Echocardiography for Pets in Lubbock, TX

Is Echocardiography Safe or Painful?

Echocardiography is a completely safe, noninvasive, and painless procedure. Unlike X-rays, it does not use radiation.
Most pets tolerate the test very well. Some may experience mild, momentary pressure from the probe, but there is no lasting discomfort. Because of its safety and accuracy, echocardiography is one of the most valuable diagnostic tools in veterinary medicine for detecting and managing heart disease.

When Does a Pet Need an Echocardiogram?

Your veterinarian may recommend an echocardiogram if they suspect your pet has heart disease or abnormal heart function.

Common signs and conditions that prompt this test include:

• Heart murmurs

• Chronic coughing

• Labored or rapid breathing

• Irregular heartbeat or pulse

• Fainting or lethargy

• Signs of heart enlargement seen on X-rays

Typically, your veterinarian will begin with a physical exam and chest X-rays. If the X-rays suggest heart enlargement or fluid buildup in the lungs—or if additional information is needed—an echocardiogram is the next diagnostic step.

Echocardiography may also be performed alongside ECG (electrocardiogram) testing and bloodwork to provide a complete assessment of your pet’s cardiac health.

What Does the Veterinarian Look for During an Echocardiogram?

During the procedure, every aspect of the heart is carefully evaluated, including:

• Size and shape of the atria and ventricles

• Thickness and motion of the heart muscle walls

• Valve function, including any leakage or incomplete closure

• Blood flow patterns, using color Doppler imaging to detect turbulence

• Strength of contractions and overall cardiac output

In addition to evaluating general heart function, echocardiography can detect tumors, congenital defects, fluid accumulation, and heartworm disease.

Will My Pet Need Sedation?

At Animal Medical Center, our goal is to perform echocardiograms without sedation whenever possible. Sedation can alter heart function and affect diagnostic accuracy, so we strive to keep pets calm and comfortable naturally.

The procedure is performed in a quiet, darkened room with soft cushions and gentle handling to help your pet relax. Most echocardiograms take only 15–30 minutes to complete.

If your pet becomes too anxious or stressed, a light sedative may be used—with your permission—to ensure safety and image quality. Because of this, an Anesthesia Release Form is required for all echocardiogram appointments.

Who Performs Echocardiograms at Animal Medical Center?

Echocardiography is a highly specialized diagnostic procedure requiring advanced training and expertise.

At Animal Medical Center, we partner with Dr. Kirk Sears of West Texas Veterinary Specialty, a board-certified veterinary internist who performs echocardiograms at our facility. Many veterinary hospitals across Lubbock and the South Plains refer their patients to our clinic for this service.

Once the echocardiogram and consultation are complete, we forward all findings and medical reports to your primary veterinarian for continued care.

Schedule a Pet Echocardiogram in Lubbock, TX

If your veterinarian has recommended an echocardiogram—or if you’ve noticed signs of possible heart disease—our team is here to help.

Appointments are available Monday through Friday, and pets are typically with us for 2–4 hours for the procedure.

???? Call Animal Medical Center at (806) 794-4118 to schedule your pet’s echocardiogram or to ask any questions about the process.

Your pet’s heart health is in expert hands at Lubbock Animal Medical Center—where compassion and advanced technology come together for better care.