurance?

For most pet insurance providers, we do require a debit or credit card payment in full before beginning the services. We’ll give you a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurer, and then you work with them to set up a payment plan. As imaging for animals is becoming more common, we see many insurers reimbursing for our services. If you have Trupanion insurance, we can apply for pre-approval, and then you will only be required to pay the deposit on the day of your appointment.

Do you offer payment plans?

At this time we don’t offer payment plans. Our recommendation is to use pet insurance or apply for Care Credit to get a monthly payment system set up.