We offer cardiology services to help diagnose and treat diseases of the heart and lungs; aiming to enhance your pet's longevity and quality of life. Annual pet wellness exams are critical to identifying early signs of heart disease. Early detection significantly increases your pet's chances for survival. This is one of the many reasons why an annual check-up is vital for your pet's health.

We use diagnostic imaging as a first step when we suspect a disease or condition. This non-invasive way of gathering information allows our veterinarians to assess the presence, severity, and location of a disease or condition. After diagnosis, our vets will talk to you about the best course of action for your pet.

• Possible symptoms of heart disease:
• Difficulty or fast breathing.
• Coughing (especially for more than 3 days).
• Fainting or collapsing.
• Lethargic with reduced ability to excercise.
• Bloating, swelling, or extension of the abdomen.
• Persistent coughing for more than three days
• Pacing before bedtime.
• Difficulty to sleep at night.
• Sudden shifts in behavior.
• Heart murmur.
• Abnormal heart rate.
• Decreased appetite.
• Weight loss.
• Sudden hind leg paralysis.

HOW DO WE PERFORM CARDIOLOGY DIAGNOSTICS?
The diagnostics vary depending on the situation. The process starts with an examination. After examining your pet, if the veterinarian determines there may be a problem, the vet will select the most appropriate diagnostic tests.

Blood Pressure - Checking blood pressure regularly is essential and is a standard part of every pet wellness exam. High blood pressure can lead to heart failure.

Lab Tests - Blood and urine tests measure things like hormone levels and certain markers. Changes in specific hormones signal heart issues. They also allow other disorders and diseases to be detected.

Digital X-rays - X-rays enable the veterinarian to look at the heart, lungs, and bones. From an X-ray, the vet can detect enlargement of the heart, enlargement of specific heart chambers, or fluid accumulation in the lungs.

EKGs - monitor heart rate and rhythm, helping to detect abnormalities.

Ultrasound - Ultrasounds allow the veterinarian to view a 3-dimensional image of the heart and its chambers. This image allows them to monitor blood flow and check for heart murmurs.

Holter Monitor - a small, wearable device fitted to your pet that records their heart’s electrical rhythm for a 24-hour period. It provides more detailed data over a much longer period of time than an EKG performed in our clinic. It also helps the veterinarian determine the heart rate and rhythm in the less stressful home environment, thus providing a more accurate reading of their condition.