Cardiology

Dr. Omri Belachsen is a board-certified veterinary cardiologist (Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine – Companion Animals, Cardiology). He graduated with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and went on to complete a rigorous residency in cardiology at a leading European specialist centre, where he trained extensively in advanced diagnostic imaging, interventional cardiology, and management of complex heart disease in small animals.

At Beecroft Animal Specialist & Emergency Hospital, our Cardiology & Interventional Cardiology Department provides specialist heart care for dogs, cats, and small mammals across Singapore. We diagnose and manage heart murmurs, congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathies, congenital heart disease, arrhythmias, pulmonary hypertension, pericardial disease, and complex cardiovascular conditions using advanced diagnostic and interventional techniques.

Veterinary Cardiology Services

If your dog or cat has been diagnosed with a heart condition, you want an accurate diagnosis, a clear treatment plan and honest answers. That is what our Cardiology team is here for. At Beecroft, our veterinary cardiologist in Singapore provides specialist heart care for dogs, cats and small mammals — from heart murmurs and congestive heart failure to congenital heart disease and complex rhythm problems. Where appropriate, advanced diagnostic and minimally invasive interventional techniques can help us assess and treat heart conditions with greater precision.

Our service encompasses both medical cardiology and interventional cardiology, allowing us to provide advanced treatment options for selected congenital and acquired heart diseases. Whether your pet needs a cardiac consultation, echocardiogram, ECG, Holter monitoring, heart failure management, or assessment for an interventional cardiac procedure, our team provides clear guidance from diagnosis through long-term follow-up.

Meet Dr Omri Belachsen

Dr Omri Belachsen is a Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Cardiology), representing one of the highest levels of specialist training in veterinary cardiology.

His expertise includes:
· Advanced echocardiography
· Interventional cardiology
· Congenital heart disease
· Complex arrhythmia management
· Congestive heart failure treatment
· Minimally invasive cardiac procedures

Dr Belachsen works closely with Beecroft’s specialists in emergency and critical care, internal medicine, surgery, anaesthesia, and diagnostic imaging to provide comprehensive cardiac care.

Diagnostics & Workflow

At Beecroft, we offer a comprehensive range of cardiology and interventional cardiology services to assess your pet’s heart health and guide treatment.

Medical History & Records Review

We begin with a detailed review of your pet’s medical history. Please bring past imaging (x‑rays, ultrasound), ECGs, lab reports, and a current medication list. This background allows us to target diagnostics efficiently.

Physical Examination & Auscultation

A focused cardiac exam includes auscultation for murmurs or irregular rhythms, blood pressure measurement, pulse/perfusion assessment, and lung evaluation. These findings guide which diagnostic tools are most appropriate.

Echocardiography (Cardiac Ultrasound)

We perform comprehensive echocardiography (2D, M‑mode, Doppler, color flow, tissue Doppler) to visualise chamber sizes, wall thickness, valve motion, and blood flow. Echo is central to diagnosing structural heart disease and valve disorders.

Veterinary echocardiography is considered the gold standard for assessing heart structure and function and plays a vital role in diagnosing many cardiac diseases. If your veterinarian has recommended a veterinary echocardiogram in Singapore, Beecroft provides specialist-led cardiac ultrasound assessment with clear reporting for both pet owners and referring veterinarians.

Electrocardiography & Rhythm Monitoring

Standard ECG detects arrhythmias and conduction abnormalities. Holter monitoring (24–48 hr) captures intermittent rhythm issues; event/loop monitoring may be used selectively.

Thoracic Radiography (Chest X‑rays)

Radiographs help evaluate cardiac silhouette, lung fields, and signs of pulmonary congestion or secondary disease.

Biomarkers & Laboratory Tests

Cardiac biomarkers (e.g., NT‑proBNP, troponin) and blood panels provide supportive data and help rule out concurrent conditions.

Advanced / Interventional Diagnostics (as indicated)

Cardiac catheterisation, angiography, CT/MRI, and contrast studies are used when non‑invasive tests are inconclusive or when planning interventional procedures.

Diagnostic Report & Treatment Plan

You will receive a plain‑language visit summary covering diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and follow‑up care. A full report is forwarded to your referring veterinarian to ensure continuity of care.

Our team ensures pet owners understand their pet’s diagnosis, treatment options, prognosis, and recommended monitoring plan.

Interventional Cardiology

Some heart conditions that once required major surgery can now be treated using a small catheter and specialised devices. These minimally invasive procedures may reduce surgical trauma and support a shorter recovery. At Beecroft, interventional cardiac procedures are performed by our specialist cardiology team with anaesthesia and dedicated monitoring.

Interventional cardiology involves minimally invasive procedures designed to diagnose and treat selected heart diseases without traditional open-chest surgery.

At Beecroft, interventional cardiology procedures may include:

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) occlusion
Balloon valvuloplasty for pulmonic stenosis
Balloon valvuloplasty for aortic stenosis
Pacemaker implantation
Cardiac catheterisation
Angiography
Advanced haemodynamic assessment
Minimally invasive cardiac procedures for selected congenital or acquired conditions

These advanced procedures may provide effective treatment while reducing surgical trauma and recovery times for suitable patients.

Treatments & Interventions

Medical therapy: ACE inhibitors, diuretics, positive inotropes, antiarrhythmics, vasodilators, and tailored combinations.
Pacemaker/implantable devices for conduction block or severe rhythm disorders.
Balloon valvuloplasty and other valve interventions for appropriate stenotic lesions.
Transcatheter/minimally invasive procedures: e.g., PDA occlusion (where indicated).
Rhythm therapy including cardioversion/ablation (if available or via referral).
Supportive care: oxygen therapy, careful fluid management, nutrition, inpatient monitoring as needed.
Long‑term follow‑up: scheduled rechecks (e.g., 3–6 months), medication adjustment, repeat echo/ECG.

Every treatment plan is personalized based on your pet’s diagnosis, age, breed, lifestyle, disease stage, and overall health.

Conditions & Indications Treated

Heart murmurs & valvular disease (degenerative valve disease)
Congestive heart failure (CHF)
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Arrhythmias & conduction disorders (e.g., atrial fibrillation, AV block)
Congenital defects (e.g., PDA, septal defects)
Pulmonary hypertension
Pericardial disease & effusion
Other cardiomyopathies and complex cardiac cases
Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease (MMVD)
Pulmonic stenosis
Aortic stenosis
Ventricular septal defects (VSD)
Atrial septal defects (ASD)
Restrictive cardiomyopathy
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC)
Sick sinus syndrome
Supraventricular tachycardia
Ventricular tachycardia
Complex congenital heart disease

Breeds at Higher Risk of Heart Disease

Certain breeds are predisposed to specific cardiac conditions and may benefit from early screening and monitoring.

Dogs

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Doberman Pinschers
Boxers
Great Danes
Miniature Schnauzers
Dachshunds
Certain toy breeds

Cats

Maine Coons
Ragdolls
British Shorthairs
Sphynx Cats
Persian Cats
Mixed-breed cats with suspected cardiomyopathy

Early cardiac screening may allow earlier diagnosis, timely treatment, and improved long-term outcomes.

Why Choose Beecroft Cardiology

Specialist Expertise

Specialist expertise & credentials in veterinary cardiology.Care is led by a board-certified veterinary cardiologist with advanced training in cardiac diagnostics, interventional cardiology, and complex heart disease management.

Complete Diagnostics

Comprehensive diagnostics under one roof (echo, ECG, Holter, radiography, advanced imaging).

Multidisciplinary Care

Integrated, multidisciplinary care with internal medicine, imaging, surgery, and critical care.

Personalized Plans

Personalised treatment plans and transparent communication.

Clear Communication

Detailed reports for owners and referring veterinarians; clear follow‑up roadmap.

Advanced Technology

State‑of‑the‑art equipment and continuously updated techniques. As a specialist referral and emergency hospital, Beecroft provides access to multidisciplinary expertise and advanced facilities that support even complex cardiac patients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Animal Cardiology

When should my pet see a cardiologist?

If your pet shows persistent cough, exercise intolerance, laboured breathing, fainting episodes, or has a detected murmur/arrhythmia, a cardiology evaluation is recommended.

What tests might my pet need?

Echocardiography, ECG, chest x‑rays, Holter monitoring, blood biomarkers; advanced imaging or catheterisation as indicated.

Are cardiac treatments safe?

Risks exist with any procedure, but with specialist care, modern equipment, and careful monitoring we work to minimise risk and maximise benefit.

How often will rechecks be needed?

Commonly every 3–6 months, tailored to disease type, severity, and response.

Will my pet live a normal life?

Many pets respond well to therapy and maintain good quality of life with early detection and consistent care.

How are costs determined?

Based on necessary diagnostics and treatments. After the initial consult, you’ll receive a detailed estimate before proceeding.

What is a veterinary cardiologist?

A veterinary cardiologist is a veterinarian who has completed advanced specialist training focused on diagnosing and treating heart disease and cardiovascular disorders in animals.

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound examination of the heart used to assess heart chambers, valves, wall thickness, pumping function, and blood flow.

Can heart disease in pets be cured?

Some congenital heart defects can be corrected or significantly improved through interventional cardiology procedures. Other cardiac conditions are managed through medication, monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments.

Does my pet need a referral?

Many patients are referred by their primary veterinarian, although pet owners may also contact Beecroft directly to discuss a cardiology consultation.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring previous medical records, imaging reports, ECG results, laboratory results, referral notes, and a list of current medications.

What is the difference between a veterinary cardiologist and a general veterinarian?

A board-certified veterinary cardiologist has undergone several additional years of specialist training focused on diagnosing and treating heart disease in animals.