How Much Does It Cost to X-ray a Dog? A Comprehensive Guide

X-rays are a useful tool for veterinarians, helping them in the diagnosis and treatment of fractures, bladder stones, foreign objects, and other conditions. While useful, x-rays can be expensive, increasing the financial strain on pet parents. This article will provide an overview of x-ray costs, and how pet insurance can help pet parents get cash back on covered vet bills.

How Much is an X-Ray for a Dog? 

X-rays for dogs can range in cost between $75 - $500 per image, but average between $150 - $250 (Mood). There are multiple factors that can play into the cost of a dog’s x-rays including: 

Size of the Pet: Larger dogs may need to be restrained by multiple members of veterinary staff, and require larger X-ray plates (“How Much Do Pet X-Rays Cost? - Vetster”).

Location of the Injury: Depending on where the injury is located, it can be more challenging for veterinary staff to capture an x-ray of the area, increasing the cost of the service (Woods).

Number of X-rays: X-rays are charged per image.  Vets sometimes need to see the injury from multiple angles to better understand the issue and best course of treatment (Woods).

Sedation: Pets that are in pain, fearful, or aggressive can be difficult to hold in position for an x-ray. Vets may opt to sedate the pet to be able to take clear X-ray images. The cost of sedation can vary widely depending on the type of sedative used and the size of the pet, with larger dogs requiring larger doses (“How Much Do Pet X-Rays Cost? - Vetster”).

Location: Vet clinics located in more popular areas like large cities generally have higher service fees (Woods).

Type of Vet Clinic: X-rays taken at private or emergency vet clinics will generally cost more than those taken at charity clinics supported through donations (“How Much Do Pet X-Rays Cost? - Vetster”).

Why do Vets Take X-rays? 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dog x-rays expensive? The average cost of an x-ray for a dog is between  $150 - $250 (Mood). While this can seem expensive, x-rays are a useful diagnostic tool, helping vets provide the best care they can for your pet.

Does pet insurance cover x-rays? Pet insurance can help pet parents get cash back for the cost of x-rays related to the treatment of an accident or illness, given that the condition is not pre-existing. If the x-ray is related to breeding purposes and the monitoring of a pregnant pup, it cannot be covered under a pet insurance plan. 

Do vets put dogs under for x-rays? Sedation is used if the dog cannot remain still for the x-ray, to help vets get a clear image. Dogs that are fearful, aggressive, or in pain will often be sedated before their images are taken (“How Much Do Pet X-Rays Cost? - Vetster”).

Read more: Is Pet Insurance Worth It?

Conclusion

X-rays are a diagnostic tool that can help vets diagnose a variety of health conditions. While they can be expensive, pet parents who have enrolled their pet in a pet insurance plan can get up to 90% cash back on covered vet bills. To learn more about our pet insurance plans, visit our page on dog insurance.