Popeye is an Olde English Bulldog who visited our board-certified veterinary cardiologist, Dr. Mark Harmon, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology), at our Byron Center location after experiencing two frightening fainting (syncope) episodes.

The first episode occurred during a walk, when Popeye suddenly collapsed and began breathing heavily. He had to be carried back to the car because he couldn’t walk on his own. His primary veterinarian evaluated him immediately, and found he was back to his normal self. Systemic bloodwork showed no explanation for his episodes.

About a week later, Popeye was playing at home when he suddenly needed to lie down again, once more becoming short of breath. This episode lasted only a few minutes. The following day, he came inside after playing in the snow, appearing winded and unsteady on his feet. Thankfully, his appointment with Dr. Harmon was already scheduled just a few days later.

During his cardiology consultation, Dr. Harmon performed a cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram) and evaluated Popeye’s heart rate and rhythm using an electrocardiogram (ECG). The ECG showed abnormalities in rhythm with frequent spikes in his heart rate even while he was calmly resting. Based on these findings, Dr. Harmon suspected Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC), a disease of the heart muscle most commonly seen in Boxers, but also in Bulldogs and American Staffordshire Terriers. ARVC is a genetic heart condition that typically begins to show signs in middle-aged dogs.

To help control Popeye’s arrhythmia, Dr. Harmon prescribed two cardiac medications. As part of his comprehensive cardiology care, Popeye was fitted for Holter monitor that he wore at home for the next few days to determine whether his heart rhythm had improved. The monitor collected continuous heart rhythm information that Dr. Harmon was able to analyze afterward. Fortunately, the medications significantly improved the frequency of abnormal beats. Going forward, Popeye will return every six months for a Holter evaluation to ensure his heart continues to be well controlled with his medication.

Quote from Kim, Pet Parent

“Dr. Harmon and the rest of the staff are absolutely wonderful. They all have great bedside manner and obviously have the knowledge and experience of taking care of our fur babies. They all took great care of Popeye. He felt completely at ease, as did we! The office environment is also very friendly and supportive.”