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While some murmurs are harmless, others can indicate serious heart conditions.
At Veterinary Specialists of Sydney, we know how important early diagnosis can be. That is why we have introduced the Baby Heart Clinic, led by Dr Julie Kavanagh.
The Baby Heart Clinic
Did you know that up to 2% of puppies and kittens are born with a heart murmur?
Our Baby Heart Clinic is designed for puppies and kittens under 12 months of age who have had a heart murmur detected by their regular vet and are otherwise well. The aim is to provide a clear diagnosis early, so the right next steps can be taken with confidence.
The clinic runs every Tuesday from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, making it easy for referring vets and pet owners to access a dedicated specialist assessment in a set weekly timeslot.
Bookings: Ask your vet for a referral or contact our team directly to secure an appointment -> alissa@vsos.com.au
Why early assessment matters
A heart murmur is an abnormal sound caused by blood flow through the heart. In some young pets, this may be innocent and disappear as they grow. In others, it can be the first sign of an underlying congenital heart condition.
Because many puppies and kittens with murmurs appear bright and healthy, early assessment is the best way to understand what is really happening and whether monitoring or treatment may be needed.
What is included
The Baby Heart Clinic fee is $495 and includes:
- Specialist physical examination
- Comprehensive echocardiogram
- Detailed report sent to your regular vet
- Recommendations for any next steps, if needed
A discounted specialist assessment for young patients, where early answers can make all the difference
Who is the Baby Heart Clinic for?
The Baby Heart Clinic is suitable for:
- Puppies under 12 months with a heart murmur
- Kittens under 12 months with a heart murmur
If your pet is unwell or showing signs such as breathing difficulty, weakness, collapse, or poor growth, a broader or more urgent assessment may be recommended.
What happens on the day
The process is designed to be simple and low-stress.
- Your pet is admitted directly with our Cardiology Nurse, so there is no need for a full specialist consultation first.
- Dr Julie Kavanagh then performs a physical examination and a comprehensive echocardiogram to determine whether the murmur is innocent or linked to an underlying condition.
- After the assessment, a detailed report is sent back to your regular veterinarian. They remain your primary vet for ongoing care, with VSOS available if advanced treatment or follow-up is needed.
Book an appointment
The Baby Heart Clinic runs every Tuesday from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
To book, please contact Alissa in Mobile Services or call VSOS Reception on (02) 8376 8768.
