Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada
What you need to know about Holter monitoring.
What is a Holter Monitor, and Does Your Dog Need One?
When it comes to our pets’ heart health, sometimes we need more than just a stethoscope. A Holter monitor is a powerful diagnostic tool that allows veterinarians to look beyond the clinic and gain a deeper understanding of your dog’s heart rhythm over 24 to 48 hours. But what exactly is a Holter monitor, and how can it help your dog?
What is a Holter Monitor?
A Holter monitor is a portable device that continuously records the electrical activity of the heart. It’s essentially an extended electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) that tracks heart rhythms while your dog goes about its normal daily activities. Unlike a brief ECG taken in the clinic, the Holter monitor provides a full picture of your dog’s heart rhythm over time.
The device is attached to your dog using electrodes and a snug vest or harness that keeps everything in place. Most dogs tolerate the setup well, and the lightweight equipment doesn’t interfere with their ability to walk, eat, or play.
Why Might Your Dog Need a Holter Monitor?
Certain heart conditions may not show symptoms during a brief veterinary exam. A Holter monitor can help diagnose or monitor:
- Arrhythmias: These irregular heart rhythms may occur sporadically, making them hard to catch in a standard ECG.
- Breed-Specific Concerns: Breeds like Boxers, Dobermans, Great Dane, German Shepherd, Bouvier de Flanders, Rottweiler, Labrador Retriever, Bull Mastiff, Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever, Great Pyrenees, Irish Wolfhound, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Saluki
- are prone to arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) or other arrhythmias. Routine Holter monitoring can catch these issues early.
- Fainting Episodes (Syncope): If your dog has experienced unexplained fainting, a Holter monitor can determine if the cause is related to their heart.
- Treatment Monitoring: If your dog is on medication for an arrhythmia, the Holter monitor helps ensure the treatment is effective.
What Happens During Holter Monitoring?
The process is simple: You will follow the directions that are in the case and will attach the device. Keep a log of events, such as exercise, rest, or unusual behavior, is helpful for interpretation.
Afterward, the data is analyzed for abnormalities, such as skipped beats or periods of fast or slow heart rates. The results guide further diagnostics or treatment decisions.
Is a Holter Monitor Right for Your Dog?
Not all dogs need Holter monitoring, but if your veterinarian suspects a heart condition or if your dog belongs to a breed at high risk, it’s worth discussing. Holter monitoring is non-invasive and provides invaluable insights that can help protect your dog’s heart health and overall well-being.