The EKG may reveal a number of arrhythmias, including premature ventricular complexes, ventricular tachycardia, atrial premature complexes, atrial or junctional tachycardia, or atrial fibrillation. Notice the irregularly, irregular rhythm and the absence of P-waves. Describe what you see on the thoracic radiograph . There are numerous pulmonary masses consistent with metastatic osteosarcoma. The treatment regimen includes digoxin, an ACE inhibitor and furosemide.
Digoxin is a positive inotrope and lowers heart rate.
Furosemide is administered as a diuretic. Beta-blocking drugs are often useful to lower the ventricular response and to provide vasodilation. The prognosis is poor. If the dog survives the first presentation, a survival of 6-12 months may be possible with careful medical management. Some patients respond well to carnitine or taurine supplementation, but the condition is usually terminal.