Get to the heart of the matter

Similar to human medicine, a veterinary cardiologist is a specialist trained to diagnose and treat heart conditions in animals. Board certified veterinary cardiologists receive several years of advanced training in a residency program and pass extensive certifying examinations after graduating from veterinary school. A veterinary cardiologist can help provide the best care for animals with heart disease, but they do not offer all of the services of a primary veterinarian. For this reason, it is important to continue to see your local veterinarian for preventative care and other health concerns.

Just like people, animals can get heart disease. About 1 in 10 dogs have heart disease and up to 1 in 6 cats have heart disease. Heart disease is more common in some breeds of cats and dogs, so routine screening may be recommended. Heart disease can be present at birth (congenital) or can happen in older pets. Early diagnosis and treatment of heart disease can help your pet live a longer and more active life.

Mobile consultations are available at local veterinary clinics. During these consultations, Dr. Maisenbacher reviews your pet’s records, performs a physical exam, echocardiogram and any other necessary tests. The findings and recommendations are discussed directly with your veterinarian and a complete report is provided. Your veterinarian will then discuss the treatment plan with you and will continue to manage the care of your pet with assistance from Dr. Maisenbacher as needed. Due to state laws governing the practice of veterinary medicine, Dr. Maisenbacher cannot make specific treatment recommendations to pet owners or prescribe medications during mobile consultations. Mobile consultations must be scheduled through your primary veterinarian’s office.

Veterinary Heart Care (VHC) is a small specialty practice with just one veterinarian. As such, it is geared towards efficiency, comfort, empathy and compassion for both you and your pet. We know that your pet is a loved member of your family, therefore we strive to provide the best care through either mobile consultations or traditional appointments. VHC works with your local veterinarian to diagnose and treat your pet with heart disease. We are able to perform specialized cardiovascular diagnostic tests and treatments that may not typically be available at your local veterinarian making cardiac specialty medicine accessible to all animals.

Signs that your pet might have heart disease include: coughing, rapid and difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, low energy, abdominal swelling, weakness or fainting. Sometimes your local veterinarian can hear a heart murmur without other signs of heart disease.

Traditional referral appointments are available weekly in Virginia Beach at BluePearl. During these appointments Dr. Maisenbacher will review your pet’s medical history, perform a physical exam and recommended tests often including an echocardiogram. He will discuss the results of all tests directly with you to determine the best treatment plan for you and your pet. Dr. Maisenbacher will manage the care of your pet’s heart disease, often prescribing medications, and will collaborate with your veterinarian throughout your pet’s care.