South Belfast : COLUMN
MikeMORFETT
Mike Morfett MRCVS MA VetMB Veterinary Surgeon from Flynnvets at Balmoral and Commons Brae is back to answer your questions about problem pet issues.
THE HIDDEN KILLER Heart disease in large dogs can often go undiagnosed, leading to tragic consequences.
helps us to gauge whether your dog is at risk. This test is relatively new and we would like to bring it to the attention of dog owners in Belfast.
Cardiac (heart) disease is very common in dogs of all shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, in many large breed dogs, it can be a completely hidden genetic problem that is present from birth. Many affected dogs show no symptoms whatsoever until it is too late. Sadly, at Flynn Vets recently we have diagnosed several young and middle aged medium and large dogs with serious congenital heart conditions.
Do you have a large dog? Test their heart for free! For a limited period of time, Flynn Vets at Commons Brae and Balmoral will be performing this test FREE OF CHARGE for large breed dogs. This free testing is a screening program that will attempt to diagnose heart problems early on in their development and allow treatment before it is too late.
One common such condition is Dilated Cardiomyopathy, also known as DCM. In DCM, the heart gradually becomes weak and balloon-like as time goes by. Some dogs gradually start to become tired while running, but others seem completely normal until suddenly collapsing, either passing out or even simply dying when having fun in the park.
Simpy ring either of our clinics for more information and to make an appointment. Large-dog heart disease and DCM: Things to remember
Fortunately, there is a safe and non-invasive blood test that measures the level of strain on the dog’s myocytes (cardiac cells), and
• It can affect any breed, from Labradors to Dalmatians to Danes. • It can be completely undetectable. It does not matter if you think your dog is “as fit as a fiddle”. • It can cause sudden and severe symptoms and even death. • Treatment is available. • We are offering a FREE blood test to measure heart strain.
It’s no surprise... you’ll get the best care for your pet at Flynn Veterinary Centres NOW OPEN: DoGroom - Katrina offers expert dog grooming at Balmoral, book now for Xmas. Enroll in our puppy socialisation classes with Megan and Mairead. Give your new puppy the best start.
SPECIAL OFFER
NOW OPEN: The Cat Loft - Cosy Cattery, giving expert care when you are away. NEW Healthy Pet Club. NEW 24hrs Out of Hours Veterinary service. NEW Ambulance service, free pick up and drop off for all male and female dog neutering by arrangement.
COMMONS BRAE
188 Saintfield Road, Belfast BT8 6HG T: 028 9079 9500 34
South Belfast Life
BALMORAL
Puppy Pack
1st and 2nd Vaccination Injections for £49: Including Worming, Flea treatment, Microchip, Information pack, 4 Weeks Free Petplan Insurance. Our Dog vaccination injections can be given from 6 weeks of age.
140 Stockmans Lane, Belfast BT9 7JE T: 028 9066 6881
SPECIAL OFFER
KITTEN Pack
1st and 2nd Vaccination Injections for £55: Including Worming, Flea treatment, Microchip, Information pack, 4 Weeks Free Petplan Insurance. Our Cat vaccination injections can be given from 7 weeks of age.
FLYNN VETERINARY CENTRE Check out the best care for your pet at
www.flynnvets.com
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