Your appointment with the Cardiology Service at the University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center starts with checking in at the reception desk. After you have finished the paperwork, our service will be notified and you will be greeted by one of our cardiology students. The student will guide you and your pet to an examination room, where he or she will ask questions about your pet’s history and do a full physical examination.
This part of our students’ education is invaluable on their journey to becoming successful veterinarians. We know it may take a little longer at times, but we highly appreciate your patience and help educating the next generation of veterinarians.
Please bring pertinent medical records and radiographs, or have your regular veterinarian fax or email them to us in advance. Also bring all the medications your pet is receiving.
In most cases, after the student has completed an examination, he or she will take your pet and present the case to either the cardiology resident or cardiologist on duty. The cardiology resident or cardiologist will then repeat the physical examination to confirm the student’s assessment. They will discuss the history and physical examination findings and tailor further recommendations for tests to your pet’s needs. After that the student and doctor in charge will return to you and make recommendations for the management of your pet’s condition.
In most cases, you will be asked to leave your pet with us over the next few hours for further work-up and tests. Unless hospitalization is necessary, most patients will be discharged in early to mid-afternoon.
During the discharge we will discuss all test results and make recommendations for medications, exercise and follow-up appointments. We know remembering all of that information can be overwhelming, so we’ll provide you with detailed written discharge notes. Your veterinarian will also receive a copy of your discharge notes, as well as a phone call from us to discuss our findings and recommendations.
If you have any questions regarding your pet’s condition and care, feel free to discuss them. After we have answered your questions the student will help you pick up any prescribed medications and check out.
