Veterinary Ultrasound and Specialist Referrals in Monona and Madison
Ultrasound lets our veterinarians see your pet’s internal organs in real time without surgery. At Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic, we offer in-house ultrasound imaging for dogs and cats in Monona and Madison and work closely with trusted specialists when your pet needs advanced cardiac imaging or specialty care.
What Ultrasound Can Show
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the liver, kidneys, bladder, spleen, intestines, heart, and other soft tissues. It often reveals problems that do not show up clearly on x-rays, such as masses, fluid buildup, bladder stones, and changes in organ structure. We commonly recommend ultrasound to investigate:
- Abnormal bloodwork from laboratory testing
- Ongoing vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss
- Changes in the kidneys from kidney disease
- Urinary problems and suspected bladder stones
- Abdominal masses or fluid
- Heart murmurs or suspected heart disease, including heart changes from hyperthyroidism or heartworm disease
In-House Ultrasound With Specialist Support
Several members of our veterinary team perform ultrasound exams in-house and consult with experienced specialists to ensure accurate interpretation. This collaborative approach gives you confidence in the results and helps us move quickly toward a treatment plan. The procedure is noninvasive, and most pets need only a small area of fur clipped. Our Fear Free team uses gentle positioning and, when helpful, light sedation to keep pets comfortable.
Cardiac Ultrasound and Specialty Referrals
For cardiac ultrasounds and more complex imaging cases, we work with Dr. Bortnowski, an internal medicine specialist who performs referral-based cardiac ultrasounds. We also partner with trusted regional specialists, including VCA, Madison Veterinary Specialists, and the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, when your pet needs advanced diagnostics, specialty surgery, oncology, or dental specialty care beyond our dental procedures. We coordinate the referral, share your pet’s records, and stay involved in their care.
Imaging as Part of Complete Care
Ultrasound works alongside our sick pet visits, digital x-rays, and bloodwork to give us a full picture of your pet’s health. Findings help guide treatment, which may include medications from our pharmacy or ongoing monitoring at your pet’s wellness exams. Ultrasound can also aid in managing chronic conditions like diabetes.
Veterinary Ultrasound FAQs
What is a veterinary ultrasound?
A veterinary ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images of your pet’s internal organs, helping us find problems that x-rays may miss.
Is ultrasound safe for my pet?
Yes. Ultrasound is noninvasive, uses no radiation, and is very safe for dogs and cats.
Does my pet need to be sedated for an ultrasound?
Many pets do not need sedation. Light sedation may be used for pets who are anxious or uncomfortable lying still.
Do I need to prepare my pet for an abdominal ultrasound?
We may ask you to withhold food for several hours before an abdominal ultrasound for clearer images. Our team will give you instructions.
Who performs cardiac ultrasounds?
Cardiac ultrasounds are performed by Dr. Bortnowski, an internal medicine specialist who sees referral cases.
Which specialists do you refer to?
We work with VCA, Madison Veterinary Specialists, and the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, among other trusted specialists.
Will my pet need fur shaved for an ultrasound?
A small area of fur is usually clipped so the ultrasound probe can make good contact with the skin.
Get a Clearer Picture of Your Pet’s Health
If your veterinarian has recommended an ultrasound or specialist referral, our team will guide you through every step. Call Four Lakes Veterinary Clinic at (608) 819-6750 in Monona and Madison.