Cardiology is the branch of medicine dealing with the heart, blood vessels, and lungs. Common disorders seen by cardiologists include valvular heart disease, dilated cardiomyopathy, congenital heart disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, and pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure). Common diagnostic tools include an ECG (electrocardiogram), an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart), a Holter monitor (device worn for 24-48 hours to record rate and rhythm), and blood pressure. Â Cardiologists also perform catheter-based procedures to correct/improve congenital heart disease and place pacemakers for inappropriately slow heart rates.
Dogs with Atrial Fibrillation
Tjostheim AFib Study Brochure
We are recruiting dogs with atrial fibrillation (resulting in a rapid heart rate) to evaluate common anti-arrhythmia drugs (diltiazem and amiodarone).