Cardiac Ultrasound (Echocardiogram or Echo)

A cardiac ultrasound, also known as an echocardiogram, is a non-invasive technique that allows veterinarians to look at the heart by recording echoes or reflections of ultrasonic waves. Our veterinarians have gone through extensive training to be able to provide you with in-house ultrasonography!

What does a cardiac ultrasound reveal? 

• If your pet has suspected heart disease, a heart murmur, a suspected congenital heart defect, or clinical signs such coughing, shortness of breath, or fainting- an echocardiogram is recommended.
• An echo enables the veterinarian to look and gather information about the function, size, and shape of the four chambers of the heart, the heart valves, heart muscles, and its surrounding structures. It also allows us to see how blood flows through the heart. 
• Measurements taken of the heart enable an individual approach to the patient.
• The results of a cardiac ultrasound let veterinarians tailor medications and treatment for heart disease to your pet. They can also be used to see if treatments are helping or if a change in dosage or new medications are required. 

What does the appointment look like? 

• An echocardiogram is done with the pet lying on an echocardiogram-specific table. 
• The ultrasound probe is then held against the skin where the heart is, and images are reflected back to the ultrasound screen. As hair interferes with the ultrasound waves, some hair is shaved and skin moistened prior to the procedure. 
• As this is a non-invasive technique the procedure is painless. Most pets are comfortable lying on the table with minimal restraint, but some do require sedation. 
• The procedure takes about 60-90 minutes. If your pet was sedated, they will stay a little longer with us as we monitor their recovery. 

Call us today at 403-237-PETS to book an appointment!

Please note that if you're not our client, your veterinarian must send us a referral.