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German Shepherd Dog Inherited Ventricular Arrhythmia and Shiloh Shepherds
Holter Monitor
WHAT IS A HOLTER MONITOR
A Holter monitor is a noninvasive method of continuously recording a dog's heart rate and heart rhythm on an electrocardiogram (ECG). The monitor is worn for 24 hours or longer and during normal activity. The data recorded by the monitor is sent for analysis by a Certified Technician or Cardiologist and a report is generated. This report indicates the number of PVCs (Premature Ventricular Contractions) detected during the 24-hour period.
WHAT IS NORMAL
The normal heart rate for dogs varies based on the size of the dog, however the general range is 60–160 beats per minute.
PVCs appear to be somewhat common in dogs so a low number is acceptable as there are temporary conditions that may cause them to occur. A PVC score of zero or very close to zero is the best result.
Large numbers of single PVCs or PVCs in pairs or runs are cause for concern. These affect the heart output which has consequences for the health of the dog. The heart has to work extra hard to compensate or the body and brain gets insufficient blood supply.
Single - 1 PVC | Pairs - 2 PVCs together | Runs - 3 or more PVCs together
Less than 50 PVCs in a 24 hour period is considered normal as long as any PVCs recorded are not in runs.
Between 50 - 100 PVCs (not in runs) is acceptable as long as the results are consistent when re-tested. Re-testing is necessary as the disease progresses over time and repeating the Holter test every year or two is recommended.
More than 100 PVCs during the 24 hour period can be considered as having the disease and the dog will be likely to pass it on to their progeny.
PVCs appear to be somewhat common in dogs so a low number is acceptable as there are temporary conditions that may cause them to occur. A PVC score of zero or very close to zero is the best result.
Large numbers of single PVCs or PVCs in pairs or runs are cause for concern. These affect the heart output which has consequences for the health of the dog. The heart has to work extra hard to compensate or the body and brain gets insufficient blood supply.
Single - 1 PVC | Pairs - 2 PVCs together | Runs - 3 or more PVCs together
Less than 50 PVCs in a 24 hour period is considered normal as long as any PVCs recorded are not in runs.
Between 50 - 100 PVCs (not in runs) is acceptable as long as the results are consistent when re-tested. Re-testing is necessary as the disease progresses over time and repeating the Holter test every year or two is recommended.
More than 100 PVCs during the 24 hour period can be considered as having the disease and the dog will be likely to pass it on to their progeny.
SAMPLE REPORTS
This report shows an abnormal amount of irregular beats. The dog will live a healthy life without heart medication.
This report shows a few irregular beats so a second test was completed. The second report shows no irregular beats.
This report shows no irregular heartbeats.
WHERE TO RENT
Below is a list of where you can buy or rent a Holter Monitor. There are also Shiloh Shepherd Breeders that have purchased their own Holter Monitor. Please contact your breeder for more information.
HOW TO USE
Holter monitoring is not painful for your pet. The monitor is about the same size and shape as an iPhone and weighs approximately 7 oz. The monitor is attached to the dog by leads and adhesive electrodes in the same way that it would be placed on a human patient. It is then placed in a small pouch on the dog’s back. A vest wraps around the dogs chest to protect the leads and electrodes and the pouch is held in place by a velcro strap or can be attached to a harness. Special care should be taken when removing the electrodes from the skin since they are glued in place.
These web sites offer a great explanation of how to attach the Holter Monitor and also contain pictures and videos as well as other helpful information about the process.
These web sites offer a great explanation of how to attach the Holter Monitor and also contain pictures and videos as well as other helpful information about the process.
Below are some Shiloh Shepherds wearing the Holter Monitor and protective vest.
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HOLTER MONITOR |