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Treatment

Most patients can be treated on an outpatient basis. However, patients with an electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia) should be hospitalized temporarily for  fluid therapy with electrolytes to correct the imbalance. Oxygen therapy will need to be given if your dog is hypoxemic. Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-arrhythmic drugs to your dog, depending on the underlying cause of the ventricular premature complexes.

Living and Management

The prognosis is uncertain and depends on whether the underlying cause can be treated. Be aware that the arrhythmia may worsen and/or fainting or sudden death can occur. If the heart has a structural disease (which your veterinarian will inform you of, if this is the case) or if your dog is showing clinical signs of the arrhythmia, you will need to restrict your dog's activity. Your doctor will advise you on an appropriate physical routine, and will schedule follow-up appointments with you for your dog as is necessary to treat the underlying disease.