Cardiology

Our office is dedicated to providing pets with compassionate care. In offering cardiology services, we can better evaluate and treat heart and lung diseases, working towards improving quality of life. Annual pet wellness exams enable our staff to detect early indicators of heart disease that could potentially save your pet’s life – just one more reason why an annual check-up is important for your pet’s well-being.

Diagnostic imaging is initially used when a disease or condition is suspected. This non-invasive method of obtaining information allows our veterinarian to determine existence, severity, and location of a condition or disease. After diagnosis, our physicians will discuss with you the best plan of action for your pet.

Possible indications of heart disease: 

• Coughing that lasts longer than three days.
• Inability or refusal to sleep at night.
• Shortness of breath, wheezing, or rapid breathing. 
• Sudden changes in pet behavior and an inclination to isolate themselves. 
• Sudden episodes of fainting, or unexplained collapses. 
• Swelling in the abdomen.

What do cardiology diagnostics involve?

Diagnostics could involve a variety of different procedures. Upon examining your pet, the veterinarian will decide which method is necessary under the circumstances.

Digital X-rays – X-rays allow the veterinarian to examine the heart, lungs, and bones. From an X-ray, your pet’s veterinarian can determine enlargement of the heart or fluid build-up in the lungs. 

ECGs – An ECG allows the veterinarian to monitor heart rate and rhythm, allowing for detection of abnormalities. We are able to take ECG readings in house and submit them to a board-certified cardiologist for evaluation who will diagnose the condition and provide a treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the condition, we can receive a report immediately if needed or up to 24 hours later for routine cases.

Echocardiogram – Echocardiograms are ultrasounds of the heart and they let the veterinarian evaluate in real time, the size, shape, and integrity of the heart and its chambers. It also allows for measurements of blood flow and pressures throughout the heart. We are able to provide this service by enlisting the help of a local board-certified cardiologist. If this service is needed, he will travel to our hospital with his equipment to evaluate your pet.