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Degenerative Valve Disease

Within the heart, there are four one-way valves that ensure that blood flows in a forward direction to supply oxygen nutrients to the body. Time and genetic factors may cause these valves to degenerate. As the valves degenerate, the one-way valve begins to leak. The leaking of blood causes a splashing sound, heard as a murmur when your veterinarian listens to your pet’s heart. Some pets with valvular degeneration may show no overt signs of a problem; the murmur may be found incidentally during your pet’s wellness examination. Some pets may develop heart failure over time as the valves continue to degenerate. Symptoms of heart disease include: cough, exercise intolerance, collapse, and lethargy. Diagnosis of degenerative valve disease requires a physical examination and imaging studies (e.g.: chest x-rays, electrocardiogram, and heart ultrasound). Treatment for degenerative valve disease depends on the severity of the condition; the primary goal is to minimize the workload on the heart.

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10904 57th Street NE Albertville, MN 55301

Phone: (763) 515-6446 Fax: (763) 515-6444 Email: info@bestfriendsvetclinic.com

Hours

Mon: 8 am – 5 pm Tue: 8 am – 5 pm Wed: 8 am – 5 pm Thur: 8 am – 5 pm Fri: 8 am – 4:30 pm Sat: Closed Sun: Closed

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Emergency Clinics

Clinics can become temporarily overloaded and unable to admit patients, so we recommend calling ahead to determine which location is best able to handle your pet’s emergency.

BluePearl Veterinary Partners www.bluepearlvet.com Arden Hills: 763-754-5000 (24/7) Eden Prairie: 952-942-8272 (24/7) St. Cloud: 320-258-3481 (limited availability, call for hours)Blaine: 763-754-9434 (limited availability, call for hours)

Allied Emergency Veterinary Service www.alliedervet.com Minneapolis: 952-521-3030 (24/7)Brooklyn Park: 763-463-9800 (24/7)

Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG)www.veterinaryemergencygroup.com Maple Grove: 763-363-4869 (24/7)

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