Animal Cardiology of Alabama

For pet owners in the Birmingham metro area and across Alabama, the heart health of a beloved companion animal is a serious concern. When your primary care veterinarian detects a heart murmur or suspects a serious cardiac condition, you need the assurance of a specialist. That is precisely where Animal Cardiology of Alabama steps in. Located conveniently in Birmingham, this practice is dedicated entirely to the diagnosis and management of heart disease in small animals, providing a specialized level of care that can significantly extend and improve the quality of life for your furry family member.

The clinic is the culmination of years of focused practice by its founder, Dr. Ingrid M. Straeter-Knowlen, Dr. med. vet. Dr. Straeter brings a wealth of international training and extensive experience, having founded her cardiac evaluation business in 1997 after serving in a cardiology fellowship and faculty position at the University of Alabama in Birmingham. Her deep knowledge and dedication to staying on top of the latest advancements are constantly working to the advantage of her patients. Clients frequently describe Dr. Straeter as "absolutely wonderful" and "so knowledgeable," with one client noting that her efforts have helped their eleven-year-old cat live longer despite having Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM).

The atmosphere at the clinic, located in Southside, is designed to be as reassuring as the care is expert. Facing a cardiac diagnosis for a pet can be incredibly nerve-wracking—a sentiment echoed by clients who were "very nervous" upon arrival with a cat presenting a heart murmur. However, the experience consistently turns out to be a positive one. The staff is consistently described as "super nice" and the level of detailed communication is exceptional. Dr. Straeter takes the time to explain everything in detail, providing both hard copy and electronic records to ensure clients are fully informed and empowered in their pet's care plan. This professional, yet compassionate, approach makes Animal Cardiology of Alabama a highly recommended veterinary specialist in the region.

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Animal Cardiology of Alabama is centrally located in the Southside area of Birmingham, making it a manageable drive for families across the greater metropolitan region, from Vestavia Hills to Homewood and beyond. The accessibility of a specialty clinic is paramount for pets that may be frail or sensitive.

• Address: 2114 10th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA
• Planning: Given the specialized and often complex nature of cardiac consultations, Appointments recommended is the standard for service to ensure adequate time and preparation for each case.

The facility is designed to be easily accessible, particularly for pets and owners who may have mobility concerns:

• Accessibility: The clinic is fully equipped with a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a Wheelchair accessible parking lot, and a Wheelchair accessible restroom.
• Amenities: A clean Restroom is available for client use during visits.

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As a specialized veterinary cardiology practice, the clinic focuses on advanced diagnostics, monitoring, and long-term medical management for all types of acquired and congenital heart conditions in small animals, primarily dogs and cats.

• Comprehensive Cardiac Diagnostics:
  • Echocardiogram (Cardiac Ultrasound): The primary, non-invasive tool to visualize the heart's structure, valve function, and blood flow patterns.
  • ECG (EKG) / Electrocardiogram: Evaluation of the heart's electrical activity and rhythm to diagnose arrhythmias.
  • Holter Monitoring (24 hr ECG): Ambulatory, non-invasive monitoring worn by the pet at home to capture intermittent rhythm disturbances over a full day.
  • Blood Pressure Check / Systemic Blood Pressure Measurement: Crucial for diagnosing and managing hypertension (high blood pressure) which can complicate heart disease.
• Diagnostic and Pre-treatment Workup:
  • Thorough Physical Examination focused on cardiac health.
  • Blood Work and other Diagnostic Tests to assess overall health and monitor the effects of cardiac medications on kidney and liver function.
  • Cardiac Tests tailored to the specific suspected condition.
• Treatment and Management:
  • Development of tailored, long-term Heartworm Prevention and treatment plans.
  • Specialized medical management for conditions like Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), and Congestive Heart Failure.
• Ancillary and Supportive Services:
  • Small animal rehabilitation services to help pets maintain mobility and strength, which is especially important for managing chronic illnesses.
  • Access to an Online Pharmacy for convenient refills of specialized cardiac medications.
• Emergency Support:
  • Emergency Pet Care services are available, primarily serving as a referral point from general practitioners for cardiac-related emergencies.

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The quality of care and client experience at Animal Cardiology of Alabama are defined by several key features that make it a premier specialty referral center in the state:

• Exclusive Cardiac Specialization: The clinic’s sole focus on veterinary cardiology ensures a high level of expertise, precision in diagnosis, and access to the most current treatment protocols for complex heart diseases.
• The Expertise of Dr. Straeter: The founder, Dr. Straeter, is highly regarded for her extensive knowledge, advanced training (including her residency-training in cardiology and fellowship at UAB), and dedication to continuing education, constantly seeking anything that could "possibly help him further" with chronic conditions like HCM.
• Advanced Diagnostic Technology: The availability of specialized equipment for non-invasive diagnostic tests, including Echocardiograms, ECG, and 24-hour Holter monitoring, ensures that pets receive the most accurate assessment of their cardiac function without delay.
• Commitment to Client Education: Dr. Straeter and her team excel at explaining everything in detail, alleviating client anxiety and ensuring pet owners leave with a full understanding of the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment plan.
• Positive, Reassuring Environment: Despite the serious nature of the patients' visits, the clinic maintains a friendly and "super nice" staff atmosphere. The team focuses on creating a calm experience for both the pet and the worried owner.
• Comprehensive Documentation: Providing a hard copy & electronic copy of records, including even a "cute pic" of the patient, demonstrates a detail-oriented approach and a dedication to seamless communication with referring veterinarians.

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If your local veterinarian has referred your pet for a cardiac evaluation, or if you suspect your pet has a heart condition, you may contact the clinic using the details below. As appointments are recommended, calling ahead is the best way to start the process.

• Address: 2114 10th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA
• Primary Phone: (205) 967-9134
• Mobile Phone (for service/scheduling): +1 205-967-9134

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Choosing Animal Cardiology of Alabama means entrusting your pet's cardiac health to one of the most dedicated specialty practices in the state. For Alabama pet owners, the value lies in accessing a practice where world-class training meets deep compassion. The leadership of Dr. Straeter, with her background in both human and veterinary cardiology research, ensures a cutting-edge approach to conditions like Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), which a client review directly credits with helping their pet "live longer." The full spectrum of advanced, non-invasive diagnostics, including Echocardiograms, ECG, and Holter monitoring, means that you will receive a precise, definitive diagnosis. Beyond the technical expertise, the commitment to excellent client communication—providing detailed explanations and full records—ensures you are an informed and confident participant in your pet's care. If your pet has a heart murmur, an arrhythmia, or any other cardiac concern, Animal Cardiology of Alabama is the trusted referral choice in Birmingham for maximizing your pet’s health and longevity.

Animal Cardiology of Alabama

2114 10th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA