Pet Echocardiography at Cimarron Animal Hospital in Tucson, AZ
At Cimarron Animal Hospital, echocardiography is a non-invasive ultrasound of the heart that allows us to assess cardiac function and detect abnormalities with precision and care.
Pet Echocardiography for Dogs and Cats in Tucson, AZ
If your pet has a heart murmur, coughing, difficulty breathing, or decreased energy, a veterinary echocardiogram (Echo) can provide the answers you need.
At Cimarron Animal Hospital, we offer advanced echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) performed by a mobile imaging specialist right here in our clinic. Your pet’s Echo is then reviewed by a board-certified veterinary radiologist, with a detailed report returned within 24–48 hours.
What Is an Echocardiogram (Echo)?
An echocardiogram (Echo) is a specialized ultrasound of the heart. It uses sound waves to create real-time images of your pet’s heart, allowing us to evaluate both structure and function.
Echocardiography is the gold standard diagnostic tool for detecting and monitoring heart disease in dogs and cats.
When Does My Pet Need an Echo?
Your veterinarian may recommend an echocardiogram (Echo) if your pet has:
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A heart murmur
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Coughing or breathing changes
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Exercise intolerance or fatigue
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Collapse or fainting episodes
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Suspected or known heart disease
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Abnormal findings on X-rays
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Breed-related risk for heart conditions
What Can Echocardiography Detect?
Echocardiography (Echo) provides critical insight into heart health, including:
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Heart enlargement
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Valve disease (such as mitral valve disease)
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Congenital heart defects
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Cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease)
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Blood flow abnormalities
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Fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion)
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Staging, severity and progression of heart disease
Why Choose an Echo Instead of X-Rays?
While radiographs (X-rays) are helpful for evaluating the size of the heart and lungs, they cannot show how the heart is functioning.
Echocardiography (Echo) allows us to:
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See the heart beating in real time
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Evaluate valve movement
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Measure blood flow through the heart
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Accurately diagnose specific heart conditions
Best Practice: Use Both Together
In many cases, we use X-rays and echocardiography together—X-rays provide the big picture, while Echo gives detailed, functional insight.
Benefits of Echocardiography (Echo)
✔ Non-invasive and pain-free
No surgery, no incisions, and minimal stress for your pet.
✔ No anesthesia required (in most cases)
Most pets remain awake and comfortable during the Echo.
✔ Real-time results
We can observe heart motion and blood flow instantly.
✔ Early detection of heart disease
Echocardiography allows us to diagnose conditions before they become advanced.
✔ Specialist-reviewed results
Every Echo is interpreted by a board-certified veterinary radiologist, ensuring accurate and reliable diagnosis.
What to Expect During Your Pet’s Echo
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Your pet will lie comfortably on a padded surface
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A small area of fur may be shaved for better contact
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A gentle probe is used to capture heart images
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The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes
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Most pets do not require sedation
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Results are returned within 24–48 hours
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Heart disease in pets is often progressive but manageable—especially when detected early.
An echocardiogram (Echo) helps us:
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Confirm or rule out heart disease
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Determine the severity of the condition
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Guide medication and treatment decisions
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Monitor changes over time
Compassionate Cardiac Care
At Cimarron Animal Hospital, we combine advanced echocardiography (Echo) technology with a calm, caring environment to ensure your pet’s comfort every step of the way. We want to help you keep your pet living as active and happy a life for as long as possible! Echo helps us do that!
Schedule a Pet Echocardiogram (Echo)
If your pet has a heart murmur or symptoms of heart disease, don’t wait—early evaluation can make a significant difference.
Text or Call Cimarron Animal Hospital today to schedule your pet’s echocardiography (Echo) appointment.