Pinpoint the problem. Plan the right treatment.
Functional and anatomical imaging that can precisely identifies disease and where it’s active in small animals.
- Early Detection
- Precision Imaging
- Expert Care
What is HEALTHY PAWS?
Functional Imaging:
SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) reveals metabolic and functional activity at the cellular level, showing where disease processes are actively occurring—even before structural changes become visible.
Anatomical Precision:
CT (Computed Tomography) provides detailed anatomical localization, allowing us to pinpoint exactly where functional abnormalities are occurring within your pet's body structure.
Hybrid Advantage:
Together, SPECT-CT combines functional and anatomical data in a single imaging session, revealing early or subtle disease processes not visible on X-ray, ultrasound, standalone CT, or MRI.
SPECT-CT reveals early or subtle disease processes not visible on X-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI.
Clinical Indications
SPECT-CT provides diagnostic clarity across multiple specialties,
revealing disease activity with superior diagnostic sensitivity.
Orthopaedics
Localise chronic lameness, subtle fractures, bone tumours, and inflammatory joint disease with unprecedented precision.
Oncology
Detect primary tumours, metastases, and assess treatment response through metabolic activity mapping.
Coming Soon
Gastroenterology
Evaluate portosystemic shunts, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastrointestinal bleeding sources.
Cardiology
Assess myocardial perfusion, cardiac shunts, and vascular abnormalities with functional precision.
Respiratory
Evaluate pulmonary perfusion, thromboembolism, and lung tumours through ventilation-perfusion studies.
Neurology
Identify seizure foci, brain tumours, and inflammatory CNS conditions through functional brain mapping.
Referring Vets
Access cutting-edge SPECT-CT diagnostics for your
most challenging cases. Our team provide detailed interpretation and actionable insights.
- Comprehensive referral support and case consultation
- Detailed diagnostic reports within 48 hours
- Direct communication with specialist radiologists
Pet Owners
When other tests haven’t provided answers, SPECT-CT can reveal what’s causing your pet’s symptoms – giving your veterinarian the clarity needed for effective treatment.
- Safe, non-invasive imaging
- Answers when conventional imaging is inconclusive
- Compassionate care throughout the process
Featured Case Studies
Real cases demonstrating the diagnostic power of SPECT-CT in veterinary medicine.
Persistent Hock Pain in a Racing Greyhound
Clinical Challenge: 3-year-old racing Greyhound with a previously diagnosed stress fracture of the right hock (tarsus), identified on radiographs following…
The Case
Clinical Challenge: A much-loved 10-year-old Kelpie × Red Heeler had recently undergone surgery to remove a sarcoma from the right…
How It Works
A simple, streamlined process designed for your pet’s comfort and diagnostic
clarity
Prepare & Arrive
Your vet sends us the referral with relevant clinical history. We provide simple preparation instructions, you'll consult with the team at Epsom Avenue Vets and confirm sedation requirements based on your pet's individual needs.
Scan & Imaging
Our hybrid SPECT-CT system captures both functional and anatomical images in one comprehensive session, typically lasting 45-90 minutes.
Interpretation & Report
Our team interpret the scans and send a detailed diagnostic report to your veterinarian within 48 hours, enabling informed treatment planning and management decisions.
Safety & Comfort First
Throughout the entire process, your pet’s wellbeing is our top priority. We monitor vital signs continuously, and ensure a calm, stress-free environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about SPECT-CT imaging
How long does a SPECT-CT scan take?
Most SPECT-CT examinations take between 45–90 minutes, including preparation and imaging time. Your pet will be comfortably sedated throughout the procedure to ensure optimal image quality and patient safety.
Is SPECT-CT safe for my pet?
Yes. SPECT-CT uses very low doses of radioactive tracers that are eliminated naturally from the body. The radiation exposure is minimal and comparable to other diagnostic imaging procedures. All safety protocols are strictly followed.
When should SPECT-CT be considered?
SPECT-CT is particularly valuable when conventional imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, standard CT/MRI) hasn’t provided a definitive diagnosis, or when functional/metabolic information is needed to guide treatment decisions.
How quickly will we receive results?
Our specialist radiologists provide detailed interpretation reports within 48 hours of the scan. For urgent cases, preliminary findings can often be communicated the same day.
Do I need a referral from my veterinarian?
Yes. SPECT-CT is a specialist diagnostic service that requires referral from your primary veterinarian. This ensures appropriate case selection and seamless integration of findings into your pet’s overall treatment plan.
Ready to Experience Advanced Diagnostics?
Join the veterinary professionals across Western Australia who trust HealthyPaws for diagnostic clarity when it matters most.
500+
Scans Completed
20+
Years Imaging Experience
48hrs
Average Report Turnaround