Cardiology
Cardiology: Extraordinary Vets for Extraordinary Pets
Performing the largest number of cardiac interventional procedures in the UK, Willows’ Specialist Cardiology team are exceptionally proud to be delivering some of the very best clinical outcomes in the world.
Supported by a dedicated Cardiology nursing team providing round the clock care and support, our Cardiologists work together with our team of Specialists across 13 disciplines to ensure the best possible care for each and every patient.
The symptoms of coughing, breathing difficulties or fatigue on exercise can all be attributed to either heart or lung disease.
Due to the nature of such conditions patients with cardiac and/or respiratory problems will require prompt investigation and treatment. At Willows we aim to see urgent Cardiology patients the same day and our Specialists are happy to provide telephone advice to Veterinary Surgeons on the management of cardiac cases.
Cardiology: Extraordinary Vets for Extraordinary Pets
Performing the largest number of cardiac interventional produces in the UK, Willows Specialist Cardiology team are exceptionally proud to be delivering some of the very best clinical outcomes in the world.
Supported by a dedicated Cardiology nursing team providing round the clock care and support, our Cardiologists work together with our team of Specialists across 13 disciplines to ensure the best possible care for each and every patient.
The symptoms of coughing, breathing difficulties or fatigue on exercise can all be attributed to either heart or lung disease.
Due to the nature of such conditions patients with cardiac and/or respiratory problems will require prompt investigation and treatment. At Willows we aim to see urgent Cardiology patients the same day and our Specialists are happy to provide telephone advice to Veterinary Surgeons on the management of cardiac cases.
The symptoms of coughing, breathing difficulties or fatigue on exercise can all be attributed to either heart or lung disease.
Due to the nature of such conditions patients with cardiac and/or respiratory problems will require prompt investigation and treatment. At Willows we aim to see urgent Cardiology patients the same day and our Specialists are happy to provide telephone advice to Veterinary Surgeons on the management of cardiac cases.
What can I Expect if my Pet is Referred to a Cardiology Specialist?
The starting point for each patient presented to a member of the Cardiology team at Willows is a detailed consultation and discussion with the owner. Diagnosing the cause of cardiac signs often necessitates further investigations. Willows has access to state-of-the art cardiac diagnostic facilities including the very latest ultrasound, ECG, digital radiography, computerised tomography (CT scanning), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scanning) and fluoroscopy facilities.
What can I Expect if my Pet is Referred to a Cardiology Specialist?
The starting point for each patient presented to a member of the Cardiology team at Willows is a detailed consultation and discussion with the owner. Diagnosing the cause of cardiac signs often necessitates further investigations. Willows has access to state-of-the art cardiac diagnostic facilities including the very latest ultrasound, ECG, digital radiography, computerised tomography (CT scanning), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI scanning) and fluoroscopy facilities.
What are the Most Common Cardiac Conditions?
At Willows we deal with a wide variety of cardiac problems in both dogs and cats. The most common conditions encountered include; heart murmurs, irregular rhythms and difficulties breathing.
The most common causes of heart murmurs treated at Willows are mitral valve disease (a leak of one of the heart valves) and congenital heart disease (conditions young animals are born with).
Our team also specialise in the management of cats with heart conditions which require a different approach to their canine counterparts. As part of our commitment to the excellent care of cats, Willows is officially accredited by International Cat Care (iCatCare) as a Gold level Cat Friendly Clinic.
What are the Most Common Cardiac Conditions?
At Willows we deal with a wide variety of cardiac problems in both dogs and cats. The most common conditions encountered include; heart murmurs, irregular rhythms and difficulties breathing.
The most common causes of heart murmurs treated at Willows are mitral valve disease (a leak of one of the heart valves) and congenital heart disease (conditions young animals are born with).
Our team also specialise in the management of cats with heart conditions which require a different approach to their canine counterparts. As part of our commitment to the excellent care of cats, Willows is officially accredited by International Cat Care (iCatCare) as a Gold level Cat Friendly Clinic.
Our Specialist Cardiology team see and treat a wide range of patients including those with or requiring:
- Arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm / skipped beats / missed beats)
- Cardiomyopathy (valve disease)
- ECG (electrocardiograph)
- Echocardiography (heart scan)
- Fainting (collapse / dizzy spells / syncope)
- Heart failure
- Heart tumour (cancer)
- Holter monitor
- Pacemaker
- Pericardial effusion (Cardiac tamponade)
- Murmur
- Weak pulses
- PDA closure (Patent ductus arteriosus)
- Balloon dilatation of PS (Pulmonic stenosis, and other conditions)
What Facilities are Available at Willows?
Cardiac surgery requires very high levels of expertise and aseptic technique in order to minimise the possibility of postoperative infection. At Willows we have one of the most advanced cardiac facilities in Europe enabling our Specialist Cardiologists to perform investigations and surgeries to the highest level to achieve the best possible outcome for your pet. Our Cardiologists are supported by a highly trained and caring team of Veterinary Nurses who play an essential role in rehabilitating patients following the diagnosis of heart disease.
What Facilities are Available at Willows?
Cardiac surgery requires very high levels of expertise and aseptic technique in order to minimise the possibility of postoperative infection. At Willows we have one of the most advanced cardiac facilities in Europe enabling our Specialist Cardiologists to perform investigations and surgeries to the highest level to achieve the best possible outcome for your pet. Our Cardiologists are supported by a highly trained and caring team of Veterinary Nurses who play an essential role in rehabilitating patients following the diagnosis of heart disease.
Meet The Team
Simon Swift
MA VetMB CertSAC MRCVS DipECVIM-CA
RCVS & European Specialist in Small Animal Cardiology
Head of Cardiology
Fabio Sarcinella
DVM MRCVS DipECVIM-CA (Cardiology)
RCVS & European Specialist in Small Animal Cardiology
Siddharth Sudunagunta
BVetMed CertAVP(VC) AHEA DipECVIM-CA(Cardiology)
European & RCVS Specialist in Small Animal Cardiology
Cardiology – Find out more
To assist owners in understanding more about the conditions related to and treatments available for patients with heart and lung problems, we have put together a range of information sheets to talk you through the some of the more common cardiology conditions seen by our Specialists.
