BluePearl Pet Hospital
Waltham, MA
Diagnostic Imaging

24/7 Emergency and Specialty

Pet diagnostic imaging by BluePearl.

We understand that seeing your pet experience unusual symptoms or act out of the ordinary can be stressful – especially if you don’t know what’s wrong. Fortunately, our veterinary diagnostic imaging team is made up of experts in using state-of-the-art imaging equipment to reveal the source of the problem, and we’re here to help.

Our commitment is not just to diagnose illnesses; it’s to enhance the well-being of your pet and be with you every step of the way.

A vet specialist holds a small grey puppy wearing a cone on an exam table.

Services we offer.

Your pet will receive unparalleled medical care during their time at the hospital (and they’ll be spoiled with love and attention, too).

Advanced diagnostics

Your pet can’t tell us what’s wrong, so we use sophisticated diagnostics and imaging tools to uncover the source of the problem.

  • Radiography (x-rays)
  • CT scans (computerized tomography)
  • MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
  • Real-time x-ray (fluoroscopy)
  • Ultrasound
  • Contrast radiology studies

Treatment plans

Just as no two patients are the same, neither are their treatment plans. Our diagnostic imaging team delivers key diagnostic information to other specialists and your primary vet so they can develop the most effective treatment plan to get your pet on the path to wellness.

Our board certified specialists and diagnostic imaging team.

Experience makes all the difference. 

Our diagnostic imaging team is made up of veterinarians, vet technicians and assistants, and support staff with rigorous training and experience in specialty medicine. The team works hand in hand to provide the comprehensive, compassionate care your pet needs and deserves. Because we’re a multidisciplinary hospital, the team can consult the expertise of other specialty departments, too.

Leslie Schwarz

DVM, MS, DACVR
Board Certified in Veterinary Radiology

Diagnostic Imaging
On the job

Dr. Leslie Schwarz’s professional interests include small animal radiology, abdominal and non-cardiac thoracic ultrasound and CT. She has a particular interest in the imaging of oncology patients.

Education
  • Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Radiology
  • Residency, Veterinary Radiology, Tufts University, North Grafton MA
  • Internship, Small Animal Medicine & Surgery, Angell Memorial Animal Hospital, Boston MA
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia
  • Master of Science, Animal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick NJ
  • Bachelor of Science, Cook College, Rutgers University, New Brunswick NJ
Off duty

When Dr. Schwarz is not busy attending her children’s various sports, music, or school events, she enjoys skiing, traveling with her family, and keeping her yellow lab, Chica, out of trouble.

Marcia Whiteley

DVM, DACVR
Board Certified in Veterinary Radiology

Diagnostic Imaging
On the job

Dr. Marcia Biber Whiteley is an active lecturer on imaging topics for veterinarians and veterinary technicians throughout the Midwest and Northeast. She is especially interested in non-cardiac and abdominal ultrasound and radiology.

Education
  • Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Radiology
  • Residency, Veterinary Radiology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette IN
  • Bachelor of Science, Cook College, Rutgers University, New Brunswick NJ
Off duty

You can find Dr. Whitely wrapped up in a good book, cooking, at the theatre, or cheering on her beloved St. Louis Cardinals.

What to expect.

We want you to be prepared for your pet’s visit to the radiologist, so you have one less thing to worry about. Our entire BluePearl team will be with you every step of the way.

Before your visit

  • You can make an initial appointment by calling us directly or via referral from your pet’s primary or specialty vet.
  • We’ll get records from your primary or specialty vet before your first visit and collaborate with them to discuss your pet’s history and current condition.
  • Special preparation, such as fasting or medication, may be required before your pet’s imaging appointment. Our team will inform you how to prepare and answer any questions about the procedure.

During your visit

  • Most diagnostic tests rely on patients being still. To make things easier and more comfortable for your pet, we usually use sedation or anesthesia, which also helps avoid the need for repeat imaging. 
  • Once your pet’s procedure is complete, our team will review the images and consult with your pet’s care team.
  • You’ll have plenty of time and opportunity to ask questions as a doctor goes over your pet’s results, diagnosis and treatment options.

After your visit

  • Our team will ensure that your pet’s continuity of care continues by sharing imaging results with your pet’s primary or specialty veterinarian.
  • If further testing is required, especially for monitoring treatment progress, your primary veterinarian or specialist may order additional imaging studies.
  • You know your pet better than anyone, and you play a crucial role in their treatment plan. If you have any questions or concerns about their diagnostic imaging experience, let us know – we’re here for you.