Dog pregnancy ultrasound, with results while you wait
An ultrasound performed at the right stage of pregnancy can confirm pregnancy and check fetal viability, with findings discussed with you during the visit. Ultrasound is not used to determine the exact number of puppies.
Timing
When to schedule the scan
If an ultrasound is performed too early, the pregnancy may not yet be visible.
Pregnancy ultrasound is typically scheduled around 25 to 30 days after mating. At this stage, we can usually confirm pregnancy and detect fetal heartbeats. Tell us the mating date when you call, and we will help you choose the appropriate time for the scan.
Ultrasound is not reliable for determining the exact number of puppies or kittens. Fetuses can overlap on the ultrasound image, making an accurate count difficult.
- Confirms whether your pet is pregnant
- Detects fetal heartbeats and assesses viability at the time of the scan
- Helps estimate the stage of pregnancy and expected delivery timeframe
- Evaluates the uterus and pregnancy for abnormalities or signs of complications
Why ultrasound
Why we use ultrasound in pregnancy
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images, with no radiation exposure. During pregnancy, it allows us to confirm pregnancy, see fetal heartbeats, and assess fetal development and viability.
X-rays serve a different purpose and may be recommended later in pregnancy, particularly when an accurate estimate of the number of puppies or kittens is needed.
The hair over the examination area may be clipped to improve image quality, and most pets tolerate the procedure well. Fasting is generally not required for a pregnancy ultrasound. If any special preparation is needed for your pet, we will let you know when you schedule the appointment.
What to expect
What happens at the appointment
Bring the mating dates
Tell us the mating date — or range of dates if there was more than one — and let us know about any previous pregnancies or litters.
The ultrasound
Your pet will lie comfortably on a padded table while we perform the scan. A small area of hair may be clipped to improve image quality.
Your results
We will discuss what we see with you during the visit, including whether your pet is pregnant and whether fetal heartbeats are detected. There is no waiting days for an outside ultrasound report.
Common questions
Questions we are asked
How soon can a pregnancy be detected?
If an ultrasound is performed too early, the pregnancy may not yet be visible. Pregnancy ultrasound is typically scheduled around 25 to 30 days after mating. At this stage, we can usually confirm pregnancy and detect fetal heartbeats.
Can the scan tell me how many puppies there are?
No. Ultrasound is not reliable for determining the exact number of puppies or kittens. Fetuses can overlap on the ultrasound image, making an accurate count difficult. X-rays serve a different purpose and may be recommended later in pregnancy, particularly when an accurate estimate of the number of puppies or kittens is needed.
Does she need to fast before the scan?
Fasting is generally not required for a pregnancy ultrasound. If any special preparation is needed for your pet, we will let you know when you schedule the appointment.
Is ultrasound safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create real-time images, with no radiation exposure, and most pets tolerate the procedure well.
Call us or schedule a visit
Call us with your questions, or to schedule a visit for your pet.
- Address
- 6937 Warner Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92647 - Hours
- Monday – Saturday, 9 AM – 8:30 PM · Tue to 6 PMSunday: closed.
- Phone
- (714) 274-9305