What Tools Do Veterinarians Use?
Veterinarians use some diagnostic tools that also are used for treatment of human patients, such as digital X-rays, computed tomography scans and laboratory equipment. Some specialized tools for animal care include holders, castration devices and tag applicators.
Veterinarians may use a CT scan on pets for checking on soft tissue masses, lameness, ear diseases or nasal discharge. Lab tests involve common lab equipment such as microscopes and centrifuges and include blood counts, blood typing, clotting factor evaluations and urinalysis.
Other examples of equipment types shared between human and animal hospitals include autoclaves, dental polishing equipment, Doppler blood pressure machines, intravenous pumps, endoscopes and blood pressure cuffs.
Veterinarians sometimes need animal holders to secure animals who aren’t under sedation and may be confused and frightened about their treatment. Animal holders usually consist of a collar with a long handle and a manual lock. They may be used with a mouth gag or cheek dilator to keep the animal from biting. Emasculators and castrators are specially designed forceps. Horses may require special hoof instruments for testing, trimming and pulling nails. Special shears are used for removing wool from sheep. Animals also may require their own special tool kits for eye, ear and dental care.
