As every pet owner knows, pets may become sick, develop health conditions or become pregnant over time. To help your furry friend, University Animal Clinic has veterinarians with ultrasound experience. Before your appointment, here’s what you should know:

What Are Ultrasounds?
An ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive procedure that scans your pet using high-frequency waves. These waves reflect into the hand-held probe against your pet’s skin, and the pattern of the reflected waves is what creates the live image you will see on the screen.
When Should I Get an Ultrasound for My Pet?
Thankfully, ultrasounds are an easy way for veterinarians to examine your pet quickly. Other instances when your pet may need an ultrasound include:
- Looking closer at a specific organ or soft tissue (thyroid, tendons, ligaments, eyes, fetal viability and development).
- Supplementing inconclusive results from x-rays, bloodwork or urine tests.
- Monitoring the progression of diseases or abnormalities.
How to Prepare Your Pet for an Ultrasound
The preparations required before an ultrasound may vary depending on the area examined. Speak to your ultrasound vet before your appointment to learn more about the specifics. Some precautions you may need to take beforehand include:
- Withholding food and water eight to 12 hours before the ultrasound.
- Shaving the examination area.
- Giving your pet a sedative to relax them.
The Benefits of Using Ultrasounds
One of the biggest benefits of ultrasounds is the turnaround time to see results. Your vet will get back to you within a few short days with any issues detected. This noninvasive procedure is painless and, if your pet is typically calm at the vet, won’t require anesthesia.


What Can Ultrasounds Show?
Ultrasounds are a great resource for veterinarians to examine your pet. Ultrasounds will show areas such as:
- A complete view of your pet’s internal organs.
- Any noteworthy bumps found on your pet.
- Fetal development if your pet is pregnant.
What Types of Pets Can Receive an Ultrasound?
Pets of all shapes and sizes are eligible for an ultrasound. Traditional pets such as cats and dogs and exotic pets such as turtles and ferrets can all benefit from an ultrasound.
Schedule an Ultrasound Appointment for Your Pet at University Animal Clinic
If your pet needs an ultrasound, you can schedule an appointment with Bradenton’s University Animal Clinic today by completing our online booking sheet, or you can ask questions by filling out our online contact form. We would love to help your pet be healthy and safe so you can enjoy their company for a long time. Learn more about our AAHA-Accredited clinic!

Contact us today to learn more, or request a Laser Therapy appointment online.
Request an AppointmentThe very best of care, the entire staff always gives their all and truly cares about both patient and parents! You won’t find a better clinic in Sarasota.
It is very difficult to find an avian vet who is kind while not sugar coating what can be bad news. I had no idea conures get cataracts as they get older, helped me understand my bird’s actions. The Dr. is wonderful!
Most caring and helpful Vet ever . The staff are amazing and are so wonderful with all pets . They take amazing care of my two fur babies . I wouldn’t trust my two pups with anyone else . You can really tell how much the love animals . Do your pets the biggest favor and take them to this vet clinic .
Incredibly grateful to the staff of University Animal Clinic. We have been a customer for over 20 years. They were able to take care of our dog Duke today for an unscheduled appointment for UTI. Couldn’t imagine going to anybody else.
Awesome reptile vet! I thought there was a problem with my bearded dragon so I made an app to bring him in. Dr. Sara was knowledgeable, professional, and down to earth. UAC is clean and doesn’t smell like urine whatsoever. I love coming here and will continue to bring my pets here. I highly recommend this vet. A+ service. Thanks!!!
Dr Sam and staff are friendly, knowledgeable and truly care about your pets health and happiness! We wouldn’t trust our babies with any one else.
I took my galah Rosie for a general physical. The staff and vet took the time to show me (as a new bird owner) how to clip nails and wings and what to look for as far as outward signs of her health. Can’t say enough good things about this clinic and would recommend them without any hesitation!
Thank you to Doctor Simonson, Casey, Dr. Sam and the rest of the team for taking care of Wrangler! You all treated him like a pet of your own and made me feel so comfortable leaving him with you to watch over after such a scary incident. Everyone at your office is so knowledgeable and caring. Wrangler is feeling so much better and back to normal. Thank you for all your help, you have an amazing team.
Vets and staff are knowledgeable and efficient. Clean and friendly Vet office. My dog now goes in to see her Vet with out balking.
My dogs, Max and Leo, always have a very positive experience at UAC. The staff is friendly and professional. The office is efficient and clean. I appreciate the ability to check on the dogs’ vaccinations, etc., on the pet portal. Great vet practice.
We’ve always had a great experience at University Animal Clinic. The doctors and team are all very knowledgeable and friendly. They get back to you in a timely manner and work with you when it comes to scheduling appointments. They even follow up with you after your visit to make sure that your pet is ok. The office is always clean and they are AAHA accredited. Your pets are in great hands here.
Dr Sam was very sweet, knowledgable and took the time to explain everything to me. The nurses and front desk staff were wonderful.
Very nice and welcoming entree, king and professional vet and nurse. Thank you very much, I will come back and be happy to recommend you