Cardiology
Veterinary Heart Care in McDonough, GA
At The Healthy Pet Veterinary Clinic, we know the importantance your pet’s heart health. Our team has access to specialized veterinary cardiology services for both dogs and cats at our Westridge and Ola locations in McDonough, GA. With advanced diagnostic options like echocardiograms, we are able to identify and manage heart conditions early, helping your pet live a longer and healthier life. If you are concerned about your pet’s heart health, call us today or schedule an appointment online.
Why is Cardiology Important for Dogs and Cats?
Heart disease can affect pets of any age or breed, and early detection is key to managing it successfully. Specialized veterinary heart care allows us to find problems before they become emergencies, guide safer anesthesia for surgeries, and tailor treatment plans that extend both lifespan and quality of life. By focusing on proactive testing and early intervention, we can help prevent sudden complications and keep your pet’s heart as healthy as possible.
When to See a Veterinary Cardiologist:
When should my pet be evaluated by a cardiologist?
We recommend scheduling a cardiology workup if we detects a heart murmur, irregular heartbeat, or other changes on an X-ray or ECG. Symptoms like persistent coughing, fainting, or reduced stamina could also signal the need for advanced vet heart care.
What are the early signs of heart disease in dogs and cats?
- Frequent coughing
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing at rest
- Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
- Fainting or collapsing episodes
- Loss of appetite or weight loss (especially in cats)
Even subtle signs should not be ignored, as heart disease can progress silently until it becomes severe.
Which breeds are at higher risk for heart disease and should be screened?
- Small dogs such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus and Dachshunds often develop valve disease. But all small dogs are considered higher risk.
- Large dogs, including Dobermans, Boxers, and Great Danes may develop cardiomyopathy.
- Cats, particularly breeds like Maine Coon, Ragdoll, and British Shorthair, are more prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Regular checkups and early screening for at-risk breeds give us the best chance to catch problems early.
Cardiology Diagnostics We Perform:
At our clinics in McDonough, we use advanced tools to evaluate heart health:
- Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart, usually no sedation needed)
- ECG to assess electrical rhythm and detect arrhythmias
- Chest X-rays to view the heart and lungs
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Comprehensive lab work to assess overall health
What happens during a pet echocardiogram at a cardiology visit?
This noninvasive procedure uses ultrasound to create a moving picture of your pet’s heart. We measure chamber sizes, valve function, and blood flow, providing real-time results during your visit. Most pets remain calm throughout, and sedation is often not required. Once complete, we’ll review the findings with you and outline the next steps in care.
What lifestyle habits help prevent heart disease in pets?
Keeping your pet’s heart strong starts with preventive care. Helpful habits include:
- Year-round heartworm prevention
- Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and exercise
- Regular dental care to reduce strain on the heart
- Routine checkups to identify issues early
By combining these daily habits with annual wellness exams, you can greatly reduce your pet’s risk of heart disease.
How much does a dog or cat echocardiogram cost?
At The Healthy Pet Veterinary Clinic, we are committed to transparency and will provide an estimate before any procedure is performed. Many pet insurance plans cover cardiology diagnostics, and financing options may be available. Contact us for today’s pricing and to discuss the best plan for your pet.
Why choose The Healthy Pet Veterinary Clinic for your pet’s cardiology appointment?
- Two convenient McDonough locations: Westridge and Ola
- Focused exclusively on dogs and cats
- Advanced diagnostics, including echocardiograms
- Compassionate, community-driven vet care
- Trusted reputation across McDonough and Henry County
Schedule Your Pet’s Cardiology Appointment in McDonough, GA
At The Healthy Pet Veterinary Clinic, we are proud to provide comprehensive pet cardiology services in McDonough, GA. From advanced diagnostics to ongoing management, our team is here to support your pet’s heart health with skill and compassion. Contact our Westridge or Ola location today, or schedule your appointment online to give your pet the best in veterinary heart care.