Diagnostic Tails

Animal Imaging

Focus on real-life stories of pets and animals where imaging saved the day, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnostics. Dive into different technologies like nuclear scintigraphy, MRIs, and CT scans for various animals. Each episode offers insights into the world of veterinary imaging, sharing stories, breakthroughs, and advancements in imaging techniques.

  1. No More Blind Spots: Smart Use of MRI and CT in General Practice

    FEB 11

    No More Blind Spots: Smart Use of MRI and CT in General Practice

    In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, hosts Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays break down how advanced imaging fits into everyday veterinary practice — not just specialty or referral medicine. Using real clinical cases, they explain when radiographs fall short, how to choose between CT, MRI, and nuclear scintigraphy, and why advanced diagnostics often lead to faster answers, clearer treatment plans, and better patient outcomes. This episode is designed for general practitioners managing challenging lameness, neurologic, and internal medicine cases, and for anyone who wants to better understand how modern veterinary imaging supports accurate diagnosis without unnecessary delays. You’ll learn: When to escalate from radiographs to CT or MRIHow bone scans help localize elusive lamenessWhy MRI is ideal for neurologic and soft tissue diseaseWhen CT is faster, more efficient, and cost-effectiveCommon misconceptions around cost, anesthesia, and accessibilityHow advanced imaging supports — not replaces — the referring veterinarianWhy annual bloodwork and trend tracking improve long-term diagnostics Whether you’re managing an unresolved limp, intermittent neurologic signs, or vague GI disease, this episode reinforces one core idea: advanced imaging is an extension of your practice — and a powerful diagnostic ally. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Diagnostic Tails 00:45 – The goal of the episode: using advanced imaging in everyday practice 01:15 – When radiographs don’t give answers: the limping Labrador scenario 02:00 – Bone scans as a localization tool before CT or MRI 02:40 – Case study: bilateral forelimb lameness and the “wrong problem” trap 04:15 – How bone scan + CT led to a definitive elbow dysplasia diagnosis 05:00 – Why advanced imaging improves treatment planning 06:00 – Why general practitioners underutilize advanced imaging 06:45 – Animal Imaging as an extension of the referring veterinarian 07:30 – Turnaround times and what reports include 08:15 – Host introductions and clinical backgrounds 09:30 – MRI misconceptions: “above my pay grade” and referral myths 10:45 – How MRI works (in practical, real-world terms) 12:30 – Why MRI studies take time — and why size matters 15:00 – CT vs MRI: choosing the right modality 18:15 – Case example: bicipital bursitis diagnosed via MRI 20:00 – Neurologic cases where MRI truly shines Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists https://animalimaging.net/ (972) 869-2180 info@animalimaging.net Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/ Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalimaging Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging

    41 min
  2. Paws & Perspective: Debunking the “Veterinary Scam” Myth

    JAN 21

    Paws & Perspective: Debunking the “Veterinary Scam” Myth

    In this episode of Diagnostic Tails: Animal Imaging Uncovered, Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays address growing public mistrust toward veterinarians following a high-profile media interview that portrayed veterinary medicine as profit-driven, cartel-controlled, and harmful to pets. Drawing on decades of real-world clinical experience, the doctors unpack the true drivers behind rising veterinary costs, including medical inflation, shared supply chains with human medicine, staffing realities, and the crushing burden of veterinary education debt. They explain why comparisons to human healthcare costs are often misleading, how private equity can both help and harm depending on structure, and why veterinarians are leaving the profession at alarming rates. The episode also explores telemedicine limitations, the misunderstood value of hands-on physical exams, the emotional toll placed on veterinarians by public misinformation, and the danger of narratives that suggest veterinarians are “in it for the money.” The conversation closes with practical, preventative guidance for pet owners and a call for empathy, realism, and partnership in modern veterinary care. Key Takeaways 1. Rising Veterinary Costs Reflect Medical Inflation Veterinary medicine relies on the same drugs, equipment, and suppliers as human healthcare.Costs have risen approximately 42% since 2019, largely due to supply chain inflation and limited buying power for independent clinics. 2. Veterinarians Are Not Overcompensated The average veterinarian salary (~$125,000) must be weighed against $185,000–$250,000+ in student debt.Veterinarians earn significantly less than physicians with comparable training length and responsibility. 3. Burnout Is Driving the Veterinary Shortage The shortage is caused largely by attrition, not lack of graduates.Long hours, emotional strain, online harassment, and financial pressure are forcing veterinarians out of the field.Veterinarians have one of the highest suicide rates of any profession. 4. Telemedicine Has Real Limits in Veterinary Care Veterinary medicine is deeply tactile and observational—touch, smell, sound, and movement matter.Telemedicine is most effective within an existing veterinarian-client-patient relationship, not as a replacement for exams. 5. Private Equity Is Complex, Not Inherently Harmful While not without flaws, responsible private equity can improve benefits, staffing stability, and access to advanced care.Many veterinarians no longer want to own practices, and PE can provide sustainable transition options. 6. Preventative Care Extends Life and Improves Quality span class="ql-ui"...

    43 min
  3. Perfectly Positioned: How Culture Is Made

    JAN 14

    Perfectly Positioned: How Culture Is Made

    In this episode of Diagnostic Tails: Animal Imaging's Uncovered, Dr. Amy Armentrout, Dr. Lon Hays, and veterinary technician Mia Loredo pull back the curtain on what truly makes Animal Imaging different: culture as a clinical strategy. Through real stories, humor, and hard-earned insight, the team explains how a people-first workplace directly supports better diagnostics, stronger clinical decision-making, and improved patient outcomes. From technician-led case ownership and cross-training across modalities to tackling high-risk imaging cases others turn away, this conversation highlights how trust, education, and psychological safety elevate veterinary medicine. They also address the emotional weight of referral-level imaging, the realities of high-stakes anesthesia, and why fun, boundaries, and shared values are not “extras” but essential tools for longevity in veterinary medicine. The result is a candid, thoughtful look at how intentional culture fuels excellence in advanced veterinary imaging. Episode Timestamps00:00 – 01:15 Welcome 01:15 – 03:00 Purpose, mission, and why employees come first at Animal Imaging 03:00 – 05:00 Technician autonomy, case ownership, and shared leadership on the floor 05:00 – 07:30 Trust, teamwork, and running multiple imaging modalities under pressure 07:30 – 09:45 Cross-training, education, and building a resilient, highly skilled team 09:45 – 12:30 Low turnover, hiring for values, and why culture is treated as a business model 12:30 – 15:30 Referral-level medicine: complex anesthesia, unstable patients, and high-risk imaging 15:30 – 17:45 Taking on cases others won’t—and why answers matter more than comfort 17:45 – 20:30 Social media, humor, and giving the team creative ownership beyond the clinic 20:30 – 23:45 Mental health in veterinary medicine and the role of levity and boundaries 23:45 – 26:30 Advice for leaders: education, trust, and avoiding micromanagement 26:30 – 29:30 Retention, growth paths, and supporting team members as they advance 29:30 – 32:55 Tail-end tips: revisiting core values, communication styles, and leading with care Key TakeawaysCulture drives clinical outcomes When technicians are trusted, educated, and supported, decision-making improves—and so does patient care. Technician autonomy matters Allowing techs to lead cases, manage modalities, and make real-time decisions builds confidence and excellence. Hire for values, train for skills Technical skills can be taught; integrity, curiosity, and teamwork cannot. Advanced imaging requires trust High-risk anesthesia and unstable patients demand strong communication and shared responsibility. Education fuels retention Investing in CE and implementing what staff bring back keeps teams engaged and growing. Fun is not frivolous Appropriate humor and connection are essential coping tools in a field that regularly delivers hard news. Leadership is about letting go Micromanagement erodes culture; trust and accountability sustain it. Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists https://animalimaging.net/ (972)...

    33 min
  4. It Takes a Team: The Realities of Veterinary Referrals

    12/17/2025

    It Takes a Team: The Realities of Veterinary Referrals

    In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Amy Armentrout, Dr. Lon Hays, and veterinary technician Hannah pull back the curtain on how referral systems really work and why effective communication between clinics and specialty teams directly impacts patient care. From scheduling a CT or thyroid scan to managing urgent same-day cases, the Animal Imaging team explains how they act as an extension of general practice, supporting veterinarians with timely diagnostics while protecting client relationships. You’ll learn what makes a complete referral form, how to avoid common stumbling blocks, and why a simple phone call can save valuable time for pets, owners, and practitioners alike. Blending humor, relatable stories, and practical guidance, this conversation reveals the often-unseen systems that keep advanced veterinary imaging running smoothly. Timestamps & Highlights [00:00:00] Welcome to Diagnostic Tails – introducing the focus on real-world imaging stories and advanced technologies. [00:01:00] Meet the hosts and guest Hannah; quick background on Animal Imaging’s role as a referral-only diagnostic center. [00:02:45] Dr. Hays’ journey from small-animal practice owner to imaging expert. [00:04:00] Why Animal Imaging only accepts cases through veterinarian referrals and how that protects continuity of care. [00:05:00] Step-by-step: how to submit a referral through the online portal or by phone/fax for equine and small-animal cases. [00:06:30] The technician’s role in reviewing records, verifying lab work, and prepping for approval. [00:09:00] Common issues: missing lab work, unclear case details, and how better info speeds up scheduling. [00:11:00] Importance of clear communication when patients are under anesthesia—why rapid doctor-to-doctor contact matters. [00:13:00] The challenge of reaching busy general practitioners and tips for training front-desk staff to route calls. [00:15:30] How to streamline medical records—send only relevant, recent information to prevent delays. [00:17:30] Notable red flags: heart murmurs, kidney disease, and behavioral notes that affect anesthesia plans. [00:19:30] Time-sensitive procedures like thyroid scans—why punctuality is critical when handling nuclear medicine. [00:21:00] The balance between client education and respecting the referring veterinarian’s relationship. [00:22:30] Handling urgent cases and same-day scheduling—how direct communication ensures fast care. [00:24:00] Funny and “lost in translation” moments from referral forms—when “spicy” cats, “tummies,” and “grumpy old ladies” show up on submissions. [00:26:00] Why temperament and owner notes help create safer, smoother imaging days. [00:28:00] Emergency examples—how picking up the phone leads to faster solutions. [00:31:00] Encouraging veterinarians to understand all imaging options—from MRIs to bone scans. [00:32:00] The importance of recent bloodwork and chest x-rays before anesthesia—and what happens when results reveal surprises. [00:33:30] Balancing affordability with advanced care—why Animal Imaging works to keep costs competitive. [00:36:00] Storytime: unexpected foreign bodies and the “miracle dog” Darby’s imaging surprise. [00:37:20] Closing invitation: students, technicians, and veterinarians are welcome to tour the facility and learn about imaging careers. Key Takeaways Referrals Protect Patients & Practices Animal Imaging is referral-only to maintain continuity of care, ensuring diagnostics support—not replace—primary veterinarians.Communication Is Critical When time matters, a quick phone call between doctors can mean same-day answers instead of costly delays.Efficiency Through Collaboration Clear instructions, pre-visit sedation plans (for

    38 min
  5. Love At First Slice: CT of the Thorax

    11/19/2025

    Love At First Slice: CT of the Thorax

    In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays break down the power of CT in small-animal medicine, spotlighting why CT consistently outperforms radiographs - especially for detecting pulmonary nodules, planning oncology cases, and guiding complex procedures. They explore when sedation is enough, when anesthesia is required, and how contrast, breath-holds, and modern fan-beam technology elevate diagnostic accuracy. The conversation moves through real cases including Sancho’s hidden metastatic disease, a CT-guided lung mass aspirate, a young dog with a vascular anomaly, and an inventive urethral stricture study - illustrating how CT changes outcomes, improves surgical planning, and saves patients from unnecessary procedures. They wrap with a practical comparison of CT vs. MRI and clear guidance on choosing the right modality for the right case.     EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00–01:00 — Intro to thoracic CT & why it’s a go-to modality.   01:00–02:30 — CT advantages: speed, clarity, and value over radiographs.   03:30–05:15 — Sedation vs. anesthesia, contrast use, and why breath-holds matter.   05:15–06:30 — Fan-beam vs. cone-beam CT: what’s the difference?   07:00–09:15 — Case 1: Sancho - clean X-rays, but CT reveals multiple pulmonary nodules.   10:12–11:25 — Case 2: Snickers - CT-guided lung mass aspirate and why ultrasound can’t reach it.   11:58–12:35 — Case 3: Persistent Right Aortic Arch - diagnosing a congenital vascular anomaly.   15:00–15:57 — Case 4: Urethral stricture - creative retrograde contrast CT for surgical planning.   16:15–17:40 — Why thoracic CT should accompany most soft-tissue studies.   18:00–18:45 — Big-dog abdomen workups: when CT beats ultrasound.   19:20–22:10 — CT vs. MRI: which modality to choose and when.   23:26–24:30 — Final takeaways + call for clinicians to consult the imaging team.   KEY TAKEAWAYS: CT provides far greater detail than radiographs, especially for pulmonary, abdominal, and oncologic cases. Small nodules and subtle abnormalities are frequently invisible on X-ray but obvious on CT. Cone-beam CT has its place (dentistry/skull) but cannot replace fan-beam CT for thorax or abdomen. CT-guided aspirates offer precise, safe sampling for challenging masses surrounded by air. 3D reconstructions and vascular studies improve surgical planning and owner decision-making. For elbows, carpi, and below-stifle issues → CT excels; for shoulders, hips, and neuro → MRI is preferred. Adding a thoracic CT when evaluating masses is cost-effective and often case-changing.  Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists: https://animalimaging.net/  (972) 869-2180 info@animalimaging.net  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/  Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalimaging  Instagram: a href="https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    25 min
  6. Scan Masters Unleashed: Veterinary Technician Triumphs in Imaging

    09/26/2025

    Scan Masters Unleashed: Veterinary Technician Triumphs in Imaging

    Welcome to another episode of Diagnostic Tails Animal Imaging’s Uncovered Pawdcast! In this episode, we spotlight the essential role of veterinary technicians in advanced animal imaging. Join Dr. Amy Armentrout and star technicians Hannah and Mia as they share real-life stories, discuss the challenges and rewards of their work, and reveal what sets their team apart in the world of veterinary medicine. Timestamps & Episode Highlights 0:00 – Introduction Overview of the podcast’s mission and today’s focus on veterinary technicians. 1:12 – Meet the Technicians Hannah and Mia introduce themselves and their backgrounds in small animal and equine medicine. 2:04 – Pathways into Veterinary Medicine The technicians share their unique journeys into the field. 3:05 – Rewards & Challenges Insights into what makes the job rewarding and the emotional highs and lows. 4:16 – Core Technician Skills Discussion of essential skills: blood draws, catheter placement, emergency response. 7:00 – What Sets This Team Apart The value of diverse backgrounds and technician-led case management. 10:00 – Advanced Imaging’s Impact How working with advanced imaging has changed their approach to diagnostics. 13:00 – Memorable Cases Stories of critical interventions and life-saving moments. 16:00 – Coping with Stress Strategies for handling the emotional demands of veterinary medicine. 19:00 – Misconceptions About Technicians Debunking myths and highlighting the complexity of the technician’s role. 22:00 – Diagnostic Tools Spotlight The benefits of I-131 for hyperthyroid cats and the power of CT imaging. 25:00 – Final Thoughts & Appreciation Advice for aspiring technicians, the importance of recognition, and a shout-out to the team’s TikTok channel. Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to check out our TikTok channel for behind-the-scenes fun, and stay tuned for more stories from the world of animal imaging. https://www.tiktok.com/@animalimaging Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists https://animalimaging.net/ (972) 869-2180 info@animalimaging.net Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/ Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalimaging Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

    42 min
  7. Beyond The Textbook - Challenging Cases With Dr. Hays

    08/27/2025

    Beyond The Textbook - Challenging Cases With Dr. Hays

    In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays dive into the realities of tackling challenging imaging cases—from unexpected findings like bullets and migrating microchips, to rare diagnoses and exotic patients like sharks and camels. They pull back the curtain on what happens when imaging doesn’t go as planned, the importance of collaboration with referring veterinarians and specialists, and how financial considerations and anesthesia risks play into client decision-making. This episode reminds practitioners to maximize in-house diagnostics, stay mindful of anesthesia protocols, and embrace teamwork to deliver the best outcomes possible. Key Takeaways Unexpected Findings:Metal objects like bullets or plates can render MRIs useless, requiring a switch to CT.Microchips can interfere with imaging or migrate to unexpected locations—scan broadly when searching.Collaboration Matters:Real-time sharing of images with neurologists, surgeons, and specialists helps guide diagnostics.Quick communication with referring veterinarians ensures timely decisions while patients are under anesthesia.Anesthesia & Patient Safety:Sedation/anesthesia is necessary for clear, diagnostic images—wiggling patients lead to unusable results.Protocols are tailored to patient age, breed, and health conditions to minimize risk.Pediatric and very small patients can pose unique anesthetic and imaging challenges.Exotic & Memorable Cases:Beyond dogs, cats, and horses, Animal Imaging has imaged hedgehogs, guinea pigs, cheetahs, zebra sharks, stingrays, and soon—a camel named Wednesday.Diagnostic Lessons:Where possible take in-house x-rays first—they may reveal conditions (e.g., osteosarcoma, foreign bodies) before advanced imaging.Don’t overlook ultrasound practice; frequent scanning improves. Resources Mentioned Southwest Veterinary Symposium – Meet Dr. Lon Hays and the Animal Imaging team (last weekend of September).Animal Imaging Services – Advanced imaging for equine, small animal, and exotic cases, including MRI, CT, scintigraphy, and ultrasound.Veterinary Safety Tips – Use proper PPE (lead aprons, thyroid shields) during radiographs; collimation improves image quality and reduces exposure. Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists https://animalimaging.net/ (972) 869-2180 info@animalimaging.net Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/ Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalimaging Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

    31 min
  8. Whisker Wisdom - Dr. Hays' Vet Tips and Tales

    07/30/2025

    Whisker Wisdom - Dr. Hays' Vet Tips and Tales

    Ever wish you could download 30 years of veterinary wisdom in under an hour? In this special episode, Dr. Amy Armentrout sits down with her co-host, Dr. Lon Hays, to reflect on his 30-year journey—from new grad to clinic owner to seasoned veterinarian at Animal Imaging. Together, they explore how diagnostics, treatments, and practice culture have evolved over the years. Dr. Hays shares candid stories from “the dark ages” of flea and tick dips and daily heartworm prevention, to the modern tools transforming general practice — like long-acting injectables, CT-guided aspirates, and bone scans. Whether you're a new grad wrestling with imposter syndrome, a seasoned practitioner navigating today's veterinary landscape, or a student wondering about specialization, this episode delivers practical wisdom, heartfelt honesty, and career-long lessons in how to keep learning, leading, and loving the job. 📚 Resources & Takeaways: 👥 Career Thoughts: New Grads: You’re not alone. Ask, collaborate, and learn by doingMid-Career Vets: If you’re burning out, try something new—it’s never too late to pivotAspiring Owners: Start early, trust your staff, and run your clinic like a teamGeneral Practitioners: You can practice high-end medicine without being boarded—your curiosity is your credential 📞 Referring Veterinarian Tips: Unsure which imaging modality fits? Call us—Dr. Hays and the team are here to helpWe partner with you—we don’t “take the case,” we help solve itBone scans, CT-guided aspirates, and nuclear imaging can dramatically speed up diagnoses 🎓 Upcoming Event: Neurology CE Series (Fall) – Stay tuned for detailsDon’t miss Dr. Rich’s practical approach to neurology for general practitioners Connect with Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists https://animalimaging.net/ (972) 869-2180 info@animalimaging.net Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/ Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalimaging Instagam https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging

    35 min
See All (15)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Focus on real-life stories of pets and animals where imaging saved the day, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnostics. Dive into different technologies like nuclear scintigraphy, MRIs, and CT scans for various animals. Each episode offers insights into the world of veterinary imaging, sharing stories, breakthroughs, and advancements in imaging techniques.

Information

  • Creator
    Animal Imaging
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Animal Imaging
  • Show Website
    Diagnostic Tails