RADFORD, Va., Oct. 30, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Advancements in digital technology are improving diagnostic services and health care, and Radford Animal Hospital is utilizing these tools to benefit pets seen at their veterinary practice. Digital radiology allows veterinarians to safely provide pet owners with a diagnosis on their pet’s condition in the fastest time possible.

Dr. Mark Newman of Radford Animal Hospital uses digital imaging machinery safely and in a non-invasive way to rapidly produce X-ray images of pets that may have problems in their organs or bones.

"Digital X-rays can be used to diagnose bladder stones, broken bones, chronic arthritis, dental problems, some spinal cord diseases and tumors," Dr. Newman says. "We are able to see the size, shape and position of organs, which is important when performing surgery," he adds.

Digital X-rays have a reputation for being fast, clear and efficient.

"Veterinarians can see digital X-rays within seconds after they are taken," Dr. Newman notes and explains that this makes it easier to take another image if adjustments, such as body positioning, are necessary.

Previous to digital technology, X-rays were processed as photographs -- a procedure that was messy, time consuming and often produced images that were less sharp than digital ones. It was frustrating for pet owners and veterinarians alike if retakes were necessary.

"More importantly," Dr. Newman says, "repeating the process delayed treatment."

Pet dental checkups at Radford Animal Hospital may also include digital X-rays. As with all pet radiology, sedation or anesthesia may be necessary. This is because it may be difficult for a pet to remain still during imaging, Dr. Newman explains, although oftentimes pets who are calm won’t require sedation.

In non-emergency situations, Dr. Mark Newman, dipl. A.B.V.P explains that it's standard for a veterinarian to discuss preparation for sedation and anesthesia with pet owners prior to an appointment. Vets should inform owners how to prepare pets beforehand -- such as restricting food and water -- and take care of them afterward.

In addition to X-rays, Radford Animal Hospital performs ultrasound imaging, which uses high frequency sound waves to generate pictures of the internal structure of organs and fluid build-up problems, such as inside the sac surrounding the heart.

Radford Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinary hospital that treats a wide range of pets from dogs and cats to rabbits, birds and pocket pets, including hamsters. Appointments and inquiries can be made by calling (540) 639-3891; with further details on the veterinary practice located on their website at http://radfordanimalhospital.com/.

Regular clinic hours are weekdays 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with an additional hour of care on Tuesday evenings, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition to Radford, the hospital serves Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Dublin and surrounding communities at 7367 Lee Highway in Radford, Virginia.

Radford Animal Hospital, (540) 639-3891

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