Dog Ultrasound Cost and Procedure Guide

Average cost of dog ultrasound by state/district

Here's a breakdown of the average cost* of a dog ultrasound by all 50 states and the District of Columbia:⁴

How an Ultrasound for Dogs Works

Some veterinarians are trained in ultrasonography, but others may need to refer you to a specialist for the procedure or send the images to a specialist for review.¹

To prepare for your dog's ultrasound, your vet may ask you to withhold food and/or water for eight to 12 hours before the procedure. It's also important to let the veterinarian or specialist know about any medications your dog is taking, especially if they're not your regular vet. Certain medications can affect ultrasound results and/or interact with a sedative.²

Ultrasounds are non-invasive, but it's important for the handheld probe to make contact with skin, so your vet will likely shave the area of your dog that they're going to examine.¹

The results are typically available immediately unless further consultation with a veterinary radiologist is needed. If this is the case, it usually takes a few more days for the report to be finalized.¹

Ultrasounds vs. Other Diagnostic Tools for Dogs

Ultrasound equipment sends sound waves into the body, which reflect off tissue and result in a 2D sonogram (picture).¹ They also do not use any radiation, which is why they're safe for pregnant dogs as well.² However, they aren't effective for examining lungs or the skeletal system because the waves stop when they hit bones or pass through air with nothing to reflect off.¹

An ultrasound of the heart, often called an echocardiogram, shows the heart walls, chambers and valves.²

Depending on what your vet is trying to diagnose, they may recommend other imaging procedures, including:⁵

• X-ray. This is best for seeing major abnormalities, joint or bone injuries, dental issues or foreign objects. X-rays may require sedation and are limited to a 2D view.
• CT scan. This is best for examining bony and soft tissue structures in great detail. They are similar to X-rays but usually require anesthesia and offer a three-dimensional view.
• MRI. This is best for diagnosing injuries in the organs, tissues and ligaments. An MRI might require general anesthesia.

Whether your pup has swallowed a toy, is predisposed to certain diseases or may be pregnant, an ultrasound is a powerful, non-invasive diagnostic tool that can help your veterinarian better understand what's going on. If you notice anything abnormal about your dog's health or behavior, consult your veterinarian right away for an evaluation.

CareCredit Credit Card Financing for Dogs

Taking good care of your pet's well-being from nose to tail is essential. Make sure to stay up to date on their regular checkups at the vet to help keep your pet happy and healthy for a lifetime of love. You can use your CareCredit credit card for pet care throughout the year for routine veterinary services as well as emergencies and surgeries.** Use our Acceptance Locator to find a veterinarian near you that accepts CareCredit.

CareCredit is there for you and your pet every step of the way; continue your wellness journey by downloading the CareCredit Mobile App to manage your account, find a provider on the go and easily access the Well U blog for more great articles, podcasts and videos.

In addition to pet care, you can also use your CareCredit credit card for dentistry, cosmetic, vision, hearing, health systems, dermatology, pharmacy purchases, spa treatments and so much more within the CareCredit network. How will you invest in your health and wellness next?

Author Bio

Abbie Mood is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience. She has worked with clients of all sizes to create compelling content and has written for the American Kennel Club, Marriott Bonvoy, Women's Health Online, Headspace and more.