Extend Your Pet’s Lifespan with Early Detection and Treatment
Heart disease in pets, if identified and treated early, can significantly prolong their lives. In fact, with early intervention, many pets can enjoy an additional 2-3 years, which represents up to 20% of their expected lifespan.
At River Park Animal Clinic, we are committed to providing advanced cardiac care to ensure your furry friends live their best, healthiest lives. Our echocardiogram services are performed by board-certified radiologist and reviewed by cardiologist. Which allows us to detect and treat heart conditions with precision and care.
Success Story: Astro’s Journey to a Healthier Heart
Meet Astro, a 5-year-old American Shorthair cat whose heart health transformation highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. During his annual exam, Dr. Luo detected a grade 3 heart murmur, which prompted a recommendation for an echocardiogram. This diagnostic tool revealed severe left ventricular outflow obstruction with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy and systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve.
Without treatment, Astro faced the risk of heart failure within 2-3 years. Fortunately, with prompt medical intervention and a 3-week course of medication, the results were remarkable. The transaortic velocities improved drastically and normalized, systemic anterior motion was no longer noted, and mitral regurgitation resolved. Thanks to early detection and effective treatment, Astro can now look forward to a normal lifespan with treatment and a healthy future.
How Echocardiograms Benefit Your Pet
An echocardiogram is a crucial tool in diagnosing and managing heart conditions in pets. Here’s how it can help:
- Diagnose and Evaluate Heart Conditions: Identify issues such as heart murmurs, valve disease, and congenital heart defects.
- Determine the Source of Heart Murmurs or Arrhythmias: Pinpoint the underlying cause of irregular heart sounds or rhythms.
- Assess Clinical Signs: Determine if symptoms like weakness, collapse, or labored breathing are related to heart disease.
- Monitor Treatment Progress: Track the effectiveness of treatment plans in pets with known heart conditions.