Veterinary professionals at the University of Pennsylvania work together to care for a resilient canine with a stricken heart
After an overnight stay at the veterinary hospital, Elizabeth Mauldin's beloved pet parrot, Little Dove, was able to return home. The journey, however, was far from ordinary.
Little Dove, a vibrant and lively pet, was found to be severely sluggish and her temperature was below normal. During a routine examination, it was also noticed that her legs were cold. These symptoms were concerning, and further tests were conducted.
Blood tests revealed readings of concern for Little Dove's liver and kidneys. An electrocardiogram, performed by Elizabeth Snyder, a third-year internal medicine resident, revealed a heart-stopping discovery - Little Dove was in ventricular tachycardia, a very dangerous and fast heart rhythm. Her heart rate climbed over 300 during the examination.
With Little Dove's life hanging in the balance, Mary Beth Callan, a senior Penn Vet internist, was called in to examine the parrot. The diagnosis was myocarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle. The underlying cause, however, was not immediately clear.
The zoonosis possibly causing myocarditis in Little Dove is Chlamydia psittaci infection, also known as psittacosis. This bacterial infection is known to affect birds and can potentially be transmitted to humans. However, the exact cause of Little Dove's myocarditis remains undetermined, and it could potentially be a vector-borne ailment.
Little Dove underwent treatment, which included a dose of lidocaine to lower her heart rate. Thankfully, her appetite has returned, and she is sleeping more than usual, signs of slow but steady recovery.
Unfortunately, a week later, Little Dove exhibited similar symptoms and was brought into the emergency room again. During her stay, she had another tachycardia episode. Despite the setbacks, Little Dove continues to be monitored and treated with several medications.
Elizabeth Mauldin, a dermatopathologist at Penn's School of Veterinary Medicine, remains hopeful for Little Dove's recovery. Little Dove, a cherished companion, enjoys her walks, her dog friends, and her people. This resilient bird's spirit continues to inspire those around her, as she battles through her health challenges.
