Imaging provides important clues about what is going on inside of the pet’s body. Armed with this crucial information, our radiologists work with the emergency and specialty veterinarians to help determine the best diagnostics and treatment plan for your pets. This collaborative approach promotes teamwork, efficiency, and thoroughness on your pet’s care.
What is a DACVR?
ACVR board-certified Radiologists (ACVR Diplomate) have the highest level of skill in interpreting all types of imaging including radiographs (x-rays), ultrasound, fluoroscopy, CT, nuclear medicine, and MRI. In addition to determining what is abnormal on the images, our radiologists incorporate other information gathered from the patient’s history, physical exam and bloodwork in order to determine what are the most likely diagnoses and the best course of action for the specific patient.
CVS Imaging Tools
California Veterinary Specialists provide our radiologists with the most advanced tools in the field that allow us to acquire high quality digital radiographic images, (including specific orthopedic radiographs for surgical planning, and contrast urinary and gastrointestinal imaging), and perform thoracic and abdominal ultrasounds, fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT), and MRI scans.
Our high-field 1.5 Tesla MRI unit, located at our Ontario hospital, is one of the most advanced units available to veterinary medicine and enables us to generate high-resolution imaging of the brain, spine, soft tissues and joints. Our Carlsbad hospital, with its digital subtraction capable fluoroscopy suite, is one of the few veterinary hospitals in the world equipped for vascular and other advanced interventional radiology (IR) procedures.
For access to the advanced imaging modality best for your pet, we provide transport services between our three hospital locations.
Our expertise combined with advancements in technology enable us to perform optimally, and the information provided by our radiologists is often integral for ideal patient management. At CVS, we pride ourselves on providing truly compassionate care, and imaging is no different. We keep our ultrasound rooms dark and quiet and provide gentle calm handling during the ultrasound exams to minimize patient anxiety.
What is a Veterinary Specialist?
A primary care veterinarian treats a broad variety of animals and conditions. Veterinary specialists, however, must complete an internship, a two to four-year specialized residency, publish a paper in a peer-reviewed journal, in addition to receiving their veterinary degree. Specialists must also undergo a series of rigorous examinations based on knowledge and skill in the given specialty.
My pets helped get me through veterinary school and residency and mean the world to me. I try to think what I would do for my own animals when discussing patient care.
Imaging Doctors
Being able to see inside the patient and gather additional information is fascinating and exciting. I also like the collaboration with other specialists. I feel part of a team, and I know the information I find will be put to good use for the benefit of our patients and their families.