The heart is obviously a vital organ. Proper function is essential to deliver oxygen to tissues throughout the body. When not functioning properly, our dogs and cats becoming rapidly debilitated, and indeed, can die. This week I’ve dedicated some time to explaining a type of severe heart dysfunction called congestive heart failure or CHF. I … [Read more…]
The heart is unquestionably a vital organ. Unfortunately, sometimes it doesn’t develop properly in utero, and these congenital defects can range from minor and inconsequential to life threatening. This week I share information about a relatively common congenital heart defect called subaortic stenosis. Please consider sharing it with other pet parents. Happy reading! Subaortic Stenosis … [Read more…]
People are frequently born with heart defects. They often require intricate and specialized surgeries to help correct them. So too can dogs and cats be affected by congenital heart abnormalities, the most common of which is called patent ductus arteriosus or PDA. This week I share some important information about this serious condition. I hope … [Read more…]
In a previous post, I reviewed pleural space disease. If you recall, these ailments cause fluid and/or air to abnormally accumulate between the lungs and the chest wall. There are many potential reasons for fluid to collect in the pleural space. There are even different types of fluid. This week, I share information about one … [Read more…]
Infective endocarditis. I’m willing to bet many of you have never heard of it. Many pet parents know about heart murmurs and even some heart muscle diseases like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). A lesser known potential cardiac problem is endocarditis or inflammation of part of the heart wall. In this week’s blog I share some insight regarding this … [Read more…]
For many families the mere mention of a murmur or heart disease instills fear, a sincere concern about an illness that could negatively affect their fur baby’s quality of life. In an effort to provide useful information, I’m pleased to welcome another guest blogger, Dr. Kacie Schmitt, a board-certified veterinary cardiologist who will present a two-part series … [Read more…]