Kali is a beautiful, happy puppy who was purchased from a breeder in Florida. At her first visit to the vet, Kali’s owners were told that she had a heart murmur. Their vet suggested that Kali see a Veterinary Cardiologist immediately. Tests revealed that Kali had PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) and without surgery her prognosis was not good. “We were told that she would probably die before she was a year old. I was crushed! I couldn’t bear watching her die!” ~ Brenda Gore, Kali’s mom.
PDA is one of the most common cardiac birth defects seen in dogs. Females are more likely to be affected than males. Normally the blood flows from the right side of the heart to the lungs, then into the left side of the heart and out to the rest of the body. In PDA some of the blood leaving the left side of the heart is channeled back into the lungs. As a result of this, the heart must work harder to make sure enough blood is getting to the rest of the body. If this condition goes without treatment premature death is likely.
After seeing Kali, Dr. King, RegionalVet’s Board Certified Cardiologist, recommended immediate surgical correction in order to prevent the development of left-sided heart failure. The treatment of PDA in a toy breed puppy like Kali, requires heart surgery. “We were able to do this for Kali and only two days later, she was back home with her family! She no longer has a heart murmur and her prognosis for a long, happy life is excellent.” ~ Dr. Lindquist.
Are you considering purchasing a puppy? Here are some questions to ask when choosing a puppy:
- Are there any common health problems associated with this breed?
- Can I meet the puppy’s mother and father?
- May I see / visit where the puppies are raised?
- What is the average lifespan of the dogs?
- At what age can the puppy go to its new home?
- What immunization protocol do you follow for your breeding dogs and your puppies?
- Do the puppies have any type of socialization & training prior to being sent to their new homes?
- Are you affiliated with any breeder associations? Why or why not?
- Do you have references?
- What guarantees do you offer with your puppies?
Whether you’ve just purchased a puppy and are looking for a new veterinarian or your pet requires a difficult surgery, RegionalVet is here for you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Home to South Jersey’s top veterinary professionals, RegionalVet treats more than 14,000 cats and dogs every year. RegionalVet is where the highest standards in veterinary medicine meet warmth and compassion.
“Everyone at RegionalVet was absolutely great! They loved Kali and took exceptional care of her. I’ve already spread the word about my experience with RegionalVet and would definitely recommend them to anyone! Thanks to Dr. Lindquist, I have a happy, healthy baby that I can enjoy for many years to come! He is Kali’s hero!” ~ Brenda Gore.
For more information about surgery at RegionalVet go to www.regionalvet.com or call 856.728.1400.