Heart disease is common in both dogs and cats and may eventually result in CHF. However, the clinical signs of CHF can overlap with other causes of respiratory compromise, making it challenging to differentiate cardiac from non-cardiac causes of respiratory distress in emergency veterinary practice.
Join this CPD webinar – part of the BVA and In Practice webinar series – to explore a practical approach to a patient presenting with acute respiratory distress of unknown cause. We'll discuss the key diagnostic tests used to distinguish cardiac from non-cardiac causes, the principles underlying the development of CHF, and how to manage acute heart failure.
The webinar will highlight the similarities and differences between canine and feline patients, as well as the importance of tailoring treatment to the individual patient, considering the severity of clinical signs, comorbidities and patient demeanour.
What you'll learn
Join this session and leave with:
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an understanding of the pathophysiological principles leading to the development of congestive heart failure
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a structured approach to a patient presenting with acute respiratory distress of unknown cause
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an understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of the key diagnostic tests used to distinguish cardiac from non-cardiac causes of respiratory distress D|
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an understanding of how the most commonly used drugs act to control congestive heart failure
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an understanding of the key differences in the management of canine and feline acute heart failure patients.
Why attend?
If you're looking to strengthen your approach to patients presenting with acute respiratory distress, this session will provide practical guidance on differentiating cardiac from non-cardiac causes and managing acute congestive heart failure.
Whether you're assessing a patient with respiratory distress of unknown cause or managing a confirmed cardiac emergency, you'll leave with a clearer understanding of the diagnostic and treatment approach, and how to tailor management to the individual patient.
Further reading
Enhance your learning by reviewing 'Approach to dealing with acute heart failure in cats and dogs' ahead of the session, an In Practice article by our speaker, Melanie Hezzell.
Meet the speaker
Melanie Hezzell MA VetMB PhD CertVDI CertVC FHEA FRCVS DipACVIM (Cardiology)
Professor of Veterinary Cardiology, University of Bristol
Melanie graduated from Cambridge in 1997. She worked in mixed and small animal practices in the UK, Australia and New Zealand for 10 years, during which time she gained the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Certificates in Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging and Veterinary Cardiology. She then undertook a rotating small animal internship at the Royal Veterinary College, followed by a PhD in the epidemiology of mitral valve disease at the same institution.
Following a residency in veterinary cardiology at the University of Pennsylvania, she joined the University of Bristol where she is currently Professor of Veterinary Cardiology.