At VEG, the job of a sonographer isn’t as simple as operating a machine or performing a scan. Their skill and expertise performing ultrasounds can turn uncertainty into answers in seconds and shape treatment plans—and be the difference in saving a patient’s life.

Their role is critical to emergency care at VEG, so during Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month, we’re highlighting the amazing work they do to help people and their pets when they need it most. In this Q&A, VEG Chief of Radiology Jaime Rechy explains what our sonographers do, why their jobs are so rewarding, and why we appreciate them so much at VEG.

How does ultrasound help elevate emergency care at VEG?

Jaime: Ultrasound is like having a window into a patient's body, allowing our teams to quickly and non-invasively assess internal organs, identify life-threatening conditions—such as uncontrolled bleeding and GI blockages—and guide immediate interventions. This rapid diagnostic tool not only saves precious time when every second counts, but also empowers our teams to make highly informed decisions that lead to more precise and effective treatment plans. Ultimately, ultrasound transforms our ability to respond with confidence and precision, directly contributing to more positive outcomes for our patients.

What’s something most people don’t realize about what VEG sonographers do?

Jaime: Most people don't fully grasp the incredible impact sonographers have in our hospitals. It's far more than just operating a machine; it's about how they recognize subtle visual cues inside our patients' bodies, understand complex anatomy and pathology in real-time, and often, are the first to uncover vital information that guides a patient's entire treatment journey. Our skilled sonographers aren't just taking pictures; they're solving a diagnostic puzzle under immense pressure, often providing clarity that can mean the difference between life and death. It's a testament to their dedication to precision and their profound impact on patient care.

A VEG sonographer performing an ultrasound on a patient.

Why is this such a rewarding skill to pursue in emergency medicine?

Jaime: It places you at the forefront of emergency and critical care, offering an immediate and tangible impact on patient outcomes. There's great satisfaction in helping rapidly diagnose a life-threatening condition and giving a sick pet a chance at recovery. It’s a skill that constantly challenges us to learn and grow, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge and expertise. Every scan is an opportunity to make a vital difference, and knowing that our precision and insight contribute directly to saving lives and comforting families is an unparalleled source of professional fulfillment.

What would you say to VEGgies interested in developing their ultrasound skills?

Jaime: To any prospective veterinary nurse or assistant with an interest in developing ultrasound skills, I would say: You are on the path to unlocking an incredible superpower in your veterinary career. Embracing ultrasound will not only expand your diagnostic capabilities; it will also deepen your understanding of patient pathophysiology in ways you may not have imagined. It's a commitment to continuous learning, honing your visual acuity and critical thinking, and becoming an even more invaluable asset to your team and patients. The journey will be challenging and incredibly rewarding, opening doors to advanced roles and empowering you to contribute to emergency care in a truly transformative way. Seize this opportunity to elevate your impact and become a diagnostic hero to your patients.

Is there anything you want to share in appreciation for current sonographers—or with prospective candidates considering VEG?

Jaime: To our current sonographers: Your dedication, precision, and unwavering commitment to medical excellence are the bedrock of helping us become the world's veterinary emergency company. You are the eyes that see beyond the surface, the skilled hands that unveil critical truths, and the brilliant minds that provide clarity to our doctors in moments of crisis. Thank you for your tireless efforts, your pursuit of mastery, and the profound impact you have on every pet's life you touch. You are truly appreciated.

To prospective candidates considering becoming a sonographer at VEG: If you are passionate about making a tangible difference in your patient's lives, thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, and are eager to develop a skill that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply compassionate, then VEG is the place for you. We recognize the vital role of sonography in modern veterinary emergency medicine and are committed to fostering an environment where talent can flourish and your skills will be instrumental in saving lives. Join us in our mission to help people and their pets when they need it most, where your expertise will be celebrated and your contributions will genuinely matter.