Cardiology

We are proud to provide the only veterinary cardiology department in New Mexico with care provided by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist. We provide state of the art diagnostic and therapeutic options for pets with heart disease including echocardiography, ECG, and interventional procedures. We work closely with your pet’s primary veterinarian to provide optimal treatment for your pet’s heart disease.

What Is Veterinary Cardiology?

Veterinary cardiology is a branch of internal medicine that focuses on diseases of the heart and blood vessels. This includes congenital and acquired heart disease as well as abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and pulmonary hypertension. Many pets with heart disease are asymptomatic and appropriate treatment can increase life expectancy.

Why See a Veterinary Cardiologist?

A veterinary cardiologist is a licensed veterinarian who has completed an intensive residency in cardiology and has been certified by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. A veterinary cardiologist is best able to diagnose heart disease in animals and to provide treatment and follow-up recommendations. A benefit of seeing a veterinary cardiologist is getting face-to-face explanation of your pet’s heart disease and what to monitor for as well as the ability to contact them if your pet’s condition is worsening.

When Should My Pet Be Referred to a Cardiologist?

Common reasons for referral include a heart murmur (abnormal sound when listening to the heart), arrhythmia (heart rhythm that is too fast or too slow) or symptoms that may suggest heart disease such as trouble breathing, exercise intolerance, weakness, coughing, or collapse episodes. Cardiac referrals are often recommended prior to anesthetic procedures (such as dental procedures).

Our Cardiology Department Services

• Echocardiography
• Electrocardiogram
• Blood pressure
• 24-hour holter monitor
• Pacemaker implantation
• PDA occlusion
• Balloon valvuloplasty

Will My Regular Veterinarian Still Be Involved?

In most circumstances, your regular veterinarian will still supervise your pet's veterinary care. In other cases, your referral doctor may take over the majority of your pet's medical care. It depends on your pet's particular disease and condition.

Did You Know?

According to the AVMA, one out of every 10 dogs and cats has heart disease. Many pets with heart disease are asymptomatic.

If you suspect that your dog or cat has a heart problem, contact our hospital's veterinary cardiologists today.