Does your canine friend seem to have a little less energy than before? Have you noticed a cough that doesn't go away? If so, your friend may be among the 3.2 million dogs in the United States with some form of heart failure. This means that 1 in 10 dogs is struggling with a less than healthy heart.
The good news is that with the use of heart specific medications many dogs with heart failure can lead a normal life. Our veterinarians can examine your dog for signs of heart disease and if indicated, suggest blood or urine tests, x-rays, ECG, or cardiac ultrasound. These tests along with a thorough physical will help us determine if heart disease is present, and if so what medications would be beneficial. The key is early detection. Medications are much more effective early in the course of heart disease. This, along with the fact that many dogs with early heart disease exhibit no outward signs make routine annual physical examinations very important.
Sign of Heart Disease
- Lower energy
- Coughing
- Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Abdominal swelling and possible weight gain
- Weakness
- Fainting
- Labored breathing
If your pet is showing any of these signs a physical exam would be very important.
Call Alexandria Veterinary Clinic PetCare Center at 320-762-8112 or 800-642-6263.
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