Equine Diagnostic Imaging and Laboratory Services in Covington, GA

Equine diagnostics is much more than using the latest technology, tools, and equipment to evaluate the health of your horse. Our Countryside team takes a holistic approach to your horse's care, looking at the whole picture and accounting for subtle signs, behaviors, and physical changes that may indicate an underlying health concern. However, we also rely heavily on our state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities to reach an accurate diagnosis quickly and efficiently, both in the field and at our facility.

Our commitment to finding answers when your horse isn’t at the top of the game has led us to invest in the best of the best. Cutting-edge equipment and technology allow us to identify health issues early, implement targeted treatment plans, and support optimal outcomes for your horse’s long-term health and performance.

When your horse needs a prompt, accurate diagnosis, turn to our team—we won’t leave you without an answer. Give us a call at (770) 787-4711 or book an appointment online.

Request an Appointment

Digital Radiography

Equine digital radiography is a noninvasive imaging technology that allows us to capture highly detailed internal views of your horse in seconds. Similar to a digital camera, images are available almost instantly—without the need for chemical film processing. Our veterinarians utilize this advanced technology to assess a wide range of conditions, from orthopedic concerns such as lameness to cardiovascular health. Digital radiography is a crucial tool in our diagnostic process, offering precise insights into your horse's bones, joints, and organs.

Ultrasound

Ultrasonography is a quick, painless, and effective diagnostic tool that uses sound waves to create real-time images of your horse's internal structures. This noninvasive technology is invaluable for evaluating soft tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and organs.

At Countryside, our experienced equine veterinarians use ultrasound to diagnose and monitor a range of conditions, such as:

Lameness and ligament injuries
Tendon abnormalities
Pregnancy evaluations
Colic assessments
Masses
Abscesses
Inflammatory conditions

In addition, ultrasound technology plays a key role in guiding medical procedures such as targeted injections, ensuring precision and effectiveness.

Gastroscopy

As every horse owner knows, a healthy gastrointestinal tract is crucial to their horse’s comfort, performance, and overall well-being. Equine gastroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a flexible video endoscope to examine the esophagus and stomach. Performed under light sedation to ensure comfort, gastroscopy is the only definitive way to diagnose and assess the severity of stomach ulcers—one of the most common conditions affecting horses today. Gastroscopy can also be used to identify stomach impactions, parasites, tumors, and other GI tract abnormalities.

Signs that your horse may benefit from a gastroscopic exam include:

Teeth grinding
Sensitivity around the girth or flanks
Reluctance to be brushed or blanketed
Decreased performance
Behavioral changes
Recurrent colic symptoms
Chronic loose stools
Appetite or weight loss

At Countryside, we take a targeted approach to ulcer treatment, ensuring accurate diagnosis before beginning therapy to achieve the best outcomes for your horse. Treatment may include medications and lifestyle adjustments, and our veterinarians will provide a customized feeding and exercise plan to support your horse's recovery.

Upper Airway Endoscopy

Our state-of-the-art endoscopic equipment provides a real-time view of the horse's upper respiratory tract, helping to diagnose and manage conditions affecting the pharynx, larynx, guttural pouches, and trachea. Upper airway video endoscopy is particularly valuable for sport and racehorses, as respiratory issues can significantly impact performance.

Common signs indicating the need for an airway endoscopy include:

Reduced stamina or energy levels
Loud or labored breathing, especially during exercise
Nasal discharge (mucus, pus, blood, or food)
Persistent coughing or wheezing
Facial swelling

Endoscopy may also be utilized alongside radiography, ultrasound, biopsy, or cytology to confirm a diagnosis and guide treatment plans.

In-House Laboratory Diagnostics

Bloodwork is a fundamental component of equine healthcare, providing critical insights into your horse's overall health and detecting potential issues before they become serious. At Countryside, our in-house laboratory allows for rapid, accurate testing, including:

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

A CBC assesses red and white blood cells, quantifies platelets, and can aid in identifying conditions such as anemia, infection, inflammation, and some types of neoplasia.

Chemistry Panel

Different chemistry profiles evaluate enzyme levels, electrolytes, and organ function, helping diagnose conditions related to the liver, kidneys, and pancreas.

Lactate Blood Level

The level of lactate in your horse’s blood provides valuable information about the severity of colic and helps guide treatment decisions.

Our laboratory services play an essential role in preventative care, early detection, and ongoing management of equine health concerns.

Find An Answer with Equine Diagnostics

At Countryside Equine Hospital, our dedication to advanced diagnostics and technology ensures that you always receive an answer about your horse’s health. Whether at our facility or in the field, we are committed to delivering precise, timely, and compassionate veterinary services to support your horse’s health and performance.

Contact us today at (770) 787-4711 to schedule diagnostic testing or learn more about our equine diagnostic services.