Pets can’t tell us what’s wrong, and sometimes outward symptoms—like vomiting, coughing, difficulty swallowing, or ongoing discomfort—aren’t enough to pinpoint the cause. That’s where endoscopy comes in. At Apex Animal Hospital, we use this minimally invasive tool to look inside your pet’s body with clarity and precision, helping us make accurate diagnoses without the need for major surgery.
Endoscopy involves inserting a narrow, rigid tube equipped with a camera and light source to directly view internal structures. It provides a stable, high-definition image that’s especially useful for examining the Stomach, Colon,nasal cavity , trachea,urinary bladder, ears, or areas that require detailed visualization.
During the procedure, we can detect blockages, growths, inflammation, foreign bodies, or other abnormalities, and in many cases, collect samples or even remove small objects at the same time.
To ensure accurate results, your pet may need to fast for 12–18 hours beforehand. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia for comfort and safety.
Once anesthetized, the endoscope is gently inserted through the mouth, rectum, urethra, or another access point, depending on what we need to examine. Afterward, most pets recover quickly, though they may be drowsy for a short time. We’ll share our findings immediately and outline next steps, whether that’s medication, monitoring, or additional treatment.
We are one of the few hospitals in BC who are having very high quality video endoscope since 2006.
Our veterinary team is experienced in using endoscopy to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. We prioritize patient comfort and safety while providing clear answers to guide treatment. With in-house equipment and expertise, your pet can often be diagnosed and treated in a single visit.
If your pet is struggling with unexplained symptoms, rigid endoscopy could provide the answers. Call Apex Animal Hospital today at (604) 514-1444 to book an appointment and give your pet access to precise, minimally invasive care.