Can Pets with Heart Murmurs Fly?
- PEV .
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Insights from Dr. Gerry, Expert Pet Travel Veterinarian
When planning international travel with your furry companions, one question that often arises is whether pets with heart murmurs can safely fly. Dr. Gerry, our experienced pet travel veterinarian, offers his expert advice on this matter.
Understanding Heart Murmurs in Pets
Heart murmurs in dogs and cats can have various origins. Some are congenital, meaning the pet is born with a structural abnormality in the heart or major blood vessels. Others are acquired as the pet ages. In dogs, a common cause of heart murmurs is the thickening of heart valves, which are essential for smooth blood flow. Cats, however, often experience heart murmurs due to heart muscle diseases, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).
Interestingly, some pets have asymptomatic murmurs. These are detectable by veterinarians but do not cause any noticeable symptoms or health issues, allowing many pets to live full, healthy lives.
Assessing the Severity
In more severe cases, heart murmurs can lead to heart failure, requiring emergency treatment and ongoing medication. Diagnosing the severity typically involves chest X-rays, ECGs, and cardiac ultrasounds, commonly known as "echos."
Evaluating Fitness-to-Fly
As a specialist in pet travel, Dr. Gerry evaluates each pet's fitness-to-fly on a case-by-case basis. This involves reviewing medical records from the primary veterinarian and any referral cardiologists. Current medications are also considered. Based on this comprehensive assessment, Dr. Gerry determines the risks associated with air travel and advises whether it is safe for the pet to fly.
Success Stories
Dr. Gerry has successfully facilitated international travel for pets with heart conditions. For instance, Kingsley, a Ragdoll cat with HCM, safely traveled from Hong Kong to Australia. Similarly, Lotte, a Yorkie with Mitral Valvular Disease (MVD), journeyed from Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi. With careful planning and assessment, both pets arrived safely and continue to thrive with their families.
While the decision to fly with a pet that has a heart murmur depends on individual circumstances, expert guidance and thorough preparation can make the journey safe. If you're considering international travel with a pet that has a heart condition, consult with a specialist like Dr. Gerry to ensure your furry friend's health and safety.
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