Rocco Hosker

Rocco had always had a good bill of health, every vets visit they confirmed all was well. But then they confirmed he had developed a heart murmur, was on the scale of 2 - 3 out of 6 so was told nothing too serious to worry about and they said no need to follow up. (I'd recommend anyone now to follow up with a cardiologist as the earlier caught the better) Fast forward 3 months and it all started when Rocco who is super energetic, was in the garden. I was feeding the birds and he liked to run off with bits of bread as a game.

He suddenly started to stumble and look like he was choking. I picked him up and tried to look into his mouth but couldn't see anything, he stopped breathing. I had to think quickly as there was no time to get to the vet. I decided to resuscitate him myself. I put my mouth over his nose and mouth as hes only small, and blew in. I felt his chest expand. I then used his body weight over my hand on his chest to let the air come back out. On 3rd attempt he coughed and came round. He had wet himself so he looked more embarrassed and confused than anything else. I thought he had merely choked on a piece of the bread.

6 hours later he was back to his normal self so went to take him for a walk, we got about one house length away and he started to stumble again. I managed to pick him up and calm him. He was struggling to breath again so I blew in his mouth for him again which was enough to help. This frightened me as was obviously more than choking on food. I took him straight to my vets which have an emergency after hours clinic and astonishingly they turned us away as 'he looked fine now' I wasn’t happy with that so next morning after not sleeping all through the night I took him to a new vet. They immediately got an x-ray done confirming he had heart disease. Was told like many vets would at the time that it would eventually claim his life and that he'd be on medication till then as there was nothing else anyone could do.

I was devastated. Rocco had been my soulmate and got me through some of the darkest times, he was the light in my cave. I knew I needed to help him back. I went home and searched the internet endlessly trying to find any way I could to help prolong his life. Natural remedies, treatments, exercises.....anything! I then stumbled across someone's post on Facebook about the disease and a lady had commented about Dr Uechi and that he'd been performing successful surgeries. I starting researching him and found an article about this man who saved his dog with the surgery. After speaking to the newspaper journalist I managed to track the guy down and get his story myself. He also gave me Dr Uechi’s details.

He was doing the surgery in Japan and France. I couldn't afford the cost so I started a campaign to try and raise the money. I was laughed at, mocked and made to feel stupid by some, I ignored them as nothing was going to stop me. It showed who the beautiful people in my life were too, who stood by me and helped me. I was only half way in raising funds and Rocco started to deteriorate. He had less and less time. His heart disease progressed extremely quickly. I had to resuscitate him twice more and ended up taking him to the vet where they'd increased his medication to stabilize him. Best thing was to keep him as calm as possible, to keep his heart at a slower pace. In the meantime I realized I was never going to save enough money for the surgery. But I then found out Dr Uechi had trained one UK Vet, Dr. Dan Brockman.

I contacted Dan and he agreed to see us right away. He was very honest and humble saying he'd not been doing the procedure very long so statistically the odds were lower. I knew it was a higher risk but I was running out of time and options. I tried saving a bit longer and was even working two full time jobs, I was exhausted. Rocco took a turn for the worst, myself and my vet Dr. Mark Oakley managed to stabilize him one last time as the meds were now at full throttle. I put one last pledge out to everyone I knew. I had no time left so I put all my faith into Dr. Dan Brockman and the team to do the surgery. Luckily a beautiful friend of mine said she would lend me what I was short by so we got Rocco booked into surgery asap as a last minute slot opened up.

The night before the surgery, I had many negative mean comments online from people left, right and center. One even told me off for not having Dr Uechi do it etc. I was starting to doubt and question everything now. 'Do I just keep Rocco going another month? maybe two so I get to have his final moments with him?' Or 'do I risk the operation which could possibly save his life?' It makes sense to take the leap of faith considering he was dying anyway. Yet the thought of going through it all and losing him anyway and not having those last few days, weeks or maybe months was devastating. Then I realized that I would always regret not trying to save his life. If it didn’t work then at least I knew I tried the best of my ability to save him.

Luckily I'd met some wonderful people online who'd gone through the same thing, one being Nate Estes. He was there for me on the phone whilst I was in tears the night before the surgery after dealing with all those negative cruel people. Nate comforted and reassured me what was important and helped to calm me and keep me focused for the surgery to come. We were all in a group and it was starting to have quite a lot of people join so they decided to make the Mighty Hearts Project Facebook group and page so no one would ever be alone or uninformed again. A lot of people were rapidly joining who were in the same boat as I, so they started following mine and Rocco’s story. It was a new venture with the RVC also, so all were rooting for them and us. So all were sending positive comments and messages which really helped me through it all.....don’t know what I would have done without them!

The day of the surgery I was numb, was the longest wait ever. But to my delight, Rocco made it through. He even made it through the first night. They were starting to get him eating and gave him a lovely variety of food. Although Rocco had a funny habit.....he loved baked beans! He even stole my baked beans which I'd left on the side the morning before surgery at the hotel. If there were beans he’d sniff them out. I gave a can to the RVC team. We wash the sauce off (as can contain too much sugar) and he would eat the beans. The team found it hilarious how much he actually liked them so he'd have them alongside his chicken and other food.

Even on his road to recovery he was still his usual character. But was not over yet, Rocco suffered a blood clot go to the brain so had suffered seizures. They'd increased his meds and helped stabilize him. Unfortunately he had two more seizures. He went blind and had suffered what appeared to be brain damage as was not himself. They warned me he may never get his sight back or go back to normal. I was devastated, but at least he was still going. They had slowly been adjusting his medication and had managed to get Rocco stabilized for the seizures to stop and he started to get better. Luckily his eyesight slowly came back. He was still not himself though, was acting more like a puppy seeing me and everything for the first time. I was allowed to take him home. I watched him get stronger and better.

Then one morning, as I woke up, I saw him notice and then come jump up at me like he used to with his paws on my chest. Could see in his eyes and mannerisms that he was back. His little personality so happy to see me. Was like his memory had come back. Was such a happy day. He even went searching for my baked beans, so knew he was definitely himself again! Since then he went from strength to strength. Dan Brockman and his team was absolutely amazing with him and I had no reason to worry.

He is now one of the leading specialists for the procedure and has saved many dogs lives. Rocco is now off all meds and has had good news at all health checks. I'm now glad I didn’t listen to the negative comments as Rocco was a pivot point in history and gave hope to so many. He is the RVC’s poster boy and I hope always a beacon of light to anyone considering surgery. The op was over 2 years ago and hes still going strong!

The mighty hearts group is now bigger than ever and are there for anyone else unfortunate enough to have to deal with this horrible disease. The knowledge, support and kindness they provide is invaluable. I now have a 1 year old son who Rocco gets to play with and they adore each other. Was so worth it. Whatever was to happen, I am so glad I tried. Thank goodness for Dr Uechi and his procedure and the likes of Dr. Dan Brockman, Poppy Bristow and the RVC team. They all have the willingness to do whatever it takes. Thank you.

Kind regards,

Samantha & Rocco Hosker

Breed: Long haired Chihuahua cross Jack Russell
Age: 8, now 10
Diagnosis: Stage D Surgery Date: July 24th , 2017
Hometown: London, UK Owner: Samantha Hosker Cardiologist : Dr. Mark Oakley at Kynoch Vets Surgical Team: RVC, Dr. Dan Brockman & Dr. Poppy Bristow

Samy Rodriguez

In September 2018, Samy had an episode of congestive heart failure. After a visit from his Vet, David made calls to obtain all information he could find on MVR. Fortunately, David connected with Nate Estes who recommended that we contact Dr. Masami Uechi at the JASMINE Clinic as an option for Samy’s surgery. David began researching the requirements and process for a possible trip to Japan for Samy’s procedure.

On October 25, 2018, David sent an email message to JASMINE Clinic, Attention: Dr. Masami Uechi. Samy’s medical information was provided to Dr. Uechi from his Vet Cardiologist, Dr. Yuhas. Dr. Uechi in return sent us information regarding the Quarantine process, payment and screening tests required before a determination can be made if Samy would be a candidate for surgery

On January 8, 2019 we received notification from JASMINE Clinic of tentative dates for Samy. His Pre-op appointment was scheduled for April 18 at 1:00 pm and Mitral Valve Repair surgery was scheduled for April 22 at 11:00 am.

An issue that we needed to address was having to register Samy as an Emotional Support Animal in order to have him in the cabin for the flight over to Japan. On February 7 we registered Samy with ESA Registration of America, completed a questionnaire and followed-up with a conference call with the ES Therapist. This process was necessary so that the Emotional Support Letter could be issued and presented to the ANA Airline special services representative, This was necessary to ensure our Samy could safely travel in the cabin without risking his health during our travel.

Arrangements were confirmed with Ms. Atsuko Kojima for use of an AirBnb apartment in Azamino for our dates requested. During this time, required forms were completed and sent to the Chief Animal Quarantine Services at Haneda Airport, Japan. A very helpful recommendation from Nate Estes was to arrange transportation from the Pet Taxi Services provided by Mr. Izu.

On April 9 we received approval from USA Agricultural Services, with certification and seal on our Import documents for the Animal Quarantine Services.

On April 15 we arrived in Tokyo, Haneda Airport. We went directly to the Animal Quarantine Services area and provided the required paperwork for approval. We were also given the export quarantine certificate form to complete and told to make appointment prior to departure from Japan.

We attended Samy’s pre-op appointment with Dr. Sayaka Takeuchi on April 18. Samy’s surgery date was confirmed for April 23 at 7:00 am. Dr. Takeuchi provided us with a very comprehensive explanation of the MVR surgical procedure. Everything up to this point had been very stressful and something of an emotional challenge. This meeting was just as traumatic. It was here when you realize that the decision that you made regarding the life of your fur baby is really going to take place.

On April 23 at 6:30 am, Ms. Atsuko Kojima picked us up from the apartment and drove us to Samy’s 7 am appointment at JASMINE Clinic. He was shaved and prepped and a few hours after his surgery we met with Dr. Uechi who reviewed the procedure and the before and after images of his heart.

Once Samy started eating and his complete blood count numbers improved, he was discharged on April 28. His discharge medications were Clopidogrel 25 mg for 30 days and Rivaroxaban 10 mg for 6 days. No cardiac medication necessary. He was put on strict rest and given his Post-op review appointment schedule – Appointments were on May 2, 4, and 11. On his last appointment at JASMINE Clinic Samy was cleared to travel back home.

On May 12 we had an appointment scheduled with the Animal Quarantine Service at Haneda Airport for final paperwork to approve export to USA. Mr. Izu, Pet Taxi took us to this appointment.

We arrived at Haneda Airport on May 14 at 9:20 pm for our 12:15 am departure to Los Angeles.

Samy’s first appointment with his Primary Care vet was on May 23. At that time the plan was to keep Samy with limited activity and continue giving him the Pimobendan.

On June 10 Samy had his first appointment with his Vet Cardiologist. The evaluation was very good and our Cardiologist indicated that she would communicate her findings with Dr. Sayaka Takeuchi and discuss future plans for care.

At the August 6 appointment with Samy’s Vet Cardiologist, he was taken off all medication and recommended that he start taking short walks every other day.

Our journey has been a long and stressful one, but we thank God for Samy’s surgery and recovery. We would like to express our appreciation for all the support and prayers we received during our amazing journey. Special thanks to Nate Estes, Drs. Uechi, Takeuchi and Takemura, Atsuko Kojima and Mr. Izu, from Pet Taxi Service.

For anyone with specific questions about Samy’s clinical experiences, please feel free to contact us through the Mighty Hearts website.

May God Bless Mighty Hearts Friends and their Furry Babies.

David and Dolores Rodriguez

Breed: Chihuahua Mix Age: 11 Diagnosis: Stage C Surgery Date: April 23rd, 2019 Hometown: Covina, CA Owner: Dolores and David Rodriguez Primary Vet: Dr. Joni Nasser, Community Companion Animal Hospital Cardiologist: Dr. Danielle Yuhas, , VCA Advanced Veterinary Care Center Surgical Team: Dr. Masami Uechi & Team at, Jasmine Cardiovascular Medical Center

Jager Howard

Jager’s story started in early March of 2019, I began to notice that Jager seemed to be tired and out of breath quickly and each time he laid down to rest, his breathing resembled that of a dog who just ran a mile. Ten months prior, Jager underwent surgery to be neutered and have dental work and had NO health issues at this time. I truly thought and believed that he had gained a pound or two since being neutered, in this case weight gain could have potentially cause his rapid breathing (similar to an overweight human running up a flight of stairs). However, in early March, Jager had a coughing episode that ended with a “goose honk” noise. I happened to have my phone in hand when he had this coughing spell, and I recorded it. I decided to take him in for his yearly visit a few months early. We went in to see Dr. Winter, and Jager seemed well and initially we thought sinus issues and allergies, because in North Carolina, pollen is AWFUL that time of year. Thank goodness for technology and the video of the coughing spell! After showing Dr. Winter the video, she said let’s take a radiograph to be sure nothing is wrong since there is coughing.

Immediately, she had concerns but wasn’t sure what exactly was going on. The x-ray was sent to a radiologist who confirmed that Jager was in congestive heart failure at only the age of 6. Dr. Winter suggested that we see a cardiologist so we took Jager into North Carolina State University a few days after diagnosis. We drove 2.5 hours up to Raleigh to see Dr. Anna MacManamey who did an echocardiogram, new thoracic x-ray, bloodwork, etc. She confirmed that Jager had been in congestive heart failure a few days prior, but it seemed to be cleared up now. Jager’s Mitral Valve Disease was considered to be Stage C since he had already had an episode of congestive heart failure. Dr. Mac also diagnosed Jager with a class 4/6 heart murmur. Jager was prescribed furosemide and pimobendan by Dr. Winter, his primary vet prior to seeing his cardiologist. Dr. Mac made a slight change in the dosages that were previously prescribed and added enalapril. Dr. Mac mentioned surgery being available overseas and that it was very costly. Immediately, I ruled out the option due to finances. After a few days, friends could tell that this was really affecting me and encouraged me to research the MVR surgery and dig deeper to see if it could be an option.

I reached out to the University of Florida Veterinary Hospital who already had 50-70 dogs on a waiting list and had no certain date of when they would start the surgery program. I also emailed the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London and heard back from them only a few days later. I had everything sent over to them. The RVC quickly setup a phone conference with Dr. Dan Brockman to discuss the surgery. The conversation went well, and Dr. Brockman believed that Jager’s young age would aid in his recovery (and he was right!!!!). Only a day or two later, I heard back from the RVC with a surgery date of only 10 weeks away when I was expecting to receive a surgery date 6 months away. Prior to surgery, Jager did have few episodes where his medications had to be adjusted. There were many sleepless nights of waking up from hearing the slightest noise and counting respiratory rates and crying wondering if he would make it to his surgery date. Along the way, I met a friend who lives only 10 minutes away who had taken her dog to RVC for surgery just a few months prior, and I truly believe this was a sign from God that I was doing the right thing.

She helped me with the paperwork process and even watched Jager for me on some days that I had to work.  I had friends who stopped by my home to let him relieve his bladder while being on furosemide and helped to give him mid-day medications. I truly believe PTSD is real when it comes to having a dog with MVD.  Any cough or odd noise causes worry that this disease could be taking over his heart again. Jagers pre-operative visit, surgery, and all of his post-operative phone calls went amazing. We could not have asked for a better outcome.  Looking back, I can’t believe how fast the time went. Nate has been amazing to Jager and me as I’ve sent so many Facebook messages at all hours crying tears worrying if we would make it to surgery. This is easily the craziest roller coaster I’ve ever ridden.  Many days I felt like I was drowning, but that doesn’t compare to all of the love and smiles we are continuing to share due to a successful MVR surgery.  Thank you for everything you’ve done for us, Mighty Hearts!

Jager is now 8 weeks post-operative MVR surgery, and he is doing absolutely amazing.  He has no coughing spells, resting respiratory rate is continuously in the low 20’s and he has so much energy now, my little boy is back! 

AndreAnna & Jager

Breed: Maltese/Yorkie Age: 6 Diagnosis: Stage C Surgery Date: June 11th, 2019 Hometown: North Carolina, USA Owner: Andreanna Howard Primary Vet: Dr. Sami Winter, Capeside Animal Hospital Cardiologist: Dr. Anna MacManamey , North Carolina State University Veterinary Hospital Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Noah Jordan Camper Evitts

Noah had not been himself around the holidays (November/December of 2018). He had a general intolerance for too much activity which was in stark contrast to his usual disposition.

We took him in to see his regular doctor and after a quick listen to his heartbeat it was discovered that he had a heart murmur! That observation threw us into PANIC MODE. We immediately scheduled an appointment with a cardiologist. After an echo that fateful Tuesday the doctor came back to us with the diagnosis of M V D. We were dumbfounded confused and heartbroken. The cardiologist did tell us that surgery to correct EXISTED but as far as she knew it was only in Japan! She pulled a bag of meds from her pocket and said this would help Noah and keep him comfortable.

After tears, long hard sobs, prayers and with great effort I began poking around on the Internet. I found the Mighty Hearts Project and immediately signed up for the Florida project that had not yet taken off. In the interim we were consumed with Noah's ability to stay well long enough for the long long wait. Nate Estes helped guide me through the nightmare obstacle course and shortly thereafter we set forth on the daunting task of preparing for surgery for Noah out of the country. We decided on London after having a phone consultation with Dr. Dan Brockman and Poppy Bristow.

We were completely freaked out when we were told that October 11 would be the fastest appointment for surgery, shortly thereafter September 2 was given to us because of a sudden cancellation. As we were already in frequent dialogue with the R V C - they then offered us June 11 for a surgery date (we got about a week's notice). We were stressed financially to make it all happen and to get everything in order such as, the USDA paperwork, blood tests, type, echoes, airfare, hotel, request (more like demand) for time off from work - but it all worked out!

Dr. Brockman and Dr. Poppy Bristow saved our baby boy Noah. During the day of surgery I stayed inside a church begging and pleading for God not to take him from us. I visited every second I could. Slept next to him for every visit every day for as long as they would let me until they had to throw me out.

Noah came out of that surgery repaired! His heart had been surgically edited and he had an almost immediate change in demeanor. His follow up blood work - great. His follow up echo - a decrease in size of his heart and left ventricle. Is he perfect yet - no. But with lots of tender loving care, close monitoring, education (for us) about what to do what not to do ... holistic intervention etc. - he is doing pretty amazing! We hope to keep him going in that direction. His 2nd echo is in September - we will keep you posted.

We feel as though we were given a great gift from God. Noah is our child (as are our other fur and feather babies). There is NOTHING we would not have done to try to save him. We are just grateful for Dr. Brockman and his team. Grateful for Nate Estes. Grateful for this group and this website. But most of all - grateful to God for saving our Noah.

God bless us all and all of you. I pray everyone's fur babies have the love they so richly deserve, the chance to be loved and for a long healthy happy life.

Breed: Bichon Frise Age: 11 Diagnosis: Stage C Surgery Date: June 11th, 2019 Hometown: Illinois Owner: Patricia & Joseph Evitts Primary Vet: Dr Lisa Weaver, River Heights Veterinary Clinic Cardiologist: Dr. Lydia Soydan , VCA Aurora Animal Hospital Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

JoJo Reynolds

It all started with a cough….a cough that occurred when JoJo was excited.  Initially I didn’t think anything of it, as it was almost like he had something stuck in his throat, and at the worst maybe collapsed trachea.  But it persisted, and got worse.  JoJo was in perfect health, ideal weight, and not a care in the world.  We knew he had a heart murmur from day one….but I was uneducated as to what that meant for a dog as I also have a heart murmur, and it is in no way detrimental to my health.  So on the day we brought JoJo in for the cough, I had no idea I would be walking out with a death sentence.  In fact, I had always been the most scared of cancer as a diagnosis…. turns out there are more options for treatment for cancer than there are for this horrible diagnosis we all know as MVD.

My vet took JoJo back for some x-rays and returned telling me that he was in heart failure and most likely would not make it more than 6 months, and that we would medicate with increased dosages as the disease worsened until the medication would no longer help.  I was totally shocked and could not accept that.  Basically I said, “oh, hell no”.  It so happened that same day I had a cardiology appointment for myself and talked with my doctor about all the options available for humans with a similar condition.  Once I heard the myriad of options, I was even more determined to find help.  This was October 16, 2018 and JoJo had just turned 11 the prior month.

I frantically googled, called, googled some more, and found Mighty Hearts Project, made more calls, did more googling, drove my chosen cardiologist crazy, drove my vet crazy, and ended up starting the two quarantine procedures and scheduled surgery dates at both RVC and Jasmine for the beginning of May, about 6 months from the original diagnosis, the dreaded 6 months my vet had originally warned me of.  JoJo was put on the cocktail of meds we are all familiar with by now, and he actually stopped coughing the same day he was diagnosed.  I then started limiting his activity immediately, with the thought that the less his heart had to beat before the surgery, the better chance he would have.  We didn’t allow visitors, closed all our blinds, and hunkered down to as little stimulation as possible.  I made a checklist of everything that needed to be accomplished before May and did everything I could do in advance as soon as was humanly possible, hoping that I would get that option for an earlier date. On January 16th I got an e-mail offering me a date of February 18th.  Needless to say by the end of the day I had flights and lodging in the works and my cardio and vet both informed and on deck for the next steps. I couldn’t have done this so quickly without their complete and generous cooperation and willingness to learn about what was happening.

JoJo had his surgery on February 18th and it was a success. No serious complications and we were back home in early March. The team at the RVC is hands down the best medical team I have ever dealt with human or otherwise. No contest. They made me feel a part of their family and that they really cared about JoJo and me as well. They went out of their way to make us both comfortable physically and emotionally, every step of the way. I will always cherish the time I spent at the RVC and in Harpenden at Harpenden House with Tony McFarland. All the people that were part of this journey, from the taxi drivers to the customs agents, it’s really quite amazing looking back on it…amazing and miraculous. We are now coming up on our 6 month check-up here in August. I will always be nervous about every single check-up that he has from here until our last day together, but I wouldn’t trade the time I have with him for anything. He is back to living his happy life. The best money I ever spent…..JoJo is currently on no medications and we are working him back up to his normal activity level. His heart is in normal size range and was from almost immediately after surgery.

I know I would not have been able to do this so quickly and efficiently without the help and support from the Mighty Hearts group and those who came before me in this journey. There is so much emotion involved in each and every step in this journey. At times it was quite overwhelming. The days leading up to surgery and the surgery day were by far the most difficult days. Some of the most difficult of my entire life if not the most! There is so much support here from this group. I can never repay… though I think of how to every day. How to pay back all the kindness from everyone that was part of JoJo’s journey. I keep spreading the word and supporting those trying to make this an option for all those in need.

Breed: Chihuahua Age: 11 Diagnosis:Stage C Surgery Date: February 18th, 2019 Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI Owner: Shanna Reynolds Primary Vet: Dr. John Drobish, Great Lakes Hospital for Animals Cardiologist: Dr. Christian Weder, Petcardia Veterinary Cardiology Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Peanut Gallivan

 Our little Peanut is a Havanese.  She is sable coloured and very pretty.  We got her as a puppy from Thunder Bay, Ontario in August 2011.  She arrived on a WestJet flight full of life and even so full of energy.  She was tiny but she was mighty.  She was the runt of her litter and only slightly less than 3 lbs when she arrived.  Her sister Sydney was not at all sure she liked her but now they are great friends.

Peanut was always healthy and always happy.   She had a bladder infection in March 2016 and had two very large bladder stones removed a few months later.  Other than that she was completely healthy.

In November 2018 she had a cough.   At first we thought it would go away, it didn’t.  We took her to the vet a week later and were told she had a heart murmur and that there was nothing that could be done except medication to prolong her life slightly.  We were told that this was terminal, there was no surgery or other treatment available and they did not know how long she would live.

This visit was followed by a visit for an ultra sound that confirmed she had MVD and she was given furosemide and pimobendin.

After sitting home devastated for a few days I hit the internet, I could not believe that no one could fix a defective heart valve in an otherwise healthy dog.  That’s when I found Mighty Hearts Project and learned about the Mitral Valve Repair surgery.  I soon learned about Dr. Uechi in Japan and then Dr. Brockman in London. I then proceeded to learn everything I possibly could about the mitral valve, the surgery and the surgeons who performed the surgery.

I was shocked, to say the least, after being told that there was nothing that could help Peanut to find that there was a way to repair her heart.  I then found a cardiologist.  The closest one to us was a three hour drive at the University of Prince Edward Island.  We had an appointment in 2 weeks and met a wonderful team there, headed by Dr. Etienne Cote.  Dr. Cote was very knowledgeable and was familiar with the surgery.  He thought it would be a good option (the only) for Peanut and encouraged us to make contact with London and Japan to see if they considered Peanut a candidate for surgery.

In January 2019 I had my first contact with RVC and knew immediately upon talking to Dr. Brockman that we were in good hands.  Although the decision to go to London was easy, the process was a challenge. 

On April 3, 2019, I flew to London with Peanut.  She had been hospitalized twice during this time with a respiratory rate exceeding 80 breaths per minute.  Both times were short stays and she was given Lasix intravenously and sent home.  She was put on spironolactone during this time and was closely monitored by our cardiology team at UPEI (they called us every two days for updates!).

On April 9, 2019, I dropped her off at RVC and left in tears.  Approximately 5 hours later I received the wonderful news from Dr. Brockman that Peanut had come through her surgery with flying colors and was breathing on her own.  Due to a variety of factors, I actually got to see Peanut that afternoon around 3:00 pm.  She was in the ICU in an oxygen tent with lots of monitors and tubes but sitting up and, except for being a bit groggy, she looked like our Peanut.

From that point forward she improved dramatically every day.  The only complication that they discovered was a mark on her lung that was biopsied.  Although we did not find out what that was, we did find out that it was not cancerous – that was all that really matter since her breathing was remarkably healthy.

Peanut came home to Harpenden House 7 days after surgery.  7 days after that we traveled home to Nova Scotia, Canada.  She has remained on blood thinners and pimobendin for three months.

Peanut had her first post op echo in May and all is going very well.  She will soon have her 3 month echo which we hope will go equally well and hope will result in taking her off of her medications.

We cannot thank, RVC, Dr. Brockman, Dr. Bristow and their team and everyone at Mighty Hearts enough for all they did for us and our girl.  Along the way we met some wonderful people, made some lifetime friends and, had a fantastic time in a small town called Harpenden.

Breed: Havanese Age: 8 Diagnosis:Stage C Surgery Date: April 9th, 2019 Hometown: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Owner: Lisa Gallivan Primary Vet: Dr. Elizabeth Croft , Halifax Veterinary Hospital Cardiologist: Dr. Etienne Cote & Dr. Lynn O’Sullivan , University of Prince Edward Island Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Herbert Roth-Ramsland

Herbert was my father’s dog who lived in Israel. I brought him home from Israel after my father passed away so I could take care of him for my dad. My dad loved Herbert or “Herbie” as he would call him. He used to call me from Israel just to talk about him. I felt that I needed to bring Herbert home with me to America and care for him for my dad. A month after I returned home with Herbert my own dog Spencer passed away. I then knew for sure that I was supposed to take care of Herbert for my dad, and my dad would care for Spencer in heaven for me.  Many years ago, Dr. Joyce Herbert’s wonderful doctor noticed Herbert had a heart murmur while I took him for his checkup. He said that since Herbert was not showing any symptoms we just needed to keep an eye on things. I am blessed that Dr. Joyce picked up on it when he did, and had many conversations with me on what to expect and what we can do to help Herbert. In about 2017, Dr. Joyce noticed that his heart murmur was progressing, and after an echocardiogram he was put on Pimobendan.  About 4 months later I took him to a vet cardiologist who put him on several medications to help him stay stable.

I became a member of Mighty Hearts Facebook group, and I started to consider the option of surgery. Herbert was stable for a year on his medications. October 2018 after coming back from a family vacation I noticed Herbert was coughing a lot. His breathing seemed to have changed, and was more labored. In December, after much prayer I decided to send Herbert’s information to RVC. Herbert was determined to be a candidate for surgery, and got a surgery date of June 29, 2019. Herbert’s condition began to deteriorate, and he was diagnosed with Pneumonia. He was coughing a lot and having a lot of difficulty breathing to the point where we got him an in-home oxygen tank. The vets all told me that it was a miracle that he was still with me because his heart was so enlarged. It was the largest heart they had seen! Because of his heart being so enlarged it was restricting his airway. He also had many syncope episodes. This was a very stressful time, and we all felt Herbert would not make it until the end of June. After contacting RVC on a weekly basis and having a wonderful Cardiologist Dr. Swift advocate for Herbert RVC told me they had a new opening for Herbert April 29th. I will never forget the phone call I got from Dr. Brockman when hearing that Herbert made it through Mitral Valve surgery. I could almost feel my dad’s presence with me it was a very surreal moment.

Since having surgery at RVC Herbert is like a different dog. He has a new life, and is acting like a puppy again. It’s so nice to see him run and play. Before the surgery, he couldn’t make it a few feet without being completely out of breath. My husband had to give him oxygen daily, and I even went as far as buying oxygen supplement for him just so he could breathe. Herbert’s heart is now re shaping. He barely has any leakage of his mitral valve, and his heart reduced in size. We went for his almost 3-month post op check- up, and his heart is normal size again! I never thought that would be possible because of how big his heart was before surgery. We are thankful for Mighty Hearts Project as we would have never known about this life saving surgery without Mighty Hearts.

 I am thankful that my prayers were answered and I can spend more time with Herbie!

 Love and Blessings, xoxo

 Jennifer, David, Samantha, Alexa, Daniella, Stephy, Lola, and Oreo (Herbert’s family)

 Breed: Pekingese Age: 9 Diagnosis:Stage C Surgery Date: April 29th, 2019 Hometown: Palm Beach, Florida Owner: Jennifer Roth Primary Vet: Dr. John Joyce , Regal Animal Hospital Cardiologist: Dr. Simon Swift UF, Gainesville Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Jewel Belsinger

 I bought Jewel from a pet store in 2009 (I didn't know better at the time). I got her when my daughter, Lauren, was 9 years old. I was raising my daughter as a single mom and we wanted a pet to add to our family. We went to the pet store and saw the most adorable Cavalier puppy. We played with her in the visit room. She was quiet and sweet. We put her back in her cage and were going to take the night to decide for sure. Jewel was sharing a cage with a Jack Russell. He was active and jumping all round. When we put her back, Jewel stood at the cage door and looked at us with the saddest eyes that I have ever seen. She wanted so badly to be out of the cage and go to her forever home. Lauren and I took her back out of the cage and she's been with us ever since that day in February 2009.

Jewel has battled health issues her whole life. She has had 2 knee surgeries for patella luxation and has permanent pins in her knees, along with a host of other medical issues. The most serious issue was MVD. Jewel always had a heart murmur. It became more noticeable over the years. I mentioned it to her orthopedic surgeon (who is an avid Cavalier owner). He recommended that Jewel visit a vet cardiologist, Dr. Cober, at CVCA Annapolis to see if she was at a point where she needed medication. I am so glad that I took his advice. Jewel had an echocardiogram and was diagnosed with moderate to severe mitral valve disease. The vet told me that the disease is progressive and that medication can help to slow the progression. Jewel began taking Pimobendan. She was stable on the medication and had the same diagnosis 6 months later at her next echocardiogram. I was relieved but knew that Jewel was on borrowed time. I decided to contact the Jasmine Clinic and sent all of the required testing and results to them. I was so excited when they said that Jewel was a candidate. I began the quarantine process and held onto the hope that the medicine would slow things down.

Jewel's health started deteriorating while I was waiting out the quarantine process. She was diagnosed with severe MVD during her next echocardiogram visit and she started taking Lasix. Surgery was scheduled for January 2019. I found out that she had Cushings Disease in December 2018, which needed to be under control before the surgery. I was devastated. Jasmine was busy and the surgery was postponed until April 1st. In the meantime, Jewel was continuing to go downhill. Her Cushings Disease was regulated, however, the MVD was getting worse. Jewel was coughing a lot. She would look at me and I could see the fear in her eyes. Her heart was so big that it took up her entire chest and was pushing on her bronchioles. I could feel her heart pounding when she was on my lap. She was lethargic and panting constantly. It was so hard to watch. I cried and prayed that she could hold on for 2 more months.

Late March finally came around and I was cautiously optimistic. We flew to Japan and met with Dr. Sayaka for a pre-op appointment. I felt like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders after the visit. At that moment, I knew that I made the right decision about the surgery and that if anyone could save Jewel, it was them. Jewel had surgery April 1st. I was a nervous wreck but felt relieved after meeting Dr. Uechi. The surgery was a success! Dr. Uechi said that Jewel had several broken heart chords, a hole in the atrium wall and her mitral valve wasn't closing. The hole in the atrium wall actually helped the blood equalize and may have prevented her from going into heart failure. It's a miracle that she had not gone into heart failure. I visited Jewel in the ICU and prayed for a good recovery. Jewel developed 2 blood clots in her heart during recovery. I was terrified but put my trust in Jasmine. They knew exactly what to do. Jewel was placed on blood thinners and the platelet count slowly went back to normal. I was so happy when she was discharged and cleared to fly back home!

We flew home and went to see Dr. Cober. The blood clots were stable. Jewel continued blood thinners and saw Dr. Cober a few weeks later. One clot was dissolved and the other was smaller! She is currently still on blood thinners and hopefully the last clot will be gone at the next visit. Jewel was tired the first few weeks home. She gradually became more active and is now like a different dog! She loves to be outside (she used to get too hot before surgery) and hardly pants at all. Her breathing is so quiet that I often look at her to make sure she is still breathing! Her eyes are sparkly and she is much more interested playing and enjoying things that she has not done in years. I am so grateful for Jasmine Clinic, Mighty Hearts and everyone's support. This experience has given me a whole new perspective on life. The dedication and expertise of the Jasmine team saved Jewel and provided us more time with a dog that has brought so much joy and happiness into our lives. She's been with me through everything over the last 10 years. Each day is a gift. I am forever thankful for the chance to spend more time with Jewel.

Breed: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Age: 10 Diagnosis:Stage B2 Surgery Date: April 1st, 2019 Hometown: Baltimore, MD Owner: Jennifer Belsinger Primary Vet: Dr. Vander Veen, Pulaski Veterinary Clinic Cardiologist: Dr. Rick Cober, CVCA, Annapolis, MD Surgical Team: Dr. Masami Uechi, Jasmine Cardiovascular Medical Center

Bailey Byrne O'Brien

 Bailey and his brother Travis are both 11 1/2 years old. Bailey was diagnosed with a grade 3-4 murmur in 2016 but was otherwise very healthy. Both Bailey and Travis were put on Pimobendan as they both had murmurs. In March 2018 Bailey collapsed while out chasing his ball, we rushed him to the ER and they were not too worried and told us to limit exercise (no more ball chasing). Over the next few days Bailey was in and out of our local vet as he just wasn't doing well. His breathing was labored and he was very lethargic. We were told his heart was getting worse and he was put on Lasix. When we inquired about surgery we were told that wasn't really an option and that this disease is progressive and incurable and medication was all we could do !!

We were not prepared to accept that diagnoses and we went online to see what we could do. That's where we found Dr Tom Mullany, veterinary cardiologist. We asked our local vet for a referral and that's when things changed for the better. Bailey met Tom and it was obvious from day one that Tom was going to do all he could for our little guy, whom he nicknamed "the best little patient in Ireland". Bailey was admitted and Dr Tom worked his magic. During our research we also found the Mighty Hearts Project and with Dr Tom and the Mighty Hearts family we knew we could save our baby.

Tom explained all about the surgery adjusted and added new meds and sent all Baileys notes and scans to RVC. Bailey was however not deemed to be a candidate for surgery at that stage. In January 2019 Bailey had developed a bad cough and was having regular fainting spells, his weight was dropping and we was now only 2.9 kg. Back to Tom for more tests. All Baileys updated notes and scans were sent to RVC and this time we got the news that Bailey could have the surgery.

We had our conference call with Dr Dan Brockman on February 28th and within 10 days we had a surgery date of May 13th. Bailey had lots of trips to Dr Tom between February and May including Tom fitting a halter monitor to Bailey on a Sunday his only day off !!. Dr Tom got our little man stable for surgery, with meds changes and lots of care.

Bailey is now 5 weeks post op and is doing really well. He had his first checkup with Dr Tom 2 weeks ago and his heart has reduced significantly and pressures are back to normal. Hes gained weight and is now 3.3 kg. We noticed in the last week in particular that Bailey is back to his old self. While he's not allowed do the usual stuff, jump, climb stairs etc he doesn't look like a dog that's just had major surgery.

At this stage I should explain that we lost our 17 year old son on November 2012 to Sudden Arrhythmic Death (SADS) and unfortunately there was nothing we could do. That made us more determined that we were not going to let Baileys heart take him from us too.

We are forever grateful to Dr Tom Mullany who told us about RVC and kept our baby stable and well enough for surgery. To RVC for saving our baby and to the Might Hearts Project family for answering our many questions and always being there for support.

Breed: Chihuahua Age: 11 Diagnosis:Stage C Surgery Date: May 13th, 2019 Hometown: London , UK Owner: Denise Byrne Primary Vet: Ark Vetcare, Kill Lane. Cardiologist: Dr. Tom Mullany of Nutgrove Veterinary Surgery Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Rupert Schmidt

 Rupert was first diagnosed with a heart murmur October 2018 . He showed no signs of illness but I was concerned about his rapid breathing. On examination I was told he had a heart murmur and a subsequent X-Ray showed fluid in his lungs and an enlarged heart . We couldn’t believe it as he’d shown no real signs of illness before this . Our cardiologist then determined that he had leakage from the mitral valve and had one episode of heart failure ! He was prescribed Vetmedin, Cardalis and diuretics. These seemed to stabilize him, Rupert was reacting well to the medication. I was relieved by this .  However I wanted to learn about mitral valve disease (MVD) and started googling the disease and I was horrified to learn that even with medication Rupert would probably not be alive next Christmas!.

Through my research I saw that the RVC in London was doing this surgery, however I was not sure if I was comfortable with this procedure. This was when I found the Mighty Hearts Project website which I initially thought was just for Americans but thought I’d email Nate Estes just in case he could help me in England. Nate and all the wonderful people on this site gave me the knowledge and courage to go for surgery.   On March 4th 2019 Rupert had his surgery. It was performed by the amazing RVC team ..... incredible people whose compassion skill and care helped both Rupert and I have our hearts mended .   Within a week of surgery Rupert was off all of his heart medications , his heart  was back to normal size and his regurgitation is minimal .

Ruperts first month cardiogram confirmed this . We are so pleased we were able to take the surgery route as now we hope that Rupert can live a normal healthy life with his brother and sisters. It has been however a very difficult and emotional journey not for the faint hearted but a journey I would do again and again to save one of my babies .  I have been humbled by the love ,support and kindness of all we have met and have gotten to know . I will be forever grateful to Nate and the Mighty Hearts Project community group who have supported me through this entire process and to the RVC team. Rupert is now happily home with his brother and sisters thanks to so many wonderful people who we will always be remembered fondly in my heart. Again, Thank you so much .

Love from Rupert and his humans

Breed: Long Haired Chihuahua
Age: 7
Diagnosis: Stage C
Surgery Date: March 4th, 2019
Hometown: London , UK
Owner: Suzanne Schmidt
Primary Vet: Dr. Robert Short
Cardiologist: Dr. Babis Koffas, The Neighborhood Vet
Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Vasco Maximov

Vasco had a mild level three murmur with no enlargement discovered April of 2018. He had his first Cardiology exam and echo and was cleared by Dr. Timothy Hodge for his May dental, they were to pull 16 teeth!  June 30th we rushed him to the ER for labored breathing and discomfort. He was immediately put into oxygen and given pimobendan and Lasix. After 36 hours he was able to come home. We were shocked. Radiologists couldn’t conclude if it was pneumonia or heart failure. We kept him on a light dose of the medications and his appetite got worse and worse. Vasco went from 6.8 pounds to 5.3 pounds in a month. Even our cardiologist wasn’t sure if it was CHF because of how normal sized his heart was back in May. We decided to wait four months for another echo because Dr. Hodge said it would take time to see changes in the heart. In October it was confirmed he was in heart failure and it was bad... he’d developed pulmonary hypertension as well and was given 16 months left to live. 

 Through the tears... after being told there was nothing to be done except medications... Vasco developed hypocalcemia tremors and seizures due to the pimobendan and furosemide doses. We were in the ER over a dozen times between June 30th and January 12th. Only our neurologist Dr. Levitski and holistic vet Dr. Nespor would believe us that his tremors were due to hypocalcemia so we had Dr. Levitski prescribe us a calcium carbonate compounded medication and Vasco immediately stopped tremoring and seizing and put half a pound on. In October, through  all of Mommy’s research she finally found Mighty Hearts Project and a surgery to save her baby! Mighty Hearts and Nate Estes were an immense help and without them we’d have never been able to do what we did to save Vasco!

 We reached out to both Japan and England with all of Vasco’s records and waited for a response. Vasco’s records of tremors and seizures had made the surgeons very cautious about proceeding with surgery since they had never dealt with this issue before. Finally in January our amazing neurologist Dr. Robin Levitski wrote us a letter clearing Vasco of any neurological disorders and giving her approval for surgery. We immediately heard back from Japan and London and chose London because we were able to get Vasco there sooner.  The RVC was honest and kept us in the line up from the date we contacted them even though we had the big calcium delay! 

 We arrived in London a few days before surgery. Vasco had surgery April 1st of 2019. It was the most amazing miracle we’ve ever seen! His heart began to shrink almost right away and within a week he was eating and putting on weight. ALL of the medications he was previously on were stopped... calcium carbonate, pimobendan, furosemide, spironolactone and sildenafil. He’s now only taking blood thinners for the required three months to prevent blood clots in recovery. 

 We are beyond grateful to the Mighty Hearts Community, Nate Estes, our brilliant surgeons Dr. Dan Brockman, Dr. Poppy Bristow and our nurses Sarah, Ali and all of the incredible teams who saved our baby! It was the best decision we’ve ever made and without it, we were certain to lose our angel. 

 We encourage everyone who has a dog in CHF to start the quarantine process immediately and consider surgery. After so much heartache, so many tears and so many visits to specialists and the ER we are so so so happy beyond words our baby was saved! Surgery works and Vasco continues to improve day by day. 

 Fight for what you believe in and always question what your intuition says may be false. We know our babies best! Find the best doctors who work with you and your baby and don’t always listen to the black and white book! It took a team of east and west doctors and specialists and a mother’s intuition to keep Vasco going! 

 We send all our love and gratitude. 

 Xo

Vasco’s family 

Breed: Yorkshire Terrier
Age: 13
Diagnosis: Stage C
Surgery Date: April 1st, 2019
Hometown: Del Mar, CA
Owner: Shanna and Anton Maximov
Instagram: @yorkstars
Primary Vet: All Creatures Dr. Picht and Tiglio and East West Animal Hospital Dr. Nespor for our holistic needs
Cardiologist: Dr. Timothy Hodge, DVM, DACVIM, UC Veterinary Medical Center, San Diego
Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Milo

Milo was diagnosed with MVD July 2016. I was told he didn’t need any medication; this was just part of the aging process and his heart was just reflective of his age of 10 plus years. I was told to bring him back in a year. Milo returned to Blue Pearl in August 2017 and the previous Dr. had retired and Milo was assigned to Dr. Mark Harmon. After reviewing his Eco, I was told Milo had advanced stage B2 MVD and probably had  6 to 12 months to live without medication. Even with medicine, the prognosis was death in 2 years or less. My only instructions to Dr. Harmon was to fix it. He said he couldn’t, but he knew who could. Milo was given Enalapril and Pimobendan. Dr. Harmon gave me the information to Jasmine and I started researching.

 I came across the Mighty Hearts Project website and connected to the Facebook MVD support group. I poured through the resources on how to start the process. My first hurdle was getting a vet to do the health certificate. After calling what felt like every clinic in WA, Redmond-Fall City Animal Hospital agreed to take him as a new patient and help me in September 2017 get him into Japan. Next was getting the appointment with Jasmine. Dr. Sayaka scheduled Milo for March 31st 2018. With the date set, then began the waiting and the stressing out. I was stressing out over keeping him alive and affording everything. I simply prayed and acted like it was going to be ok rather than think negatively.

Shortly after Milo experienced his first of 2 episodes of congestive heart failure in November of 2017. His medicines were increased to include Furosemide and Spironolactone. In addition to that, he was on numerous Chinese herbs from Ancient Arts and supplements for heart health. Milo experienced his second episode of CHF early March 2018. By then I’d figured out how to get enough money out my 401k and within 48 hours of payment due, I got the check and wired the deposit to Japan. March 28th 2018 we took off after a mild panic were Mighty Hearts Project once again, provided me support to keep going.

 After arriving in Japan, Milo was evaluated and determined to be stage C. Milo ultimately needed all seven cords in his heart replaced during surgery. After surgery, he then began experiencing a hematoma on the left side of his heart. After release from Jasmine, he also experienced a fever which sent him back to the hospital. Thankfully with much support from MHP, I had people to hold my hand as I occasionally freaked out about how to care for him after surgery. Returning home to Seattle, Milo’s left side enlargement seemed to stabilize and then began increasing throughout the year. At his last checkup on April 9th  2019, the left side had finally stop enlarging. Today he is still on Pimobendan, Amlodipine, Sildenafil and Clopidogrel.

I have had Milo since 2007 and while I’m crazy enough to think he’ll live forever, I know in reality he won’t. Yet without this surgery and the compassionate doctors at Blue Pearl, RFCAH, Ancient Arts and Jasmine as well as everyone at MHP, I wouldn’t have been blessed with another year of his presence. Milo is a whole new boy. It’s all I can due to contain him. At 12 he’s been more energetic then he was at 6 months old when I got him. From climbing the furniture, jumping out of his play yard, leaping onto counter tops to get at the roasting pan in the sink, tearing up garbage, endless braking, attempting to take on fire trucks, dogs and humans alike, he thinks he is invincible. In some ways he is. I’m just praying he slows down so his heart lasts. So we’re going back to puppy class! I literally have no choice. And I’m grateful to get to start all over with my sweet boy.

-Ashley

Breed: Dachshund/Bichon Frise
Age: 11
Diagnosis Stage C
Surgery Date: March 31st, 2018
Hometown: Seattle WA
Owner: Ashley
Primary Vet: Dr. Darla Rewers, Ancient Arts Holistic Veterinary Services
Cardiologist: Dr. Mark Harmon Blue Pearl
Surgical Team: Dr. Masami Uechi, Jasmine Cardiovascular Medical Center

Tiger Sinensky

Tiger was diagnosed in March 2018 with a grade IV heart murmur, MVD stage C and severe Pulmonary Hypertension. She was nine years and a half years old. Her only symptom at the time was a persistent cough. She was a very happy and active dog.  Our primary Veterinarian, Dr. Wallach informed us in December of 2017 that Tiger probably had a year to live with medication. In the interest of full disclosure he informed us that there was a surgical option and referred us to a cardiologist and to the Mighty Hearts site. We are so thankful that he was aware of the surgery.

Tiger was basically symptom free- what we believe was her first episode of CHF was a quick incidence of being disoriented in June of 2017. We took Tiger to Dr. Joshua Morgenstern a Cardiologist at VMCLI in Long Island, NY.   Dr.  Morgenstern put Tiger on a mix of Lasix, Vetmedin, Enalapril and Sidenafil. In May of 2018 we were given a surgical date at the RVC for Jan of 2019. While it was a long way off we had mixed feelings – we were happy to have Tiger with us for a long while before the surgery as the surgery had its risks which we had to weigh vs the risk of Tiger going into CHF. Labor Day weekend 2018 Tiger had trouble breathing and she had a terrible hacking cough. Luckily VMCLI is also a 24 hour emergency clinic and they were able to confer with Tiger’s cardiologist and had copies of all her scans for comparison. The ER vet diagnosed her with CHF and she needed to be hospitalized for 3 days. That episode scared us and we were able to move Tiger’s surgery date up to Dec 2018. Tiger’s medications were continuously monitored and we prepared for our trip to London praying that Tiger would remain stable to make the trip. Tiger remained a happy, active dog with no real outward signs of her condition for a long time. As our vet indicated she “didn’t read the book” and she had no idea how sick she was. 

Preparing for the surgery was very stressful- all the paperwork with the USDA forms, testing, and ESA documentation and approvals. The Mighty Hearts site was a wonderful resource as were so many other parents who gave so willingly of their time to help us navigate the logistics and help with any concerns we had. The love and support we received was amazing. On the Wednesday prior to her surgery we took the overnight flight to London and Tiger did great. We had made a pre-op appointment for the next morning as Tiger had high Pulmonary Hypertension so we wanted her checked out to insure the flight did not affect her.Tiger was not herself the first night and we thought maybe it was the flight and new surroundings. Unfortunately when Tiger went to her pre-op appointment the RVC heard crackling in her lungs and decided to keep her overnight for observation. Tiger rapidly deteriorated into full CHF. She was up and down and they had trouble controlling her breathing. Nothing was working. We were on an emotional roller coaster. The RVC gave Tiger better odds of surviving the surgery then making it to surgery. The cardiac team was amazing- they kept Tiger alive to make it surgery as that was her only chance to survive. She was in the ICU oxygen chamber and as the picture shows she had an oxygen tube stitched to her nose to help her breathe.

Tiger’s odds were much lower going into surgery than they were the week before due to her critical condition.  Dr. Dan Brockman and Dr. Poppy Bristow conferred with their staff at the RVC to put together a surgical plan (including using a ventilator pre-surgery and a bit longer afterwards) to try and give her a fighting chance.  We were on pins and needles the day of the surgery having cried our eyes out the weekend before. Tiger was so sick we could not see her pre-surgery as the Doctors were afraid any excitement might upset the delicate balance. The surgery was successful and Tiger made it through all the hurdles the first few days. She did develop 2 small blood clots and had to remain at the RVC additional time. Tiger was at the RVC for a total of 16 days.

The entire RVC team was wonderful- everyone was warm, caring and compassionate.  Tiger loved the entire team and we are forever grateful to them all for saving Tiger. Without their skills and expertise Tiger would not be with us today. We thank her Surgeons (Dan and Poppy), Nurses (Sarah and Allison), Cardiologists (Virginia and Inma), Perfusionists (Nigel and Tom), Anesthetists (Carolina and Thaleia), and the dog blood donors (Oscar, Basil and Jesse) as well as the entire staff at the RVC who gave her such excellent care and attention.

Tiger is now 4 months post-surgery and doing well. While her heart is still enlarged and she has moderate regurgitation the repair locks the valve in place to prevent further deterioration. Tiger will most likely remain on the Vetmedin but does not need any other medications and most importantly is off all diuretics. We are grateful for everyday with her- she is our little miracle and we love her with all our heart.

Breed: Cock-A-Poo
Age: 10
Diagnosis Stage at Surgery: D
Surgery Date: December 10th, 2018
Hometown: East Meadow, NY
Owner: Amy & Rich Sinensky
Primary Vet: Dr. Marc Wallach, University Animal Hospital
Cardiologist: Dr. Joshua Morgenstern, VMCLI
Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Molly Bieber

Molly was diagnosed with a heart murmur when she was eight years old, but remained a happy, active dog with no signs of her condition for a long time. One week before she went into congestive heart failure, she took a five mile 3 hour walk. Unfortunately, on Sept 11, 2018, Molly began having difficulty breathing. We rushed her to animal ER where we were told she had congestive heart failure with fluid in her lungs and a severely enlarged heart. We were told she had a short time to live, would need to be on medications for the rest of her life, and that there was absolutely nothing we could do. 

Fortunately, we found Dr. Simon Dennis at Hope Veterinary Specialists. He adjusted her medications to the appropriate dosage (the meds from the ER doctor were too high of a dose) and informed us there were surgical options.  Without surgery, Molly was given approximately 8-12 months to live. We immediately contacted Royal Veterinary College in London and were able to schedule a surgery date of January 28, 2019. Molly remained stable on Vetmedin, Enalapril and Lasix along with a number of supplements during the five month wait for her surgery date. She also remained very active, walking as far as we would allow and playing as much as we'd permit.  We found Mighty Hearts Project as well, and were able to get very helpful advice that helped us prepare to go to the UK. 

On the Wednesday prior to her surgery, Molly flew with us from Tampa, Florida to Washington Dulles to Heathrow. She enjoyed her flight greatly. She had successful heart surgery on January 28 and four hours after her surgery, I received a picture of her sitting up and alert in her ICU cage. She was looking around. The next day when we were able to visit, she came strolling out on a leash to the waiting room to meet us, tried to escape RVC by making a break out the exit door, and gobbled up a plate of chicken. Her post-surgical recovery was mostly smooth with one bump in the road on the Friday after surgery when her heart rhythm became abnormal. RVC took immediate action and she was temporarily put back into the ICU and by Sunday she was back to her old self. 

The entire RVC team was amazing throughout Molly's recovery and Molly, who has always been very frightened of vets, came to love her life-saving surgeons and her nurses (Sarah and Allison), as well as the ICU nurses at RVC who gave her such excellent care. She was discharged the Wednesday after surgery with a significantly smaller heart. She was also off of Enalapril and Lasix and remained only on her Vetmedin dose. She had a great appetite and was very excited and eager to walk around Harpenden where we stayed in the UK. We flew home Saturday morning and she had a very smooth recovery process with no complications. 

On March 4, 2019, we visited Dr. Simon Swift at University of Florida Gainesville (we split our time between Florida and PA). Molly had only a soft murmur and mild regurgitation and her heart had shrunk back to the upper end of the normal range. The surgery was pronounced a "great success." Molly was also taken off the Vetmedin and is no longer on any heart medications. We are forever thankful to the RVC team for saving Molly's life and to Dr. Simon Dennis for advising that we contact RVC and for helping us to facilitate the surgical option, as well as to Dr. Dennis and Dr. Swift for keeping Molly stable leading up to the surgery. 

Breed: Beagle
Age: 12
Diagnosis: Stage C
Surgery Date: January 28th, 2019
Hometown: Pennsylvania / Florida
Owner: Kyle and Christy Bieber
Primary Vet: Dr. William Latter, All Creatures Animal Clinic
Cardiologist: Dr. Simon Dennis, PA Hope Veterinary Specialists in Malvern and Dr. Simon Swift, University of Florida Gainsville Small Animal Hospital
Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Samson Ward

Samson was diagnosed with MVD at stage B2 in late July 2018. He had a heart murmur that had escalated from a grade 1/2 murmur to a 4/5 during the first half of 2018. He had been on a low dose of Enalapril to help his blood pressure ever since the mild murmur had started one year prior. He was prescribed Vetmedin by Dr. Dugan and I requested a referral to cardiology. We were told there was a 5 month wait for an appointment with cardiology. After Samson began the Vetmedin I saw improvement in his energy and demeanor.

At the end of August, Samson had a mild episode of congestive heart failure. I rushed him to the emergency vet clinic, where they confirmed my fears of CHF and he stayed overnight receiving furosemide and being closely monitored. I contacted the cardiologist and expressed how his condition had escalated. Fortunately, they had a cancellation and were able to see us 2 days later. They added furosemide to Samson's daily regimen. We had to closely monitor his kidney values due to being on 3 prescriptions. I was told Samson had 10-12 months to live.

By this point, I had already researched surgical options and was considering MVR surgery for Samson. Both my primary care vets and my cardiologist supported me in my decision to take Samson to London for the MVR surgery, despite the fact they did not have much first-hand experience with MVR surgery patients. Dr. Dan Brockman was incredible, as was Poppy Bristow and the entire team at the Royal Veterinary College. We were originally offered a surgery date in February, but a cancellation opened up a December 3rd date which I accepted. Samson was technically at stage 3 when he went for surgery because he had the isolated episode of CHF.

Jessica Ward with Samson and Dr. Dan Brockman

Samson's health was always great before the heart murmur. He is a very active dog that goes everywhere with me. He loves to travel and loves to fly (I'm a pilot). Samson recovered very quickly after surgery. He did not have any torn chords, according to Poppy, only stretched ones. Both Dan and Poppy were impressed with his results. By the time we were ready to leave the UK to return home Samson's heart murmur was inaudible and his heart had completely shrunk back down to its normal size.

Samson’s one month follow up with our cardiologist revealed more great news. They were barely able to detect a trace of regurgitation on the echo and all his numbers were perfect. I could not be happier. I am so thankful I found the Mighty Hearts Project website and was able to save my baby. 

Breed: Long Hair Chihuahua
Age: 12
Diagnosis: Stage C
Surgery Date: December 3rd, 2018
Hometown: Wilmington, NC
Owner: Jessica Ward
Primary Vet: Dr. Peter Dugan, Coastal Carolina Animal Hospital
Cardiologist: Anna McManamey, DVM, North Carolina State University Veterinary Hospital
Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

Chloe Sober

In late October of 2017 I brought Chloe for her yearly checkup and they detected a slight heart murmur, they said it was about a grade 2 and that it wasn't a huge concern at that time and would keep an eye on it every 6 months. Shortly after her checkup and vaccinations Chloe started coughing, they treated her for possible kennel cough. A few weeks later I noticed extreme labored breathing, rates in the 60s and took her straight to the animal hospital where they said everything checked out normal. After about 2 weeks I noticed she was coughing but it was a different cough then before, this is when she fainted. I rushed her to the vet and this is when they told me Chloe had severe heart disease and was in heart failure.  I was told she had a grade 5 heart murmur.

We went from finding out Chloe had a slight heart murmur with no symptoms to a grade 5 murmur, MVD and in Heart Failure within a month. It is terrifying how fast this disease can progress. It was gut wrenching finding out that she only had 12-16 months to live. I immediately started looking things up and found the Mighty Hearts website and Facebook group. It gave me hope that this wasn't it for Chloe. It was a very stressful and emotional time leading up to surgery, hoping that she would make it to surgery. I will never forget this entire process, all the people I connected with and my experience in Japan. Chloe is doing amazing. She went from a Grade 5 heart murmur to no detectable heart murmur. Her Regurgitation went from Severe to Very mild and her heart has returned to a normal size. She went from taking 3 medications every 12 hours to no medication.  I will be forever grateful for Mighty Hearts and Dr. Uechi, Sayaka and the entire Japanese Team. 

Breed: Yorkshire Terrier
Age: 10 years old
Diagnosis: Stage C
Surgery Date: August 14th, 2018
Hometown: Albany, NY
Owner: Whitney and Chris Sober
Cardiologist: Upstate Veterinary Specialties , Dr. Cassidy D. Sedacca
Surgical Team: Dr. Masami Uechi, Jasmine Cardiovascular Medical Center

Sophie Grant

Sophie had to be rushed to the ER Vet four times between April 2018 and September 2018.  The fourth time (September of 2018), Sophie collapsed at home and had to be revived using CPR before being rushed to the ER Vet Hospital.  Sophie was scheduled for surgery in Japan January of 2019.  We were very worried that she wouldn’t make it, so our Cardiologist contacted The Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London and they were able to schedule Sophie for her mitral valve repair surgery October 15th 2018. 

Sophie is now back home healing and doing very well.  She is being treated for an infection, Endocarditis, which after many tests has not been confirmed, but blood work does show an infection and since she recently had her surgery, we are erring on the side of caution.  Her latest blood work was excellent.  Her neutropenia and anemia have resolved.  Her murmur is barely detectable and her heart continues to get smaller.  She no longer coughs when she drinks water or gets excited. We are absolutely thrilled and thank everyone involved that played a part in saving our Sophie.

Breed: Maltese
Age: 9 years old
Diagnosis: Stage C Surgery Date: October 15th, 2018
Hometown: Newmarket, Ontario Canada Owner: Candice Grant/Peter Maier Cardiologist: Toronto Veterinary Emergency Hospital, Dr. Jonathan. Lichtenberger Surgical Team: RVC, Drs. Dan Brockman & Poppy Bristow

ToTo Satori

ToTo is a 10 year old Yorkshire Terrier from New York, NY.  ToTo had a totally clean bill of health until a low grade murmur was detected in July of 2016. X-rays and echocardiogram at the time did not conclude treatment, just a follow up one year later. During pre-check for teeth cleaning three weeks ago, March 2017, blood work came back with slightly elevated enzymes in the liver; and x-ray showed a much more enlarged heart than last summer. The vet was not comfortable with putting him under until another echo was done, which concluded he had progressed to a grade 4. The vet prescribed Denosyl to protect his liver as well as Enalapril. Three days later ToTo’s heart rate increased to 180/min and resting breaths were 60/min. He was rushed to the emergency vet. X-rays showed fluid in lungs and ToTo was put on Lasix. The next morning, he went back to the emergency vet after a difficult overnight with many side effects. The vet confirmed a murmur of not just a level 4, but a level 6. At that point, the vet recommended seeing a cardiologist. Dr. Karmer saw ToTo and suggested adding Vetmedin to the daily meds. Currently, he is on Vetmedin, Enalapril, and Lasix.   Toto had a successful surgery at the Bozon Clinic in France on January 29, 2018 and is resting and recovering at home in NYC.

Breed: Yorkshire Terrier
Age: 10 years old
Diagnosis: Stage C
Surgery Date: January 29, 2018
Hometown: New York, NY
Owner: LiLi L
Cardiologist: Dr. George Kramer, ACVS
Surgical Team: France, Drs. Masami Uechi, Sabine & Jean Hugues Bozon

Koda Murray

Koda’s symptoms came on suddenly and rapidly. He had his yearly check up with his primary care veterinarian in April 2017 with no noticeable murmur whatsoever. Yet in late October 2017 he began coughing consistently, so I took him to be seen by his primary care veterinarian and was referred to a cardiologist immediately. His cardiologist diagnosed him with CHF, MVD, at a grade 5/6 murmur. No one could explain why he went from no murmur to a grade 6 in a matter of months.

With medications his symptoms were well controlled for a couple months, but dosages needed to be constantly increased and new medications added. In April 2018 he had his first hospitalization from CHF and was on a rapid decline. He was hospitalized on two more occasions in May before his surgery date at the Jasmine clinic in July. After surgery, we were told that nearly all his cords had been torn, which would explain his rapid and sudden decline. 

Koda had surgery on July 25th 2018, with no complications. He did have to be released after only 3 days because he was too stressed without me, but this didn’t effect his healing. His heart has dramatically decreased in size and he is now only taking a low dose of Vetmedin. He does still have a grade 4 murmur but there is no significant regurgitation.  He has his crazy Aussie energy back, and acts like a puppy again. We are forever grateful to Dr. Uechi and his amazing team, and everyone who helped us make this trip possible.

Breed: Miniature Australian Shepherd
Age: 11 years old
Diagnosis: Stage D Surgery Date: July 25th, 2018
Hometown: Portland, OR Owner: Stefani Murray Instagram: @kodawoof
Cardiologist: Dr. Gary Wood at Cardiology Northwest
Surgical Team: Dr. Masami Uechi, Jasmine Cardiovascular Medical Center

Dutch Schmidt

Dutch is a 12 year old rescued mini schnauzer mix from Tampa, FL.  In July 2014 a level 2 murmur was detected during a routine visit at UF prior to his third dental cleaning and an echocardiogram confirmed Mitral Valve Disease.  Dutch has always been a high energy dog. Even at age 11 with CHF he wanted to play and fetch his favorite tennis ball.  Unfortunately, his murmur progressed and in September 2017 he developed an exercise intolerance.  He was taken to his primary care vet and and an x-ray confirmed the worst - congestive heart failure. Dutch went on Lasix for the fluid in his lungs, enalapril and pimobendan. His murmur was staged at 5 and was taken to the best cardiologist in Florida, Dr. Simon Swift. After an extensive exam and Echo, he confirmed not just the heart failure but that he had maybe 8-9 months to live and recommended MVR surgery with Dr. Uechi.  Dutch had mitral valve repair surgery at Clinique Veterinaire Bozon on February 1, 2018.

Dutch is currently off all meds except Vetmedin to keep the heart beating strong as the disease enlarged and twisted it prior to surgery. Heart has already decreased in size and the murmur down to grade 2 and very mild regurgitation.

Breed: Mini Schnauzer mix
Age: 12 years old
Diagnosis: Stage C Surgery Date: February 1, 2018
Hometown: Tampa, FL Owner: Julieanne & Bill Schmidt
Cardiologist: Dr. Simon Swift, UFL Primary Vet: Hyde Park Veterinary Clinic
Surgical Team: France, Drs. Masami Uechi, Sabine & Jean Hugues Bozon