Veterinary Cardiology Specialists with Heart
Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies is partnering with Petcardia to provide the best cardiac care for your pets.
Veterinary Specialists of the Rockies is proud to have board certified veterinary cardiologist Dr. Kendra LaFauci of Petcardia Veterinary Cardiology as part of our team. Petcardia was built on the belief that each client deserves individualized attention and every pet patient deserves personalized, compassionate care. LEARN MORE ABOUT PETCARDIA
Dr. LaFauci understands that our dogs and cats show us lots of love and she is here to ensure that they receive the comprehensive cardiac care they deserve. LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. LAFAUCI
FAMILY VETERINARY REFERRALS
Your family vet may recommend a cardiac evaluation if they:
- Detect a heart murmur
- Discover an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
- Are concerned about a congenital heart defect
- Diagnose high blood pressure
- Are concerned about Canine Nutritional Dilated Cardiomyopathy due to a grain-free diet and/or other circumstances
- Find other outward signs of heart disease
They may also recommend a cardiology evaluation prior to surgery to determine if your pet’s heart is healthy enough to tolerate anesthesia.
SYMPTOMS OF HEART DISEASE
Our pets often hide signs of heart disease until the advanced stages. Some heart diseases can be life-threatening and knowing the warning signs can make a big difference in getting your pet the help they need in a timely fashion. Common signs of heart disease include:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing at rest
- Tiring easily with activity
- Weakness, collapse, fainting
- Persistent/progressive cough
- Abdominal swelling/distension
- Change in body weight
- Restlessness or hiding
- Loss of appetite
Cardiology Exams with Petcardia
Using the most advanced imaging technology available, Petcardia’s board certified cardiologists are able to acquire the most accurate information possible in order to create an individualized therapy plan for your pet.
Initial cardiology consultations include:
- Examination
- Blood pressure check
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart)
- Discussion of diagnosis and treatment options
Additional diagnostics such as radiography and 24-hour Holter monitor are available, when necessary.
Both you and your family vet will receive an in-depth written report that includes medical recommendations, specific treatment plans and ongoing support and monitoring timelines. Dr. LaFauci and the Petcardia team will explain your pet’s diagnosis and recommended care plan, and work closely with your family veterinarian to provide the best level of care possible for your pet. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of heart disease your pet could live a longer, happier life with your family.