When our beloved dog is facing a health issue like a heart murmur, it can feel like the world comes crashing down. Not only do we worry about our dog’s well-being, but we also worry about the cost of getting them the proper treatment. Heart murmur in dogs is a common and treatable condition. But how much does heart murmur treatment cost in dogs?
The cost of dog heart murmur treatment depends on the severity of the condition and any other underlying conditions that may be present. The cost will also depend on the type of treatment necessary.
The cost of treatment for heart murmurs can range from $1,500 and cost more than $20,000, depending on the size and type of the dog, its age, and the severity of the murmur.
Did you know?
Approximately 60% of dogs over the age of 5 years old experience heart murmurs.
What Is Heart Murmur in Dogs?
Heart murmurs in dogs, also known as cardiac murmurs, are abnormal sounds generated by turbulent blood flow, which various abnormalities can cause. These sounds can be heard through a stethoscope and may indicate the presence of certain heart conditions like congenital defects, such as valve dysplasia, or acquired diseases like valvular insufficiency due to degeneration or infection.
Prognosis: Excellent to the grave, depending on the underlying cause.
Causes of Heart Murmur in Dogs
Different conditions can cause heart murmurs in dogs. These include
- Congenital defects, such as valve dysplasia, where the valves that separate the heart chambers do not form properly.
- Acquired diseases like valvular insufficiency due to degeneration or infection.
- Abnormal blood clotting.
- Valves cardiomyopathy, which is a disease of the heart muscle that affects its ability to pump blood
- Arrhythmias or abnormal heartbeat rhythms.
- Some dogs may have an inherited tendency to develop certain heart murmurs.
Symptoms of Heart Murmur in Dogs
The most common symptom of a heart murmur in dogs is an abnormal sound heard through a stethoscope. This sound will vary depending on the underlying cause and can range from a soft swishing noise to louder rumbling or whooshing sounds. Other symptoms may include
- Fainting
- Difficulty breathing
- Exercise intolerance
- Coughing
- Fatigue
- Increased heart rate
Note: Heart murmurs caused by valve defects or congenital diseases may not be treatable and can lead to premature death. However, milder forms of heart murmurs can usually be managed successfully through medication or surgery.
Diagnosing Heart Murmer in Dogs and Its Cost
Your veterinarian will diagnose a heart murmur in your dog through a physical examination and listening to the heart with a stethoscope. They may order blood tests, X-rays, ultrasounds, or other imaging tests, such as echocardiograms, to get an accurate diagnosis.
- Blood test cost ranges from $50 to $120.
- X-ray costs $50-$200.
- Ultrasound cost ranges from $250 to $500.
- An echocardiogram usually costs $300.
- MRI costs $1000.
All of these tests, when combined with the vet examination fee, can cost upwards of $1,500 to diagnose the condition.
Heart Murmur Treatment and Its Cost in Dogs
Depending on the diagnosis, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to treat any underlying conditions like infections or arrhythmias. Surgery may be needed to repair congenital defects, and other treatments may include special diets and supplements to improve overall health.
Cost of Heart Murmur Treatment in Dogs
The cost of these treatments can range greatly depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.
- Medication costs can range from $10 to upwards of $200 per month, depending on the type and dosage prescribed by your veterinarian.
- Radiation therapy ranges from $2,000-$6,000.
- Special diets may cost up to $200 per month.
- Supplements can range from $10 to $100 for a one-month supply.
- Surgery costs vary widely depending on the extent of damage and can cost more than $20,000.
Preventing Heart Murmur in Dogs and Its Cost
Preventing heart murmurs in dogs can be done by providing them with a healthy diet and plenty of exercises.
- Feeding your dog a high-quality diet can help keep them healthy and reduce their risk of developing heart murmurs. High-quality dog food may cost up to $50-200 per month, depending on the size and breed of your pet.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Heart Murmur in Dogs
The cost of diagnosing and treating heart murmurs in dogs can vary greatly depending on the underlying cause. Additional factors that influence the overall cost include:
- Location – Veterinary services may be more expensive in some areas than others.
- Type of tests – Diagnostic tests such as X-rays and ultrasounds are usually pricier than blood tests.
- The extent of treatment – More extensive treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy may cost much more.
- Quality of care – Better quality veterinary services, such as specialized clinics and hospitals, may charge higher fees for their services.
- The severity of the condition – The more serious a heart murmur is, the more expensive it can be to diagnose and treat.
Final Thoughts on the Cost of Heart Murmur Treatment
The cost of diagnosing and treating heart murmurs in dogs can be quite expensive. Usually, the cost of treatment for heart murmurs can range from $1,500 and cost more than $20,000. However, it is important to remember that the long-term health and well-being of your pet are worth the investment. Investing in preventive care, such as regular checkups and a healthy diet, can help reduce your pet’s risk of developing heart murmurs and other serious illnesses.
