If your veterinarian has detected a heart murmur or suspects heart disease, you likely have questions about what it means and what comes next. Lancaster Veterinary Specialties provides cardiology evaluation and ongoing management for dogs and cats with suspected or diagnosed heart conditions.
Many heart problems can be evaluated safely and comfortably using non-invasive testing performed in our hospital. Our goal is to clearly identify what is happening, determine the stage of disease, and develop a treatment plan that supports both longevity and day-to-day comfort.
From newly discovered murmurs to advanced congestive heart failure, we help families understand the diagnosis and guide care at every step.
Your primary veterinarian may recommend a cardiology evaluation when they detect changes in heart sounds or when a pet shows symptoms that could be related to heart disease.
Pets are commonly referred for:
Many heart conditions can be evaluated without surgery or sedation. Diagnostics may include echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) or ECG to assess heart structure, rhythm, and function.
When additional detail is needed, advanced imaging such as CT or angiography provides a clearer view of cardiac anatomy and blood vessels. These tools help guide precise treatment planning.
Many heart diseases are managed over time. We provide ongoing monitoring and tailored treatment plans focused on maintaining circulation, reducing symptoms, and supporting long-term quality of life.
Not necessarily. A murmur indicates abnormal blood flow within the heart, but an echocardiogram is needed to determine whether structural heart disease is present and how significant it is.
An echocardiogram is a painless ultrasound of the heart that evaluates chamber size, valve function, blood flow, and contractility. It is one of the most important tools for diagnosing heart disease.
Some congenital conditions can be corrected or controlled long-term, but many acquired heart diseases are managed rather than cured. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve both lifespan and comfort.
