Cardiology

Cardiology focuses on diseases of the heart and circulatory system. In pets, this includes conditions such as congenital defects (present from birth), valve disorders, heart muscle diseases, rhythm disturbances, and fluid build-up around the heart or lungs.

Pets may be referred to our cardiology team for:

• Heart murmurs
• Abnormal heart rhythms
• Laboured breathing or coughing
• Fainting or collapsing episodes (syncope)
• Reduced exercise levels or lethargy
• Congenital heart conditions (Puppy murmur, kitten murmur)
• Heart check-up prior to general anesthesia

• Comprehensive cardiac consultations with a cardiology specialist
• Echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart, or “heart scan”)
• Electrocardiograms (ECG)
• Holter monitoring (24-hour ECG)
• Chest xrays
• Blood pressure monitoring
• Blood tests
• Heart surgery

At VSOS, we offer a highly advanced service that allow us to be the only Cardiology centre in NSW to offer both minimally invasive procedures (key hole) and open-heart surgery. Our heart surgeries include:

We use gold-standard diagnostic equipment and software to provide clear insights and early intervention options. Our approach is highly collaborative, offering a multi-disciplinary approach involving your primary vet and other specialists (Emergency and Critical Care, Internal Medicine, Radiology, Anesthesia, Soft Tissue Surgery...) as needed, ensuring continuity and clarity every step of the way.

One of our unique services includes the Baby Heart Clinic - a dedicated, discounted service for pets under 1 year old with a murmur but no other symptoms.

If your puppy or kitten is under 1 year old, has a heart murmur but is otherwise healthy, they may be eligible for a specialist echocardiogram and report for a heavily discounted rate.

From your first referral, we aim to make the process smooth and stress-free, for both you and your pet.

• Most pets tolerate their heart scan without sedation, and we gently guide them through each step.
• In many cases, we’re able to complete the consultation and echocardiogram within an hour - giving you clear answers and a treatment plan the same day, so there’s no need to leave your pet with us longer than necessary.
• Your pet remains in our calm, supportive environment throughout, with close monitoring and experienced hands.
• We’ll walk you through the results, explain treatment options in simple terms, and tailor our recommendations to your pet’s lifestyle.
• If further tests are needed, we’ll discuss those on the day.
• Your local vet stays in the loop the whole way, ensuring continuity of care.

Dr Inaki Prado Checa, our specialist veterinary cardiologist, is passionate about early intervention, clear communication, and supporting pet owners through complex heart conditions. He brings international experience and a calm, compassionate approach to every patient.  Learn More here