It depends on the dog and the condition being examined. A standard radiology examination includes an orthopedic consultation, radiographs of the dorsal, lumbar and caudal vertebrae, vertabrae (spinal bones), and hips, radiographs of the sternum, ribs, and appendicular skeleton (including patellas and elbows), and a gait analysis. The cost of a standard routine x-ray exam is $300 and can go up over $1000 if need more exams or need more time to interpret the film.This answer was correct in 2018. If you look at the website below they do charge based on size, weight and medical needs of your pet so they may cost more than what is stated in the question.
Does a dog need to be sedated for X-rays?
Yes, at times, sedation may be required for diagnostic X-rays.The type of X-ray required will dictates the type of sedation used. An X-ray of the abdomen to check for a urinary tract infection or colorectal cancer would require painkillers and a light sedative to help patient relax. A child’s X-ray without the use of radiation would use local anesthetics to numb the area being examined. An X-ray of your head with a prescription would require general anesthesia due to the exposure and can cause damage if not done properly.Once sedated, X-rays can provide you with valuable information about your health including your bones and teeth, lungs, heart and abdominal conditions. Still, it is important to remember that no procedure or test is 100% accurate, but X-rays are extremely helpful in diagnosis of many health problems.
How much do X-rays cost for dogs with sedation?
X-rays can be a very serious procedure for your pet, so it is important to know exactly what is involved and what the costs will be. There are several x-ray machines that can be used for dogs and some are more expensive than others. The type of machine you choose will affect the costs as well.With some machines, you can take your pet to the x-ray room or you can tranquilize them. Some machines use a cage that your pet must be in or under; others require a tub with a lid for the dog to lay in. As strange as it sounds, if you put your dog in the tub they may feel more comfortable, as it provides them with more room. Regardless of which type of machine you choose, the price will likely include the x-ray technician’s salary and whatever supplies are needed. Prices may also include the cost of having the dog tranquilized, as well as any food or water they will need during the procedure.The technician may also charge by the scan or by the inch depending on how many images are needed. The actual price will vary based on your location and what type of machine you choose.There are many other factors that go into X-ray costs such as travel time, waiting time because of an emergency call-out and minimum charge amounts per scan. So don’t forget to add all this up when calculating your total costs!