Surgeon Experience

Three-Year Follow-Up After Pacemaker Implantation in Small Dogs

Longitudinal outcomes in dogs under 8 kg show 82% three-year survival and improved quality-of-life scores versus medical management alone.

2026.05 Dr. Sarah Okonkwo, Cardiology Specialist
Three-Year Follow-Up After Pacemaker Implantation in Small Dogs

Bradyarrhythmia in toy breeds presents unique lead routing and pocket-size constraints. This follow-up series tracks 24 implantations from 2022–2025.

Cohort

Median weight 5.4 kg; AV block and sick sinus syndrome were the dominant indications.

Follow-Up

Three-year survival was 82%; owner-reported activity scores improved in 88% of survivors.

Lessons Learned

  • Prefer jugular approach in dogs under 4 kg
  • Schedule generator revision planning at implant
  • Telemetric checks reduce emergency presentations