Pet X-Rays in Hershey, PA
At Hershey Veterinary Hospital, we provide advanced in-house digital X-ray services for dogs, cats, and other small pets in Hershey, PA. Whether your dog swallowed a foreign object, your cat needs an X-ray because they are limping, or your pet is experiencing unexplained symptoms, X-rays are a vital diagnostic tool that allow us to assess internal organs and other areas of the body quickly and effectively.
Our in-house ray technology and ray machines provide detailed images to detect conditions early, guide treatment, and improve outcomes. As a trusted animal hospital and veterinary clinic, we proudly serve Hershey, Palmyra, Hummelstown, Elizabethtown, Harrisburg, Lebanon, and nearby Central PA communities with accurate and compassionate veterinary imaging.
Digital X-Rays for Pets Near Hershey
We offer high-resolution digital X-ray imaging on-site with fast results and minimal radiation exposure. These advanced X-rays let us assess your pet’s bones, joints, soft tissue, and internal organs within seconds.
Dog X-rays and cat X-rays are extremely helpful for diagnosing conditions such as:
For more complex cases, we may also recommend CT scans to obtain even more detailed images of hard-to-see areas of the body.
Understanding X-Ray Procedures
Our X-ray procedure is simple and safe. Most pets do not need sedation unless they are in pain or cannot stay still. Digital X-rays produce clear X-ray images within seconds, which we review with you during your appointment.
If advanced consultation is needed, all ray images can be securely shared with veterinary specialists or referral hospitals. We strive to keep ray cost reasonable and will provide a clear estimate, including any dog or cat X-ray fees, before performing the procedure. Most X-rays include a complete review of findings during the same visit.
Preventive X-Rays & OFA Screening
We also provide orthopedic dog X-rays for certification and breeding purposes. Hershey Veterinary Hospital offers OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) radiographs X-rays to screen dogs for hip or elbow dysplasia.
Important details about OFA X-rays:
When Does Your Pet Need X-Rays?
Your veterinarian may recommend X-rays if your pet is:
We often combine radiographs X-rays with lab testing to provide a complete diagnostic picture.
FAQs About Pet X-Rays
Yes. Digital X-rays use low levels of radiation and are considered safe for pets. At our animal hospital, we follow strict safety protocols recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) to minimize exposure. Our staff is trained in proper handling to ensure your pet remains comfortable and secure throughout the ray procedure. Digital X-ray technology also allows us to take images quickly, further reducing exposure.
Most pets do not need sedation for X-rays. We can often obtain clear radiographs (X-rays) with gentle handling and positioning. However, sedation may be recommended if your pet is in pain, anxious, or needs imaging of sensitive areas of the body, such as the spine or hips. Sedation keeps your pet calm, prevents movement, and helps us capture accurate, detailed images for diagnosis.
Cat and dog X-ray costs can vary depending on which areas of the body need imaging and whether sedation is required. Some ray cost estimates may include a consultation, follow-up discussion, and secure storage of the ray images for future reference. We’ll always provide a clear estimate before performing any ray procedure and can discuss additional services like OFA certification or sharing results with specialists.
Results from digital X-rays are available within seconds. We review the ray images with you during your appointment and explain any findings. If necessary, we can also forward the radiographs (X-rays) to a board-certified veterinary radiologist for a second opinion or to a referral hospital for specialized care. In urgent cases such as a suspected foreign body or heart disease, this rapid access to detailed images can be lifesaving.
Expert Veterinary Imaging in Central PA
As part of our full-service care, Hershey Veterinary Hospital offers:
From wellness screening to urgent care, our digital X-ray technology helps detect problems early and guide effective treatment.
