Thermal Imaging

A person holding a tablet with a thermal image of a dog, while another individual holds the dog in front of a door.

What is Thermal Imaging?

  • Thermal imaging is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that detects infrared heat patterns from the body’s surface. It is commonly used in veterinary and medical fields to identify areas of inflammation, poor circulation, or injury by analyzing temperature variation.

Benefits of Thermal Imaging:

  • Non-invasive and painless: No radiation or physical contact required, making it stress-free for pets.

  • Early detection of inflammation: Identifies areas of heat associated with inflammation before clinical signs may appear.

  • Visualizes pain patterns: Helps pinpoint areas of discomfort that may not be evident on X-rays or MRI.

  • Monitors treatment progress: Tracks changes over time to assess response to therapies.

  • Assists in lameness localization: Useful for detecting subtle asymmetries or compensatory changes.

  • Supports neurological evaluations: Highlights temperature differences related to nerve dysfunction.

  • Safe for repeat use: Can be performed multiple times without side effects.

  • Complements other diagnostics: Enhances accuracy when used alongside physical exams, imaging, and lab tests.