Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy describes an abnormality of the heart muscle; dilated refers to abnormal thinning of the heart muscle. The thin heart muscle causes weakness-blood cannot pump from the heart to the rest of the body efficiently. As the disease progresses, the heart begins to fail; the blood flows backward and pools in the lungs and other organs. The cause of Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is unknown; however, there is a genetic predisposition to this disease in certain breeds: Dobermans, Boxers, Great Danes, and Cocker Spaniels. Dogs with DCM may not show any signs of a problem until the disease has become advanced. Symptoms of DCM include: collapse, cough, lethargy, exercise intolerance, and acute death. Diagnosis of DCM begins with a physical examination focusing on the heart. A murmur may not be heard, however, an abnormal rhythm may be detected. Definitive diagnosis requires x-rays of your dog’s chest and an ultrasound of the heart. Treatment of DCM requires medications to help the weakened heart muscle pump blood to the body more efficiently. Prognosis for pets with this condition has improved over time with the advent of new heart drugs; however, the long term prognosis is poor once signs of heart failure occur.

Bellevue Hours
Monday8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday8:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday9:00am – 12:00pm
SundayClosed

FOR EMERGENCIES after hours pertaining to a surgery performed by Bellevue Animal Hospital in the last 14 days, please contact: (419) 603-8299.

FOR ALL OTHER EMERGIENCIES after hours please reach out to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital.

We usually hold an educational staff meeting from 12pm - 3pm on the second or third Wednesday of each month. We will be closed during this time.

After Hours

Since we are unable to staff our hospitals 24 hours a day, please contact one of the emergency centers below. They will be able provide you and your pet with the after hours supervision and care you need.



MedVet Cleveland West
20400 Emerald Parkway
Cleveland, OH 44135
216-362-6000
www.medvetforpets.com

Sandusky Hours
Monday8:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday8:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday8:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday8:00am – 5:00pm
Friday8:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday9:00am – 12:00pm
SundayClosed

FOR EMERGENCIES after hours pertaining to a surgery performed by Sandusky Animal Hospital in the last 14 days, please contact: (419) 603-8299.

FOR ALL OTHER EMERGIENCIES after hours please reach out to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital.

We usually hold an educational staff meeting from 12pm - 3pm on the second or third Wednesday of each month. We will be closed during this time.