VETERINARY RADIOLOGY SERVICES

Q: What are digital X-rays used for in veterinary care?

Digital X-rays allow veterinarians to quickly evaluate bones, joints, the chest, abdomen, and other internal structures. They are commonly used to diagnose fractures, detect swallowed objects, identify lung or heart conditions, and assess abdominal concerns.

Q: Will I be able to see the X-ray images during my visit?

Yes. Digital imaging provides instant results, allowing veterinarians to show the images during your appointment and discuss the next steps in your pet’s care.

Q: What conditions can be diagnosed using digital X-rays?

Digital X-rays can diagnose broken bones, joint issues such as arthritis or hip dysplasia, tumors or masses, foreign objects, pneumonia, respiratory issues, heart enlargement, and various abdominal abnormalities.

Q: Do you offer advanced imaging like ultrasound or CT scans?

The clinic offers on-site digital X-rays for fast diagnostics. If a pet requires ultrasound, CT, MRI, or other specialty imaging, the veterinary team may refer you to a local specialty or emergency hospital.

Q: Are digital X-rays included in a routine exam?

No. X-rays are not part of a routine wellness exam. They are performed when medically necessary, such as when a pet is limping, coughing, injured, or showing unexplained symptoms.

Q: How much do veterinary X-rays cost?

The cost of digital X-rays depends on the area being imaged and whether sedation is required. The clinic provides a detailed estimate before proceeding.

Imaging technology, such as digital x-rays and ultrasounds, has an essential role in keeping your furry friend healthy. You know your pet the best. If you have noticed your dog or cat acting unusually, it can be hard to diagnose them without seeing what is happening internally. That is where veterinary radiology services come into play. Digital radiology technology is a crucial resource that ensures your pet is healthy.

As a family-owned veterinary clinic in Colorado Springs, we understand how important it is to be sure our family members, including our pets, are well taken care of. At Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic, we use the highest quality imaging technology to have a complete understanding of your pet’s health. If your dog or cat is ill, injured, or just needs preventative care, veterinary radiology services will work to keep your furry friend in good health.

WHAT IS VETERINARY RADIOLOGY?

Digital x-rays and ultrasounds provide an incredibly accurate, high-resolution, and non-invasive snapshot of your pet’s internal structure. Veterinary radiology services allow the specialized team at Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic to provide diagnostic care for your pet. With the help of this technology, our staff can utilize their expertise to provide a diagnosis quickly and accurately, which allows us to begin a treatment plan. The goal of veterinary radiology is to have a complete understanding of your pet’s health so we can give your cat or dog the best care possible.

WHY WOULD YOUR PET NEED VETERINARY RADIOLOGY SERVICES?

Imaging technology is a vital tool that allows us to see inside your pet’s body. There are many reasons why your veterinarian would want to take a digital x-ray or ultrasound of your cat or dog. For example, imaging technology helps the expert team at Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic to assess your pet’s health, diagnose your pet, and check the internal system of your pet.

WHAT DO DIGITAL X-RAYS SHOW FOR PETS?

Veterinary radiology allows staff to see high-resolution images of the inside of your pet. This is helpful when accessing your pet’s health to ensure they are in great shape. Digital x-rays can show the following:

WHAT CAN DIGITAL X-RAYS DIAGNOSE?

Digital x-rays also work to properly diagnose your furry friend. It can be difficult to fully understand your pet’s health without a clear understanding of their internal state. Imaging technology helps our veterinarians to diagnose the following:

Broken bones
Chronic arthritis
Spinal cord diseases
Tumors
Lung abnormalities
Bladder and kidney stones
Organ integrity
Suspected heart or lung disease
Presence of air in chest cavity
Orthopedic disorders

THE IMPORTANCE OF VETERINARY RADIOLOGY SERVICES

At Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic, our veterinary staff uses the highest quality imaging technology and techniques to care for your pet. Our imaging services allow for a more accurate, precise, and detailed diagnosis for your pet. At Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic, we can utilize digital x-rays, ultrasounds, and other internal imaging technology for preventative care, injury diagnosis, and confirmation of illnesses.

HEAR FROM OUR CLIENTS

“We are a multiple dog household so having a clinic we can trust to provide the best possible care at affordable cost is very important. They have successfully treated our pug for digestive issues, and continue to provide well care for all our dogs. My daughter loves this clinic so much she drives from Oregon to bring her dog in for his health needs. I strongly recommend Ponderosa clinic!”

“They are fabulous! Their bedside manner to both the animals and their owners are like the old days when people cared about what they did. I drive from Boulder to still take my Navi there. I wouldn't go anywhere else!”

“Ponderosa is hands down one of the best veterinarian clinics I've ever dealt with. I already have referred two families there, that in turn...LOVE Ponderosa and would say the same thing as myself. I will continue to direct others their way as long as service remains the same standard. 5 star service from arriving to leaving.”

“I LOVE Ponderosa and everyone there. They have been great with my dog, Lily and my cat, Leo. They are kind, caring, knowledgeable, respectful and trustworthy. They are cost friendly too. They are up front and honest about their diagnosis. They don't gouge you or find things "wrong" with your pet just to add on charges. I am so thankful I found them. You won't regret coming here.”

“Fantastic vet. We've brought our fur babies here for years and years and we've always received exceptional service. Affordable and individualized care. They actually know their patients you're not just a number. 100% recommend.”

WHY PONDEROSA VETERINARY CLINIC?

Imaging technology, such as digital x-rays and ultrasounds, is incredibly important in maintaining the health of your pet. This safe, painless, and non-invasive option will allow you and your veterinarian to have a greater understanding of your pet’s wellness. At Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic, our veterinary staff will work with you to determine if radiology services are right for your furry friend. Our compassionate team is here to help your pet have the healthiest life possible. Our veterinary radiology services will work to ensure your pet is healthy. Please contact Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic if you have any questions about our imaging services, or if you would like to discuss this option for your pet!

VETERINARY RADIOLOGY SERVICES Frequently Asked Questions

What are digital X-rays used for in veterinary care?

Digital X-rays allow our veterinarians to quickly evaluate bones, joints, the chest, abdomen, and other internal structures. They are commonly used to diagnose fractures, detect swallowed objects, identify lung or heart conditions, and assess abdominal concerns.

Are digital X-rays safe for my pet?

Yes. Digital radiology uses lower radiation levels than traditional X-rays, making the process extremely safe. We take careful measures to protect both your pet and our staff during every procedure.

Do pets need sedation for X-rays?

Not always. Many pets can remain still long enough for clear images. However, sedation may be recommended if:

Your pet is anxious or in pain
The X-ray requires precise positioning
The exam involves the spine or hips
Sedation ensures accurate imaging and keeps your pet comfortable.

How long does a digital X-ray take?

Most X-rays take only a few minutes to capture. If sedation is required, the appointment may take a bit longer to allow time for preparation and recovery.

Will I be able to see the X-ray images during my visit?

Yes. Digital imaging provides instant results, allowing our veterinarians to show you the images during your appointment and discuss the next steps in your pet’s care.

What conditions can be diagnosed using digital X-rays?

Digital X-rays can help identify:

Broken bones or fractures
Joint issues, such as arthritis or hip dysplasia
Tumors or abnormal masses
Foreign objects
Pneumonia or respiratory issues
Heart enlargement
Abdominal abnormalities
They are often the first diagnostic tool used when symptoms are unclear.

Do you offer advanced imaging like ultrasound or CT scans?

We offer on-site digital X-rays for fast diagnostics. If your pet requires ultrasound, CT, MRI, or specialty imaging, we may refer you to a local specialty or emergency hospital for advanced diagnostics.

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

Most pets do not require special preparation. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend withholding food before the appointment if sedation is likely. If any preparation is needed, we will inform you when scheduling.

Are digital X-rays included in a routine exam?

X-rays are not part of a routine wellness exam. They are performed when medically necessary—for example, if your pet is limping, coughing, injured, or showing unexplained symptoms.

How much do veterinary X-rays cost?

Costs depend on the area being imaged and whether sedation is needed. We provide a detailed estimate before proceeding so you know exactly what to expect.