Cardiology For Pets at Ivy Lodge Vets
At Ivy Lodge Vets in Greater Romford and Brentwood, we provide specialised cardiology for pets services to ensure your pet’s heart health is thoroughly assessed and monitored. Our dedicated team, led by Ellie, offers cardiac scans and expert care to help pets with heart conditions live healthier, more comfortable lives.
Meet Our Cardiology Specialist – Ellie
Ellie joined the veterinary profession in 2021 after graduating from Nottingham University with a BVMedSci degree and a BVM BVS degree. She began her career at a busy first-opinion small animal hospital, where her passion for cardiology flourished. Ellie completed a practical small animal echocardiography course with Nottingham University and aims to further specialise in cardiology through a postgraduate certificate.
Ellie’s experience and dedication to heart health make her the perfect specialist to provide cardiac scans for pets at Ivy Lodge Vets. She is skilled in diagnosing heart conditions and helping pet owners manage their pets’ heart health.
Why Are Cardiac Scans Important?
Heart conditions in pets, such as heart murmurs, can often go unnoticed until symptoms become severe. Regular cardiac scans allow us to detect heart abnormalities early, giving us a chance to intervene with appropriate treatments before the condition progresses.
If your pet has been diagnosed with a heart murmur, or if they are showing signs of heart disease (such as coughing, lethargy, or difficulty breathing), a cardiac scan can provide vital information to help manage their condition. By visualising the heart’s structure and function, we can determine if treatment is necessary and monitor the progression of the disease over time.
What Does a Cardiac Scan Involve?
A cardiac scan is a non-invasive procedure that uses ultrasound technology to create a detailed image of your pet’s heart. This allows Ellie to assess the heart’s size, structure, and functionality. The process is safe and painless, providing valuable insights into your pet’s heart health.
Here’s What You Can Expect During a Cardiac Scan:
- Admission Appointment: Your pet will be admitted to the clinic in the morning for an appointment with either our veterinary surgeon or veterinary nurse. During this time, we will ensure your pet is comfortable and relaxed.
- Clipping for Ultrasound: A small patch of fur on your pet’s chest will be clipped to improve the quality of the ultrasound image.
- Sedation (If Necessary): If your pet is anxious or wriggly, a small amount of sedation may be administered to help them stay calm and still during the scan. This ensures we can obtain the clearest possible images of their heart.
- The Scan: Ellie will use ultrasound waves to visualise your pet’s heart. This allows her to measure the heart’s size, assess its structure, and check for any abnormalities. The scan is a key tool in diagnosing heart murmurs and other cardiac issues.
- Results and Treatment Plan: Based on the scan results, Ellie will determine whether your pet requires further treatment. If medication is needed to support their heart health, we will discuss the best options with you and ensure you have a clear plan moving forward.
Post-Scan Care
After the scan, your pet will be kept in the clinic for observation and care. Once the procedure is complete, you’ll receive a phone call to arrange collection. Our team will discuss the results of the scan with you and provide any necessary post-scan instructions. If your pet requires medication, we will provide full details on how to administer it at home.
Heart Disease in Pets
Heart disease is a common issue in both dogs and cats, especially as they age. Early detection and intervention are key to managing heart conditions and ensuring your pet can continue living a happy, active life. Some of the most common signs of heart disease include:
- Persistent coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue or reluctance to exercise
- Fainting or collapsing
- Swollen abdomen (due to fluid buildup)
If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it’s important to seek veterinary advice. A cardiac scan is one of the most effective ways to diagnose heart conditions and monitor the health of your pet’s heart.
Pricing for Cardiac Scans
At Ivy Lodge Vets, we offer comprehensive cardiac scans for £250. This price does not include sedation or any medications that may be required following the scan. Our team will keep you informed of any additional costs and ensure you understand all aspects of your pet’s care.
Why Choose Ivy Lodge Vets for Cardiology?
At Ivy Lodge Vets, we are committed to providing high-quality cardiology services to pets in Greater Romford and Brentwood. With Ellie’s expertise and compassionate care, we ensure that every pet receives a thorough and accurate heart assessment. Our goal is to detect and manage heart conditions early, helping your pet live a long, healthy life.
Contact Us Today to learn more about Cardiology for Pets
If your pet has been diagnosed with a heart murmur or is showing signs of heart disease, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team at Ivy Lodge Vets is here to help with cardiac scans and expert advice on managing your pet’s heart health. Book an appointment today to ensure your pet receives the best possible care.