Why is Pet Heart Health Important?

Similar to the importance of a healthy heart in humans, maintaining optimal heart health is fundamental for the overall well-being of our furry companions. A healthy heart not only supports physical vitality but also contributes to their mental and emotional welfare, enabling them to lead active, happy lives.

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Gold Standard Detection & Management: 

Prioritize your pet's heart health through proactive measures and informed decision-making with the following guidelines:

Regular Vet Visits‍

Biannual wellness exams, especially for senior pets, aid in the early detection and management of heart issues. During these check-ups, your Dr. Treat vet will listen to your pet's heart and inquire about their exercise habits, as well as any observed coughing or breathing difficulties.

Screening Heart Tests‍

Your vet may recommend heart-specific tests such as ECGs, X-rays, or echocardiograms, especially if your pet is at risk or if an abnormality is detected. Senior pets should undergo at least yearly ECGs to evaluate underlying disease, and all pets scheduled for anesthesia must have a pre-procedure ECG to ensure a healthy heart. ECGs record the heart’s electrical activity and can detect arrhythmias, providing crucial insights into both the heart's electrical function and non-cardiac health.

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Heartworm Prevention is Key‍

Prioritize heartworm prevention and general parasite control; this is crucial, as mosquitoes transmit heartworm, which can be fatal. Ensure annual heartworm testing and retest after any break in prevention, as restarting with an active infection can be deadly.

Healthy Diet‍

Feed your pet a balanced diet appropriate for their age, breed, and health condition. Ask your vet for diet recommendations, particularly if your pet has heart issues. Omega-3 fatty acids can benefit the heart and be easily incorporated into the diet.

Stay Active‍

Ensure your pet maintains a healthy weight and cardiovascular fitness through regular exercise. If you observe signs such as reduced exercise tolerance, labored breathing during activity, or episodes of collapse, these could indicate heart disease and warrant immediate evaluation by a Dr. Treat veterinarian.

Follow Medication Guidelines‍

If your pet has been diagnosed with a heart condition, it's crucial to adhere to the prescribed medication regimen. Additionally, follow your Dr. Treat veterinarian's recommendations regarding recheck appointments and chronic medication monitoring tests, such as bloodwork, is equally important.

Educate Yourself‍

Read up on pet heart health so you can make informed decisions about their care.

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Keep in mind that these guidelines are general, and your pet's individual needs may differ. It is essential to consistently follow your Dr. Treat veterinarian's advice to ensure the most effective treatment plan.

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