Information for Owners
So your pet is getting a Holter monitor attached, how does this affect you?
- It is best to get a Holter monitor attached to your dog whilst you are available to supervise them. Whilst the Holter monitor is in your possession you are liable for any damage.
- If you are worried that your pet may chew or damage the Holter monitor you can either put on a buster collar or take off the Holter when you leave them. Some veterinary surgeons are happy to hospitalise your pet for the duration of the recording but this may affect your pets behaviour and therefore the recording is less likely to be representative of their usual heart rate and rhythm.
- The Holter monitor attaches onto a harness which is then covered with a t-shirt and a water resistant coat. This is to protect the Holter monitor from being scratched or chewed.
- It is essential that a small amount of hair (approximately 10cm by 10cm) is clipped from your pet’s chest for this procedure to allow the adhesive electrodes to have good contact with the skin.
- Whilst the Holter monitor is attached you will be given a diary sheet to fill in and the more information that you can fill in the better.
- It is still possible for your pet to carry on its normal exercise routine but don’t let them near water especially if they enjoy a swim. The jacket is only water resistant so if it is raining heavily please postpone your walk.
- If the Holter monitor starts beeping whilst attached it usually means there is a problem. Remove the coat and t-shirt and check that all three leads are attached securely to the electrodes. It may be necessary to replace the electrodes especially if the Holter monitor is on for 7 days. If the Holter monitor is still beeping then contact your vet for more advice.
- If you are responsible for removing the Holter monitor please don’t use scissors as it is easy to cut the leads.
Holter monitoring is only available through your veterinary surgeon or the referring cardiologist.