Cardiology

Our cardiologist will work with you and your regular veterinarian to provide the comprehensive care your pet needs.

A variety of cardiovascular conditions and diseases can affect veterinary patients, including heart failure, valve problems, and high blood pressure. While some cardiac conditions may be serious, many heart diseases are manageable on an outpatient basis and allow for a good quality of life. Early diagnosis and effective treatment can lead to a longer and happier life for your pet.

Pets that exhibit any of the following symptoms may benefit from a cardiac evaluation:

• Heart murmur

• Shortness of breath or breathing problems

• Cough

• Heart arrhythmia (irregular heart beat)

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Congenital heart defects

• Fainting

• Fluid accumulation in the chest or abdomen

• Exercise intolerance

Pets at risk for anesthesia may also be evaluated by our cardiologist to develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

Diseases & Conditions Treated

• Cardiac arrhythmias

• Congestive heart failure

• Degenerative mitral valve disease

• Dilated cardiomyopathy

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

• Hypertension

• Cardiac tumors

• Pulmonary hypertension

• Congenital heart disease, including patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and pulmonary stenosis

Diagnostics

• Blood pressure

• Echocardiogram

• Electrocardiogram (EKG)

• Holter monitoring

• Chest x-rays

• Computed tomography (CT)

• Monitoring of kidney values and electrolytes

• Work-up in preparation for mitral valve repair

• Breed screening for OFA certification

Helpful Links

Orthopedic Foundation for Animals

OFA Cardiac Congenital Disease Database

American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine