30286 Rasmussen Rd
Pequot Lakes, MN 56472
Mon: 8 am - 7 pm
Tue: 8 am - 5 pm
Wed: 9 am - 5 pm
Thu - Fri: 8 am - 5 pm
Welcome to Pequot Lakes Animal Hospital, where Dr. Blake Setness offers echocardiograms to help evaluate and protect your pet's heart health.
An echocardiogram, often called an "echo," is a non-invasive ultrasound test that allows Dr. Blake Setness to see your pet's heart in motion. Using sound waves, this imaging tool creates detailed pictures of the heart's chambers, valves, and surrounding blood vessels, helping us assess how well the heart is pumping and identify any structural or functional abnormalities.
Echocardiograms are an important diagnostic tool for pets showing signs of heart disease, such as coughing, fatigue, or difficulty breathing, as well as for pets with heart murmurs detected during a routine exam. This painless procedure provides valuable information that helps guide treatment decisions and supports your pet's long-term cardiac health.
Dr. Blake Setness is committed to making the echocardiogram process smooth and stress-free for both you and your pet. Here's how it works:
Before the echocardiogram, Dr. Blake Setness performs a physical exam and reviews your pet's medical history, including any symptoms or concerns that prompted the test. This helps us determine the best approach for your pet's evaluation.
During the exam, your pet will lie comfortably while a trained team member gently places an ultrasound probe against their chest. Most pets tolerate the procedure well without sedation, though some may benefit from mild sedation to stay calm and still. The test typically takes 20–45 minutes, depending on your pet's condition.
Once the imaging is complete, Dr. Blake Setness reviews the results with you, explaining any findings in clear, easy-to-understand terms. If a heart condition is identified, we'll discuss treatment options and next steps tailored to your pet's needs.
For pets with diagnosed heart conditions, we may recommend periodic echocardiograms to monitor changes over time and adjust treatment plans as needed, helping support your pet's quality of life.
Heart disease can develop gradually and may not always show obvious symptoms in its early stages. Echocardiograms allow Dr. Blake Setness to detect heart abnormalities early, often before serious symptoms appear, giving your pet the best chance at effective treatment and a longer, healthier life.
Echocardiograms can reveal heart conditions in their earliest stages, allowing for timely intervention and better long-term outcomes.
This imaging technique uses sound waves rather than radiation, making it a safe diagnostic option for pets of all ages, including those with other health concerns.
Detailed information about your pet's heart structure and function helps Dr. Blake Setness develop an effective, individualized treatment plan.
If your pet is showing any of the following signs, an echocardiogram may help identify an underlying heart condition:
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact us promptly. Early evaluation can make a significant difference in your pet's heart health and overall comfort.
The frequency of echocardiograms depends on your pet's individual health and any existing heart conditions. Pets with diagnosed heart disease may need periodic echocardiograms to monitor progression, while pets being screened for the first time typically only need a single evaluation unless symptoms arise. Dr. Blake Setness will recommend a monitoring schedule tailored to your pet's specific needs.
Pequot Lakes Animal Hospital is committed to providing thorough, compassionate diagnostic care for pets in Pequot Lakes and surrounding communities:
An echocardiogram is a non-invasive ultrasound test that creates detailed images of your pet's heart. It helps Dr. Blake Setness detect heart murmurs, structural abnormalities, and other cardiac conditions that may be causing symptoms like coughing, fatigue, or difficulty breathing.
The cost of an echocardiogram depends on your pet's needs and whether sedation is required. Most echocardiograms take 20–45 minutes. For an accurate estimate, please call us at (218) 568-5095.
No special preparation is typically required, though we may ask you to limit your pet's activity beforehand. If sedation is needed, Dr. Blake Setness will provide fasting instructions in advance. Bring any relevant medical records to help guide the evaluation.
Echocardiograms are safe and painless, using sound waves rather than radiation. Most pets do not need sedation, though it may be recommended for anxious or active pets to help them stay calm and still during the procedure.
To schedule an echocardiogram, call (218) 568-5095 or visit us at 30286 Rasmussen Rd, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472. We're open Monday 8:00am–7:00pm; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 8:00am–5:00pm; Wednesday 9:00am–5:00pm.
If your pet is showing signs of heart trouble or your veterinarian has recommended further evaluation, trust Pequot Lakes Animal Hospital for thorough, compassionate cardiac diagnostics. Call us at (218) 568-5095 to schedule an echocardiogram or learn more. Visit us at 30286 Rasmussen Rd, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472. We are open Monday 8:00am–7:00pm; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday 8:00am–5:00pm; Wednesday 9:00am–5:00pm. Dr. Blake Setness and our team are here to support your pet's heart health every step of the way.
