Technology is helping to transform pet care in Keighley

Computed tomography, or CT, scans have been available in human medicine since the 1970s.

But now they are also becoming an increasingly important imaging tool in veterinary medicine.

And while CT was once only available in veterinary university hospitals and specialist practices, its use has expanded.

"Computed tomography rapidly emits a series of narrow x-ray beams through the patient’s body as they are moved through the scanner," says Jenny Savage, clinical manager at Aireworth Vets in Keighley where the service has been available for just over a year.

"A computer is then used to produce a cross-sectional image of the required field. This very detailed image can detect subtle changes that are not always visible on other diagnostic images such as x-rays and ultrasound.

"This technology is just one example of how veterinary medicine has advanced over the last decade."