“Thank goodness your clinic is open 24 hours! I am extremely impressed with your clinic and the vets. It’s wonderful to have someone answer my questions about procedures, options, and fees beforehand. I especially like that the vet or technician performs a follow-up call! Often times, I have questions I forgot to ask during the appointment, so the availability of staff is appreciated.” Joanne Chan, Orangevale
Cardiology for Dogs & Cats with Heart Disease
Cardiology is the medical specialty dealing with disorders of the heart. Veterinarians specializing in this field are called cardiologists. The field includes diagnosis and treatment of congenital heart diseases, heart failure, and valvular heart disease.
Dogs and cats with heart disease may have symptoms that you may not think are related to the heart, such as lack of appetite, malaise, or fainting spells. Other pets may have no signs and are diagnosed with heart disease when there are abnormal conditions found in a physical examination such as rapid heart rate or a heart murmur.
If your pet has heart disease, it is important to obtain an exact diagnosis so that the proper treatment can be started. At Loomis Basin Veterinary Clinic, we have on-site board-certified cardiologists, Dr.Brian MacKie and Dr. Lori Siemens. A veterinary cardiologist has had advanced training in diseases of the cardiovascular system and is the best doctor to provide the diagnosis, treatment, and answers to any questions that you may have.
Your Pet’s Cardiology Appointment
Although it can be emotionally difficult to learn about your beloved pet’s heart disease, it is important for you to know the facts so that you can provide the best treatment possible. Sometimes the diagnosis is much better news than expected. Appointments nearly always consist of a physical exam and an echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart.
Your veterinarian, veterinary cardiologist, and you will form a team and work together on behalf of your pet. This will ensure that you are able to spend as much quality time as possible with your beloved companion.
The materials offered on this website are intended for educational purposes only. Loomis Basin Veterinary Clinic does not provide veterinary medical services or guidance via the internet. Please consult your veterinarian in matters regarding the care of your animal.
