Electrocardiograms (ECG/EKG) for Pets in Ft. Lauderdale & South Florida – Dr. Carlos Sandrea

Is your pet experiencing unusual heart rhythms, weakness, or coughing? An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a vital diagnostic tool that can help Dr. Carlos Sandrea assess your pet’s heart health and identify potential cardiac issues. Serving Ft. Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida communities, Dr. Sandrea provides compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care, including advanced diagnostics like ECGs.

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What is an Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)?

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a non-invasive, painless test that records the electrical activity of your pet’s heart. Small sensors, called electrodes, are attached to your pet’s skin, and these sensors detect the tiny electrical impulses generated by the heart muscle. The ECG machine then translates these electrical signals into a visual representation, a graph of waves, which Dr. Sandrea interprets to evaluate the heart’s rhythm, rate, and overall health.

Why Does My Pet Need an ECG?

Dr. Sandrea may recommend an ECG for your pet if they are exhibiting any of the following signs or symptoms:

  • Heart murmurs: An abnormal sound heard when listening to the heart.
  • Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia): A heart that beats too fast, too slow, or irregularly.
  • Weakness or lethargy: Unexplained tiredness or lack of energy.
  • Coughing: Especially if accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty breathing.
  • Fainting or collapse: Episodes of losing consciousness.
  • Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing: Signs of respiratory distress, which can be related to heart problems.
  • Changes in appetite or behavior: Sometimes subtle changes can indicate underlying health issues.
  • Prior to surgery: An ECG may be recommended before anesthesia to assess heart health.
  • Monitoring heart conditions: For pets with diagnosed heart disease, ECGs are used to monitor their condition and adjust treatment as needed.

What to Expect During an ECG:

The ECG procedure is generally quick and well-tolerated by most pets. During the test:

  1. Your pet will be gently positioned, usually lying on their side.
  2. Small areas of fur may be clipped to ensure good contact with the electrodes.
  3. The electrodes will be attached to your pet’s skin using a safe, conductive gel.
  4. The ECG machine will record the electrical activity of the heart.
  5. The entire process typically takes just a few minutes.

Benefits of ECGs for Pets:

  • Early detection of heart problems: ECGs can help identify heart conditions in their early stages, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.
  • Accurate diagnosis: ECGs provide valuable information that helps Dr. Sandrea diagnose a variety of heart conditions, including arrhythmias, heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy), and congenital heart defects.
  • Personalized treatment plans: The results of the ECG help Dr. Sandrea develop a tailored treatment plan to address your pet’s specific heart condition.
  • Improved prognosis: Early diagnosis and treatment of heart disease can significantly improve your pet’s quality of life and prognosis.

Dr. Carlos Sandrea: Your Trusted Partner in Pet Heart Health

Dr. Carlos Sandrea is a dedicated veterinarian with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating heart conditions in pets. He utilizes advanced diagnostic tools like ECGs to provide the highest quality care for your beloved companions in Ft. Lauderdale and the surrounding South Florida area.

Contact Us Today!

If you are concerned about your pet’s heart health or if your pet is exhibiting any of the signs mentioned above, please contact Dr. Carlos Sandrea’s office today to schedule an appointment. We are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive veterinary care for your furry friends.

Serving Ft. Lauderdale and South Florida