Cardiologists at the Texas A&M Small Animal Teaching Hospital (SATH) recently performed a life-saving procedure on Sissy, a service dog from Louisville, Kentucky.
Diagnosed with a third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, Sissy’s heart was unable to maintain a proper rhythm, causing her heart rate to drop to a dangerous 35 beats per minute (bpm) — far below the normal range for dogs. Thanks to a donated pacemaker and swift intervention, Sissy received the care she needed to survive.
The AV block, a condition where electrical signals fail to pass through the heart properly, left Sissy’s heart unable to beat efficiently. Without the pacemaker, she was at risk of collapsing and even death.
Dr. Samantha Eisner, a second-year cardiology resident at SATH, led the team that placed the pacemaker, explaining that it bypasses the damaged heart node and stimulates the heart to beat regularly.
Sissy, initially trained to help her owner, Robert “Bobby” Harrod, with diabetes, had recently started assisting him with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
During a routine checkup, her low heart rate was discovered, leading to a diagnosis that required urgent intervention. Harrod wasted no time, reaching out to Texas A&M’s renowned veterinary cardiology program for help, and made the journey to the hospital just 17 hours after diagnosis.
The Texas A&M team, which included fourth-year veterinary student Everett Lowenstein, successfully implanted the pacemaker, restoring Sissy’s heart rate and her ability to serve Harrod.
In addition to the life-saving procedure, Harrod received financial assistance through the Veterinary Valor Program, designed to support military members, veterans, and first responders in caring for their pets.
Following the surgery, Harrod expressed his immense gratitude for the support. “I am very thankful,” he said.
“There are people who support retired first responders like me and dogs who suddenly need a cardiologist like Sissy.” He added that without the financial aid provided by Texas A&M, he wouldn’t have been able to afford the unexpected expenses.
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Conclusion
The successful treatment of Sissy at Texas A&M underscores the importance of advanced veterinary care for service animals.
The swift response and community support, made possible by programs like Veterinary Valor and Heart Trust, allowed Sissy to return to her life-saving duties for Bobby.
This heartwarming story highlights the crucial role of service animals and the dedication of those who care for them.
FAQs
1. What is third-degree AV block in dogs?
Third-degree AV block occurs when electrical signals fail to travel properly through the heart, causing an abnormally low heart rate, which can lead to collapse or even death if untreated.
2. How was Sissy’s condition diagnosed?
Sissy was diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (EKG), which confirmed that her heart was not receiving proper electrical conduction, indicating third-degree AV block.
3. What role did the pacemaker play in Sissy’s recovery?
The pacemaker bypassed the damaged heart node and restored her heart’s ability to beat regularly, saving her life.
4. What financial assistance did Bobby Harrod receive?
Harrod received aid from the Veterinary Valor Program, which supports veterans and first responders with financial assistance for their pets’ medical care.
5. What is the Heart Trust program?
Heart Trust is a program that supports the cardiovascular health of companion animals through clinical trials and donations, helping to fund life-saving treatments like Sissy’s.
6. How long did it take Bobby and Sissy to get help after the diagnosis?
Harrod reached out to Texas A&M and arrived at the hospital 17 hours after Sissy’s diagnosis, ensuring she received prompt treatment for her life-threatening condition.
