Mastering Ultrasound for Large Dogs: 4 Essential Tips

Struggling to ultrasound large dogs? Learn four essential tips from Dr. Fred Gromalak of SVS Imaging to improve your technique, from sedation to probe selection.

Mastering Ultrasound for Large Dogs: 4 Essential Tips

Performing an ultrasound on a large dog—especially those nearing 100 pounds—can be challenging. Their dense abdominal structures and large ribcages make visualization difficult, particularly in the cranial abdomen. To improve your scanning technique, Dr. Fred Gromalak of SVS Imaging shares four essential tips to help you get the best possible images.

1. Sedation is Key

While it may seem inconvenient, sedating the patient will allow better manipulation of the abdomen. Deep sedation helps reduce movement and resistance, allowing for clearer imaging.

2. Extend Fasting Time

Typically, fasting is recommended for at least 12 hours before an ultrasound. However, for large dogs—especially when scanning the cranial abdomen—fasting for up to 18 hours can improve visibility by reducing gas and stomach contents.

3. Use an Intercostal Approach

Don’t hesitate to scan between the ribs, particularly between rib spaces 12 and 13. This approach allows better visualization of the liver and pyloric outflow tract, which may be difficult to see with a traditional method.

4. Choose the Right Probe

If you have an echo probe, opt for a phased array probe. Its lower frequency provides deeper penetration, allowing you to see larger structures more clearly compared to a microconvex probe.

💡Bonus Tip: Scan on the Floor

Getting a large dog onto an exam table can be difficult. Instead, consider scanning on the floor to keep the patient comfortable and reduce stress for both you and the dog.

By following these tips, you’ll improve your efficiency and accuracy when scanning large canine patients. Happy scanning!

👉 Watch the video below:

Need Support? The SVS Imaging team offers mobile ultrasound services, ultrasound bootcamps, and virtual telemedicine consultations.

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