Can better imaging predict heart failure?
Dogs are now being enrolled in a clinical study that seeks to utilize cardiac ultrasound to identify and stage congestive heart failure (CHF) in dogs. Dogs with asymptomatic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and degenerative mitral valve disease (MVD) and dogs with CHF caused by MVD or DCM will be enrolled. Any dog with DCM or MVD unless treated with high doses of diuretics and no concurrent systemic disease is eligible. Benefits for dog owners include low cost examinations (50 percent cost reduction for the first visit and free second visit), short scheduling and waiting times, and important contribution to a research study that can improve the health of dogs. The results of this study may help to earlier diagnose CHF, better stratify cardiovascular risk, tailor therapy to specific dog needs, and reduce the exposure of personnel and animals to the ionizing radiation required for repeated thoracic radiography. Contact: Karsten Schober, DVM, PhD (614) 292-3551 or Schober.4@osu.edu or Laura S
