The surface temperature of an animal can indicate where there is an abnormality and therefore shows where to investigate further, making infrared technology a useful tool for veterinary practitioners. Thermal imaging aids diagnosis and determining the effectiveness of treatment. In the case of racehorses, for example, the efficiency of a training programme can be monitored.

Initially used for the treatment of horses, for diagnosis of tendon, hoof and saddle problems, thermal imaging equipment is now applied to a wider range of animals and applications.

Contact-free diagnosis

One reason for the growing popularity of infrared technology is the lack of need to make direct contact with the animal, thereby factoring out any operator risk, patient discomfort or need for sedation.

Radiometric thermal imaging is often used to complement x-ray and other traditional techniques in contributing to medical diagnosis. This is currently applied to a variety of commercial, domestic and zoo animals.

Earlier difficulties associated with the use of thermal imaging in medical applications was due to both the cost of the equipment and lack of understanding of the technology. These issues are now resolved with easier to use, affordable instruments, and better training resources available.