Retrospective review of carvedilol administration in 38 dogs with preclinical chronic valvular heart disease

Objectives: Report the effect of carvedilol administration on clinical and echocardiographic parameters and outcome in dogs with preclinical (ACVIM Stage B) chronic valvular heart disease (CVD). Animals, materials and methods: Retrospective case series of 38 client-owned dogs. Demographic, physical examination and diagnostic imaging findings, blood pressure (BP), administration details and outcome were obtained from medical records of dogs receiving carvedilol for preclinical CVD. When possible, additional follow-up information was obtained through telephone interviews with referring veterinarians and owners. Results: Baseline data and follow-up were evaluated. Median and interquartile range (IQR) for age and weight were 8.6 (7.2-10.8) years and 8.5 (7.6-9.6) kg. 14/38 were male; 33/38 were Cavalier King Charles Spaniels; 33/38 had Stage B2 CVD. The initial dose of carvedilol was 0.31 (0.26-0.35) mg/kg PO twice daily. The carvedilol dose achieved following up titration was 1.11 (0.81-1.32) mg/kg twice daily. No adverse effects were recorded during up titration. Median survival for all dogs was 48.5 months with a 95% CI of 38.3-58.6. Conclusions: This study suggests that carvedilol at the dose reported herein is well tolerated in small breed dogs with preclinical CVD. Prospective studies to evaluate efficacy are warranted.