What is the tangible benefit of owner initiative in proactively screening for MVD via an echocardiogram in older Miniature Schnauzers?

It allows veterinarians to prescribe medications that manage symptoms and slow the progression

The progressive nature of Mitral Valve Disease means that in its early stages, it can be silent, making standard listening checks potentially insufficient. When an owner requests an echocardiogram and MVD is identified early, even before severe symptoms manifest, veterinarians gain the critical window to introduce specific medications. These pharmaceutical interventions are designed not necessarily to cure the condition, but to effectively manage the resulting symptoms and significantly slow the rate at which the disease progresses, potentially leading to many extra months or years of good quality life.