Advanced Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging and In-House Laboratory Testing in Petaluma, CA
Accurate diagnosis is essential to effective emergency and specialty care. At TruVet Specialty & Emergency Hospital, our advanced diagnostic imaging and in-house laboratory services allow us to evaluate complex conditions efficiently and with precision. Each diagnostic plan is tailored to the individual patient, to guide timely, informed medical decisions.
Advanced Diagnostic Imaging
Our hospital is equipped with sophisticated digital diagnostic technology that enables detailed evaluation of internal structures, organ function, and disease processes. These tools are central to diagnosing acute illness, trauma, and chronic conditions.
Digital Imaging
Digital diagnostic imaging allows our team to assess internal structures quickly and accurately. By using advanced imaging tools, we can identify abnormalities and determine the most appropriate course of care without unnecessary delay. Diagnostic recommendations are made based on each patient's clinical presentation and medical needs.
Most digital imaging procedures are completed quickly, and sedation is only used when necessary to ensure accurate positioning and patient comfort.
Digital Radiography (X-Rays)
Digital radiography uses X-ray beams passed through the body to create detailed black-and-white images of internal structures. Multiple views may be obtained from different angles to improve diagnostic interpretation. Radiographs are commonly used to evaluate bones, lungs, abdominal organs, and soft tissues for injury, disease, or structural abnormalities.
X-rays are typically completed within minutes and are painless, though brief, gentle restraint or light sedation may be used to obtain clear images.
Ultrasonography
Ultrasound uses sound waves to generate real-time images of organs and internal structures. This is used to assess organ size and appearance, detect masses or fluid, and evaluate soft tissues without the need for anesthesia. Ultrasound can also be used to guide needle aspirates or biopsy procedures when tissue sampling is required.
Ultrasound examinations are non-invasive, generally well tolerated, and usually performed without sedation, allowing pets to remain awake and comfortable throughout the procedure.
Computed Tomography (CT)
Computed tomography (CT) combines X-ray technology with advanced computer processing to create highly detailed, cross-sectional images of the body. CT imaging provides significantly more detail than standard radiographs and is used to evaluate complex anatomy, including bones, muscles, organs, blood vessels, and soft tissues. CT scans play a critical role in diagnosing conditions that may not be fully visible with traditional imaging.
CT scans require brief anesthesia to keep patients completely still during imaging and are typically completed within a short period, with close monitoring before and after the procedure.
Echocardiography
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to produce moving images of the heart, allowing detailed evaluation of cardiac structure and function. Echocardiograms are commonly used to diagnose conditions such as heart failure, cardiomyopathy, congenital heart defects, and valvular disease.
Echocardiography provides critical insights into:
- Heart function — evaluating pumping strength and motion
- Cardiac structure — assessing chamber size, wall thickness, and vessel anatomy
- Heart valves — identifying narrowing (stenosis) or leakage (regurgitation)
- Blood flow — visualizing circulation through the heart and major vessels
Examinations typically last 30–60 minutes and are non-invasive, do not require sedation in most cases, and are well tolerated by patients.
In-House Laboratory Services
To complement advanced imaging, TruVet maintains a fully equipped in-house veterinary laboratory. On-site testing allows for faster result turnaround and supports timely clinical decision-making, particularly for emergency and critical care patients.
Our laboratory services include:
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Complete blood counts (CBC)
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Chemistry panels and electrolyte testing
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Cytology and microscopic evaluation
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Coagulation testing
Having laboratory diagnostics available on site enables our clinicians to rapidly assess organ function, identify infection or inflammation, and monitor disease progression or response to treatment.
Integrated Diagnostic Capability
By combining advanced diagnostic imaging with in-house laboratory testing, our veterinary team gains a comprehensive understanding of each patient's condition. This integrated approach supports accurate diagnosis, informed treatment planning, and effective collaboration with referring veterinarians.