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Can dog heart failure be diagnosed by listening? Is Vetmedin lifelong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 8 years and 7 months old | 8.708 lbs

My vet prescribed my dog vetmedin for the rest of her life because of 3rd level heart failure which she diagnosed via listening to her heart through stethoscope. Is this possible? is it possible to diagnose with heart failure just by listening? and is it possible that she needs to drink the medicine for the rest of her life?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 10th, 2020

Yes, it is possible to diagnose heart disease by listening to the heart. And yes if Mia has heart disease, she will need the medication for the rest of her life. Heart disease cannot be cured, the symptoms can only be managed.

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3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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