Cardiology

Cardiology is the branch of medicine that treats diseases of the cardiovascular system, which includes the heart and blood vessels. This encompasses such problems as congestive heart failure, hypertension, dilated and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and valvular disorders. Because the function of the heart and lungs are interrelated, veterinary cardiologists are also knowledgeable about lung disease as well as diseases of the chest cavity. Specialty accreditation is granted by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

A general practice veterinarian may simply consult with a BrightHeart specialist about a pet’s care, or it may be necessary to actually refer the pet for more advanced diagnostics and treatment, since veterinary cardiologists at BrightHeart hospitals may have access to specialized diagnostic or treatment tools that a general practice veterinarian may not have.

Signs of Heart Trouble

• Weakness
• Exercise intolerance
• Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing (due to fluid in the lungs or chest cavity)
• Fast breathing at rest (although don’t confuse this with normal panting)
• Collapse
• Fainting spells
• Cough
• Elevated heart rate