Information for Pet Owners
Cardiac Ultrasound for Your Pet - What to Expect ?
If your veterinarian has recommended a cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram) for your dog or cat, you may have questions about how the exam is performed and how Mobile Pet Echo works.
This page is here to explain the process and help you feel confident and reassured.
Where does the echocardiogram take place?
The echocardiogram is performed directly at your regular veterinary clinic.
This means:
- Your pet stays in a familiar environment
- No need to travel to a referral hospital
- Less stress for your pet — and for you
- Mobile Pet Echo comes to your clinic with specialized cardiac ultrasound equipment.
Who schedules the appointment?
Your regular veterinarian determines whether a cardiac ultrasound is needed and contacts Mobile Pet Echo directly to schedule the exam.
You do not need to arrange the appointment yourself with a specialist clinic.
How is the service billed?
The cardiac ultrasound service is billed through your regular veterinary clinic, not directly by Mobile Pet Echo.
The fee includes:
- The echocardiographic examination and image acquisition
- The interpretation of the images by a Board-Certified Veterinary Cardiologist
- A detailed written report
Your veterinarian will discuss the cost and the results with you.
Who interprets the exam?
The ultrasound images are reviewed by a Board-Certified Veterinary Cardiologist, a veterinarian with advanced specialist training in heart disease.
This ensures:
- Accurate diagnosis
- Reliable assessment of severity
- Clear recommendations for monitoring or treatment
When will we receive the results?
A validated written report is provided to your veterinarian within 48 hours of the examination.
Your veterinarian will then explain the results and next steps to you.
Can I stay with my pet during the exam?
Yes.
In most cases, pet owners are welcome to stay with their pet during the echocardiogram if they wish.
Your presence often helps:
- Reassure your pet
- Reduce anxiety
- Make the experience calmer and more comfortable
Is anesthesia required?
In the majority of cases, anesthesia is not necessary.
The exam is:
- Painless
- Non-invasive
- Well tolerated by most dogs and cats
Sedation is only considered in rare situations and will always be discussed with you beforehand.
How long does the exam take?
The echocardiogram usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the patient and the findings.
Why is a cardiac ultrasound important?
A heart ultrasound allows your veterinary team to:
- Understand the cause of a heart murmur or symptoms
- Confirm or rule out heart disease
- Choose the most appropriate treatment or monitoring plan
Improve your pet’s quality of life
A collaborative approach to your pet’s care
Mobile Pet Echo works in collaboration with your regular veterinarian.
Your veterinarian remains fully involved in your pet’s care and is the one who will discuss results and treatment options with you.
Clear answers. Familiar surroundings. Specialist-level care.
If you have questions about your pet’s cardiac ultrasound, do not hesitate to ask your veterinary team — they are here to help.