Our veterinarians listen closely at every exam to screen for any murmurs, abnormal rhythms, or abnormal respiratory sounds. If detected, further diagnostics such as bloodwork, blood pressure readings, ECG, chest x-rays, and/or heart ultrasound (echocardiography performed in house with Dr. Brown) will be recommended. Remote consult with a Board-Certified cardiologist may be utilized for interpretation of diagnostics and a recommended treatment plan.
For emergent cases, such as congestive heart failure, medical therapy will be initiated immediately. Using our ultrasound, we can perform some emergency procedures such as drawing fluid off the chest or from around the heart.
Once a diagnosis is reached, medical therapy is initiated for many heart conditions. We will refer pets with a critical heart condition or one requiring advanced care to a cardiologist.
