Cardiology
 Dr. Matt Milller (left) and Dr. Chris Paige (right) perform a cardiac catheterization procedure in our new cardiac catheterization lab to occlude a patent ductus arteriosus, a congenital heart defect, in a German Shepherd puppy. |
Heart disease in dogs and cats can either be congenital (they were born with it) or acquired (the disease develops over time). In many cases animals with heart disease that is diagnosed early have a chance of living several years with either type of condition depending on the severity of their disease.
Some reasons a dog or cat may need a cardiology consultation include:
- Acute or chronic coughing;
- Exercise intolerance;
- Rapid or difficulty breathing; and
- Weakness or collapse.
During a cardiology consultation, the veterinarian may order advanced laboratory testing, evaluate the patient’s blood pressure, perform non-invasive tests such as electrocardiography or echocardiography, or take radiographs. Depending on the diagnosis, the veterinarian may recommend medical therapy (medications) with continued follow up care.
If you think your pet needs a cardiology consultation, please call VETMED today to make an appointment.
Heart Disease Specialist
Dr. Chris Paige and Dr. Matt Miller are the primary heart disease specialists at VETMED. To perform veterinary cardiology, Dr. Chris Paige and Dr. Matt Miller have completed a three-year residency program after earning a doctorate of veterinary medicine. They have met specific training and caseload requirements, performed research and had research published.