How can I prepare for my visit?
Prior to your visit, please ensure your primary care veterinarian (or local ER) has sent all medical records to Dr. Pinkos. On the day of the exam, give your pets medications as prescribed (unless otherwise directed). This includes anti-anxiety medications. Please bring all medications to your appointment and have the name/brand of your pet’s food available for review.
How long will my appointment take?
A new visit with Dr. Pinkos takes approximately 1 hour. Rechecks may be shorter in duration.
Will my patient be shaved for the echocardiogram? Does an echocardiogram hurt?
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. Your pet will lay on their side while technicians gently talk them through the procedure. They will NOT be shaved but their hair will be wet down with alcohol and ultrasound gel. This can easily be wiped off. The ultrasound probe is external, non-invasive and causes no discomfort.
Who do I contact in case of an emergency?
If your pet is experiencing concerning cardiac symptoms, please visit your local emergency room. For non-emergent but urgent questions, please contact your primary care veterinarian first followed by emailing Dr. Pinkos.
How do I count my pet’s sleeping respiratory rate?
Please monitor your pet’s resting respiratory rate at home while your pet is sound asleep. Count the respirations per minute (number of times the chest moves in and out per minute; in and out being one breath) while sound asleep. Normal resting respiratory rates in animals will be between 10-30 breaths per minute or less (ideally in the teens or low 20s). Please notify us if you observe a progressive increase in the respiratory rate or if the rate increases above 30. If sudden and severe changes are noted please take your pet to the nearest emergency room.