Holter Monitors
Veterinary Cardiologists Australia uses state-of-the-art Montara ambulatory Holter systems. The monitors are worn within the pocket of a light weight modified Thunderjacket. This allows patients to comfortably wear the ECG monitors for 24 hours, or up to 7 days if required.
The information acquired from ambulatory monitoring is an invaluable tool for assessing patients with weakness, syncope and intermittent arrhythmias. In addition, it allows accurate assessment of response to anti-arrhythmic medications, rate-assessment of atrial fibrillation patients and screening of breeding dogs for select forms of cardiomyopathy
Holter Monitor Application And Removal
Holter application and removal is most commonly performed by the VCA cardiology nurses and cardiologists. However, for pet owners that are unable to attend the VSS hospitals at Underwood and Carrara, a Holter can be sent to your practice.
For some clients, the Holter is placed at VCA to reduce the risk of Holter placement issues and removed at the primary care clinic and posted back to VCA.
How To Request Our Holter Monitoring Services
For veterinarians: Please contact VCA at VSS via phone (1800 442 648) or email (vss@vss.net.au) to discuss the case and how best to arrange Holter monitor application, or pass on these details for your client to make an appointment with VCA.
For clients: Holter monitoring will require a referral from your veterinarian. Please contact VSS reception by phone (1800 442 648) or email (vss@vss.net.au) to make an appointment with a VCA cardiologist.
For breeders: The breed guidelines are often changing, so feel free to call or email VCA via the contact details above to discuss prior to your consultation. Dobermans and Boxers are currently the two breeds that are most commonly assessed for breeding suitability via a combination of Holter monitoring and echocardiography.