When I was first told that Star had a heart murmur, I remember leaving the appointment with a lot of questions in my head. But mostly, what happens now?
If you’ve recently been told your dog has a heart murmur, you’re not alone. Here’s what typically happens next and what you can expect moving forward.
What Is a Heart Murmur?
A heart murmur is an abnormal sound heard when a vet listens to your dog’s heart with a stethoscope.
Rather than the normal “lub-dub” heartbeat, a murmur sounds like a whooshing noise caused by turbulent blood flow.
Importantly, a heart murmur is not actually a diagnosis. It is a clinical finding that may have several different causes.
Does a Heart Murmur Mean My Dog Has Heart Disease?
Not necessarily.
Some murmurs are innocent and cause no problems. Others may be associated with underlying heart disease.
Your vet will consider several factors, including:
- Your dog’s age
- Breed
- Murmur grade
- Clinical signs
- Overall health
Further investigations may be recommended to understand the cause.
What Tests Might Be Recommended?
Depending on your dog’s situation, your vet may suggest:
Echocardiography (echo)
This is often considered the gold standard for assessing heart disease.
An echo allows a vet cardiologist to evaluate:
- Heart structure
- Heart function
- Valve abnormalities
- Blood flow
Chest Radiographs (X-rays)
These can help assess:
- Heart size
- Changes within the lungs
- Signs of congestive heart failure
Blood Pressure Measurement
Blood pressure can influence heart health and may be checked as part of a complete assessment.
Will My Dog Need Medication?
Not every dog with a heart murmur requires treatment.
In some cases, monitoring may be all that is needed.
If heart disease is identified, your vet will discuss whether medication is appropriate and when treatment should begin.
What Should I Watch For At Home?
Many dogs with heart disease continue to enjoy a happy, active life.
However, it’s important to monitor for changes such as:
- Increased resting breathing rate
- Coughing
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Increased tiredness
- Changes in appetite
- Breathing difficulties
If you notice any concerning signs, contact your vet promptly.
A Final Thought
Take things one step at a time. Ask questions. Learn about your dog’s condition. And most importantly, continue enjoying the everyday moments together.