If your dog has been diagnosed with a heart murmur or is showing signs like fatigue, fainting, or trouble during exercise, pulmonic stenosis could be the underlying cause. This congenital heart condition is one of the most common in dogs—and while it can be mild...
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is one of the most frequently diagnosed congenital heart defects in dogs—and one of the few that can be completely corrected with timely treatment. While this condition starts as a simple failure of a fetal blood vessel to close, its consequences...
A seemingly harmless heart murmur could be the first sign of a life-threatening condition called subaortic stenosis in dogs. Subaortic stenosis (SAS) is a serious congenital heart condition that primarily affects large and giant dog breeds. Though it may go unnoticed at first, early signs—like...
Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to structural abnormalities of the heart or major blood vessels that develop before birth. Some defects cause no clinical signs, while others can lead to heart failure, exercise intolerance, or sudden cardiac events. So, without further ado, here is what...
The thought of a pacemaker often brings to mind human heart health, but did you know that pacemakers can also save the lives of pets? These remarkable devices are used in veterinary medicine to treat life-threatening heart rhythm disorders. Here’s a closer look at when...
When it comes to our pets' heart health, sometimes we need more than just a stethoscope. A Holter monitor is a powerful diagnostic tool that allows veterinarians to look beyond the clinic and gain a deeper understanding of your dog’s heart rhythm over 24 to...
Heart disease in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from genetic predispositions to lifestyle and environmental influences. Here’s an overview of some common causes of heart disease in dogs: 1. Genetics Many heart diseases in dogs are inherited, meaning certain breeds are more...
As awareness of holistic and integrative care for pets grows, more pet owners are turning to natural supplements to support their pets' heart health. While these supplements can play a beneficial role, it's important to remember that they should be used as part of a...
Cardiac cachexia is a serious and often overlooked condition that can develop in dogs and cats with advanced heart disease. Characterized by significant weight loss and muscle wasting, this syndrome is particularly challenging because it involves complex metabolic changes that go beyond mere reductions in...
An echocardiogram, commonly referred to as an "echo," is a crucial diagnostic tool used to evaluate the heart health of your pet. It provides detailed images of the heart's structure and function, helping veterinarians diagnose and manage heart conditions. If your pet is scheduled for...