Dog Cardiology Services in Stockton, CA

Dog cardiology is a specialized field of veterinary medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating heart conditions in dogs. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from a variety of heart problems, including:

Congenital heart defects: These are heart problems that a dog is born with.

Acquired heart diseases: These develop later in life, often due to factors such as infection, inflammation, or aging.

Common Heart Conditions in Dogs

Valvular Heart Disease: This is the most common heart disease in dogs, affecting the heart valves.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy: This condition causes the heart muscle to weaken and enlarge.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: This condition causes the heart muscle to thicken, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively.

Signs of Heart Disease in Dogs

Coughing: A persistent cough, especially at night.

Difficulty Breathing: Shortness of breath, especially during exercise.

Fatigue: Lethargy and decreased energy levels.

Fainting or Collapsing: Sudden loss of consciousness.

Abdominal Swelling: Fluid buildup in the abdomen.

Diagnosing Heart Disease in Dogs

Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination to assess the heart rate, rhythm, and any abnormal sounds.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures the electrical activity of the heart.

Chest X-rays: To assess the size and shape of the heart and lungs.

Echocardiogram: Uses ultrasound to visualize the heart's structure and function.

Blood Tests: To evaluate overall health and identify any underlying conditions.

Treating Heart Disease in Dogs

Treatment for heart disease varies depending on the specific condition and its severity. It may include:

Medication: To manage symptoms and slow disease progression.

Dietary Changes: A special diet may be recommended to reduce the workload on the heart.

Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise and weight management can help improve heart health.

Surgical Intervention: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a heart defect or implant a pacemaker.

Testimonial

What They Say

I called Walker Veterinary Hospital at 7:30 in the morning because my fur baby needed an urgent procedure, they fit me in same day within an hour or so of calling and from the moment I walked through those doors I was met with such compassion and kindness. It was such a scary and uncertain time but Dr. Hung and everybody I encountered was kind and knowledgeable and honestly exactly what I needed! My baby is on her road to recovery because of the excellent and timely care she received and I will FOREVER be grateful for them, Doctor called the morning after the procedure to check on her recovery and I just cannot express how much it means to know my girl was in the hands of someone so caring!

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Jenn C

The worst day of our life happened… our boxer Bo’s life came to an end, he was unable to walk anymore. He could barely breathe, and it was time we went to Walker vet, and they took care of things. Someone was really paying attention because they realize the level of grief we were experiencing today in the mail unexpectedly, we received a pair of paw prints Words cannot express how heartfelt this is.

Lauren Johnson

This site saved my dog’s life. My ESA and best friend was limping one day and we went to another site around town, and they prescribed him carprofen. It made things worse. We went to get a second opinion as things worsened at Walker. The doctor walked through symptoms with us, had me feel the lymph nodes in his back leg, and he was diagnosed with Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA). We don’t know what caused it but his body was destroying its own red blood cells. After this was identified he was put on steroids and antibiotics and he is in full recovery! He is back to his normal personality. I owe everything to Walker’s staff for saving my buddy.

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Cody Eliff

We visited Walker Vet because we heard Dr. Hung was familiar with FIP in cats. Her knowledge, and her care, put us at ease and saved our cat’s life. She explained the details to us like a friend. She was genuinely concerned about his life, and helping us to build a strong at-home care regimen. The front office staff is professional and friendly. They operate smoothly and support the doctors well. Of my many phone calls, even on very busy days, I never received any attitude. Just good people helping other people and their pets.

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Randy

My dog has always received the best care from Dr. Connie. My boy can be a handful at times, and Dr. Connie is always very patient with him, as well as with me, in answering all my questions and concerns regarding my fur baby's care. All the staff have always treated us with respect and care. I recommend Wallker Vet, especially Dr. Connie, to all my friends and family! Thank you for all your care, Dr. Connie! We appreciate you.