Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is the test painful?

    Holter monitoring is not painful for your pet. The monitor is attached by three adhesive electrodes in the same way that it would be placed on a human patient. The monitor is about the same shape and size as an iPod, weighs about 150g and is held in a small pouch on the dog’s back attached to a harness. As the electrodes are glued in place, it is advisable to leave them to peel off naturally rather than pulling them off as this could result in a brief period of discomfort for your pet.
  • What if the equipment is damaged?

    You are responsible for the care of the equipment whilst it is attached to your pet. The padded monitor case, jacket and t-shirt should prevent damage by the dog wearing the monitor but, in multi-pet households, it may be necessary to separate the dog wearing the monitor from the other dogs as they may try to dislodge the monitor.
  • Do I need a deposit?

    Your practice will ask you to sign a consent form and may also request credit card pre-authorisation or a deposit prior to the monitor being placed on your dog. Please discuss this with your veterinary surgeon or cardiologist prior to submitting a request form.
  • How much does it cost?

    Contact us with the fax number of your local veterinary surgeon and we will fax or email them an up to date pricelist and request form.
  • Will my dog need other tests?

    Holter Monitoring is just one part of the investigation of heart disease and therefore it is likely that your dog will require other tests such as echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart), chest x-rays and blood sample(s).
  • What if my dog does not collapse whilst wearing the monitor?

    Obviously if the dog collapses whilst wearing the monitor, it should be possible to document the heart rate and rhythm at the time and thereby rule in or rule out an abnormal heart rhythm as a cause of the collapse. However, even if the dog does not exhibit clinical signs whilst wearing the monitor, useful information can still be obtained as many dogs with intermittent heart rhythm problems require a prolonged period of the abnormal rhythm to exhibit collapse but will still have short paroxysms of the abnormal rhythm throughout the day.