Expert Cardiology Care in Westminster
Although your family veterinarian can diagnose and treat many problems very well, there are some conditions that require advanced diagnostics and care in order to optimize the outcome for your pet.
Our board-certified cardiologist is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular (heart and vessels) disease in cats and dogs.
This includes such disorders as congestive heart failure, mitral valve disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, degenerative valve disease, systemic hypertension, arrhythmias, restrictive cardiomyopathy and cardiac tumors.
We offer same-day or next-day veterinary care so that pets in need do not have to wait to be seen by a cardiologist. No referral is required.
Dr. Loyer believes that by working closely with pet owners and their primary care veterinarians the best possible health outcomes can be achieved for pets suffering from a range of cardiac conditions.
Veterinary Cardiology Specialist in Westminster
Dr. Carroll Loyer has seen more than 20,000 cardiology patients and performed over 13,000 ultrasound examinations. His specialized care is only provided at Choice Veterinary Specialists where he is able to build long-term relationships with clients and monitor their pet's health throughout their lifetime to meet their needs at every stage.
Veterinary Cardiology FAQs
Here we answer some of the most commonly asked questions about cardiology appointments at our clinic:
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Why does my pet need to see a veterinary cardiologist?
If your pet has (or is suspected to have) a heart condition, your vet may recommend that you bring them to a board-certified veterinary cardiologist.
During a cardiology appointment, the cardiologist will perform an examination and diagnostics to diagnose your pet's condition and offer the appropriate treatment recommendations.
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What should I bring to the initial appointment?
When visiting our veterinary cardiology department, please bring:
- A list of all medications for your pet, along with strengths and dosages.
- Any medical records or chest x-rays that the cardiologist may need.
- Your pet. If your pet takes anti-anxiety medication you can administer it to them prior to their appointment.
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What should I expect during my pet's visit with a veterinary cardiologist?
Preparing for the Visit
There are a few things you’ll need to do to prepare for your pet’s visit with our cardiologist, including gathering necessary paperwork and details about their health history, including:
- A list of all medications they take.
- Any medical records that you have.
- X-rays or other diagnostic images.
- Results from bloodwork or other tests.
During The Appointment
When you bring your pet in for their appointment, our team will welcome you and check you and your pet in. Your visit will unfold as follows:
- Upon arrival, your pet will be checked in and initial diagnostics such as a blood pressure reading may be performed.
- The cardiologist will then perform a complete examination and in some cases, an echocardiogram on your pet. You can be with your pet during this time.
- The cardiologist will then discuss their findings with you and recommendations for the next steps in care.
After the Appointment
Your primary veterinarian will be provided with a copy of any test results and findings so they can continue with the ongoing care of your pet.
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Can I stay with my pet during their exam and echocardiogram?
Yes! We highly recommend that you stay with your pet for the duration of your visit. Your presence can help keep your companion relaxed during their exam and diagnostics.
Evaluation of Heart Conditions
At your appointment, the cardiologist will review your dog or cat’s health history and then perform a thorough physical examination of your pet. Based on these findings, additional diagnostic testing may be recommended such as:
- Echocardiography – Human hospital-grade ultrasound
- Electrocardiography (ECG) with digital output
- Digital radiography (x-rays)
- Blood pressure – Doppler and oscillometric
- Holter monitors (24-hour ECG)
- Telemetry for in-hospital cases
- Fluoroscopy for invasive procedures and more
- Electroconversion of atrial fibrillation and other rhythm disturbances
- Pacemakers
