Canine dilated cardiomyopathy 2. Pathophysiology and treatment

A GOOD understanding of the underlying pathophysiology is required to enable a sensible approach to the treatment and management of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). This article describes the mechanisms involved in congestive heart failure associated with DCM, and outlines the options available for treatment and management. An article in the previous issue discussed some of the breed‐specific manifestations of canine DCM and the approach to diagnosis ( In Practice , October 2000, pp 520‐530).