Veterinary Specialty Care? Is Never More Important Than When It's For Someone Very Special
Cardiology
At Dogs & Cats Veterinary Referral specialized cardiology services are available to accurately diagnose and treat your pet’s heart disease. This service is provided by Dr. Luis Braz-Ruivo, DVM, DVSc, Diplomate ACVIM (Cardiology). Dr. Braz-Ruivo is assisted by Linda, cardiology technician, who you will meet during the visit. Linda is an integral part of the cardiology service, she will be able to help you with most of your questions and concerns and will be available for any questions that may arise.
At DCVR we use only the most advanced equipment to diagnose your pet’s heart disease. During your pet’s visit we are able to provide a complete diagnostic work-up including ECG by Schiller, thoracic radiography, blood pressure by Cardell and Parks Medical, echocardiography (transthoracic and transesophageal) by Phillips, and 24 hour Holter ECG by Rozinn. Not all tests are needed for all patients, Dr. Braz-Ruivo will discuss with you which tests are indicated to best diagnose your pet’s heart disease.
A vet visit is sometimes a stressful event for you and your pet. That’s why we invite pet owners to be present during the examination and performance of the tests (except x-rays). Sedation, although not a part of our standard protocol it is sometimes necessary to help obtain the best test results. Today’s sedative options are very safe for your pet’s heart; Dr. Braz-Ruivo will inform you of the need for sedation if needed, and can discuss any concerns you may have.
At the end of the visit you receive a personalized report of the findings and treatment recommendations. Follow-up recommendations and prognosis will be discussed with you. Your family veterinarian will receive a faxed report immediately at the end of the visit.
In addition to the services mentioned above we also provide specialized therapies for your pet such as pacemaker implantation, cardiac catheterization (selective or non-selective), cardiac surgery for treatment of pericardial effusion and some cardiac tumors or correction of congenital heart defects.
Because we work with a team of veterinary specialist, when needed we can closely consult with other specialist in the areas of internal medicine, neurology and surgery to offer you a complete solution
