Veterinary EKG | VET-ECG is an easy to use wireless 6-Lead and 12-Lead resting ECG system. The matchbox size transmitter simply connects to the lead electrode cables and these attach to the patient via soft, non-pinching alligator clips. The transmitter records and sends all data via Bluetooth for live viewing to either a computer or mobile device where the ECG is saved. The recorded ECG can be easily edited, analyzed and shared with others. Bluetooth connectivity creates independence allowing the operator to control the recording device using their preferred mobile device or computer while keeping a safe distance from the patient’s claws and teeth.
The durable transmitter design is splash and shock proof and easy to clean. Separately, we offer a completely waterproof version for use in swimming pools in and under water for rehab or sea mammals. The cables are HDMI shielded to improve signal quality and enforced for daily use in rough veterinary environments.
In comparison with other systems used in animal health Veterinary EKG | VET-ECG offers an ideal mix of very miniaturized but rugged transmitter technology, professional medical diagnostic quality, most versatile wireless connectivity in combination with very easy to use but feature-rich software designed for Apple, Windows, Android tablets, phones and computers.
All recorded data can be easily shared with others for analysis via email or send to our and third-party cloud servers where customers can view, edit and backup ECGs or consolidate recordings from many users into one database (feature optional designed for larger clinics).
The built-in Lithium-Polymer battery records continuously for up to 18 hours when used as surgical monitor, 24 hours in Holter mode with CardioExplorer upgrade and several weeks between recharging when used for short, intermittent 30sec strips. Expected usable life is 7-10 years.
In addition to the standard viewer software using advanced algorithms and superior muscle and 50/60 Hz filters, automated analysis and interpretation module are available (requires upgrade). System can also be used as 24hr 3-channel Holter monitor with purchase of CardioExplorer software.
The VET-ECG is ideal for mobile practitioners looking for a small packing ECG that connects with their devices and interested in the latest and very advanced resting ECG solution favored by many human cardiologists and first responders in Germany. This system won the MEDICA 2012 Innovation Award and was also the only system successfully tested in 2019 by and for the US Air Force for use in helicopters. And it was the first and probably still only ‘Made for Apple’ diagnostic 12-channel ECG currently available that offers mobile computing with Bluetooth connectivity.
Matchbox sized transmitter
Super soft alligator clips
Coax-shielded lead cables
EAN & US color coding with description
Advanced filters and built-in sensors warrant the recording of very precise, diagnostic resting ECGs in excellent quality. Normalized 6-Lead capture for cardiologists.
Smallest and lightest 6 & 12 -channel ECG in the world. Fits in any pocket, always ready, perfect for mobile users.
Clever algorithms eliminate motion artifacts and background noise from muscle and computers delivering crisp and clear ECGs
AIS customers can share their ECGs to with Antech Imaging Services (Account required, separate charges may apply). Or use the AIS-ECG mobile app for Apple iOS, Android or Windows 10
Press any key to set an event marker anytime while recording. Edit marker text after the recording ended. Ideal when administering medications that change the HR.
View, edit, print and share recordings with a single button press. Works on Windows, Apple, Android computers, phones and tablets.
Works on very small birds, rabbits, ferrets, cats, dogs, pigs, goats, anteaters, polar bears, horses, dolphins, whales and elephants. 6 or 12 lead cable, long or short, US or EAN color coding.
Upload ECG recordings while streaming to watch live inside a web browser window. Or sync ECG with server for backup. Share recordings with other professionals or your preferred telemedicine provider (Account required, additional charges may apply)
List of System Functions
Simultaneous 3, 6 or 12-lead ECG acquisition
Live HR display
Real-time ECG waveform live-stream to connected displays, Windows, Mac or Android/Apple tablet/phone
Automatic line, baseline filters
Calipers for measurement, enter comments, set and edit markers.
Automatic ECG interpretation (optional)
Local patient database
Practice stamp to show clinic/hospital address on reports
Customizable print, screen display settings 12×1, 6×2, 3×4
Automatic email and server sync (optional)
Automatic report generator
Automatic PDF generator or print to your network or local printer.
Data upload accepted by AIS Antech Imaging Services for interpretation and other telemedicine providers.
What’s included
Every VET-ECG kit includes all necessary things required to operate the system including the transmitter, VMX00 recording/viewer software and database for Windows 7,8,10,11 or Apple Mac OS, one 6-lead cable short 60cm or long 120cm in either US or EAN color coding, very soft alligator clips, USB charger cable and Power adapter. 12-lead chest-lead and other cables are available for purchase within a kit or spare part. Please select the configuration you want from the options displayed in the webshop.
Available for download: We currently offer a free Apple app available on the Apple store and free Android app available as direct download from our website.
Not included but available for purchase: CardioExplorer 3+3 for Holter/Stress test and HRV analysis, optional add on see webshop for details.
Operational use/Warranty/Software updates/Support
Our general sales and warranty terms apply, see our website to download the current version.
Longevity: We expect VET-ECG to have an operational use for 7-10 years with daily use. Battery can be replaced, separate fees may apply.
Warranty: 2 years limited warranty beginning upon date of delivery, not including gross negligence, user error, loss, animal damage, excessive wear and tear or abuse.
Software updates: We frequently provide free safety updates, glitch fixes and add new features throughout entire product life cycle. Not included are entire new software developments.
Tech Support: Free online tech support on request, response time not guaranteed. Additional online and onsite tech support services can be purchased separately.
How does it work
Users can download the software from our website and follow the easy instructions to install the system. Alternatively, our team will send you software download links on request to install on your computers and ship the unit including all accessories. Setup is self-guided or our tech support will talk you through and provide free training.
Inserting the lead cable will start the transmitter and send the ECG to your computer/tablet/phone to display. It will remember your device and automatically connect or re-connect every time. You can install the software on as many compatible devices you like.
You can operate multiple VET-ECGs from the same device or share your VET-ECG with many other users, it will automatically connect.
The data transmitted from your patients will be saved inside a database and then displayed live. You can replay any recording and make adjustments/edits/delete.
VET-ECG comes with VMX00 resting ECG software. CardioExplorer (optional, not included in base price) is required to use VET-ECG as 3-lead Holter/patient monitor. e.g. for race horses and can be purchased separately.
System Requirements and things to avoid
VET-ECG works on Bluetooth enabled Windows 7,8,10 laptops, desktops and Surface pads younger than 6 years. Software must be installed on main hard drive to function properly. Typical ECG recordings are around 2MB in size, database can grow to 10GB or more in size over time. Windows7 is no longer supported by us.
If needed, we can provide a matching external Bluetooth adapter, please search for HAMA in the shop.
VMX00 software for VET-ECG must be installed on the designated folder on the computer C;\ drive to function properly (single user license). A network license to consolidate up to five databases can be purchased separately. Or databases can be backed-up and secured via the web-server option we offer. Box, Dropbox, Onedrive and similar cloud backup services may harm the integrity of the database. Similarly, moving the database to a network drive without network license may harm the database integrity and is not warranted for.
VET-ECG can work completely autonomously and our tech team can talk you through most problems over the phone. However, we prefer customers with reasonable internet connections for installation, updates and trouble-shooting.
Please check with your third-party or in-house IT department regarding Admin rights on your computers. Software should given high priority to operate properly. Virus scanners and backup software operating in the background may slow down or hinder VMX00 from functioning.
VMX00 software depends on a frequently updated and cared for operating system that also includes regular updates of the Bluetooth drivers. Neglecting Bluetooth drivers may cause the system to not function properly.
VET-ECG is for professional use only. We are happy to train anyone. However, we will not provide medical/veterinary assistance or consulting, here we partner with very experienced specialists, please inquire.
Tech Specification
| Technical Details / Recorder Type | VET-ECG Recorder |
| Size | 61 x 37 x 18 mm |
| Weight | 42 gr |
| Power Source | Built-in, rechargeable |
| Number of ECG channels | 12 |
| 3D Accelerometer | Yes |
| Other Channels | Yes, 1 x Temperature |
| Sampling Rate | 125 – 2000 Hz |
| Recording Period | 18 hrs in live ECG, 3 days as Holter offline |
| Storage Capacity | 2 – 32 GB |
| Effective A/D Resolution | 12 Bit |
| Dynamic Range | +/- 5 mV |
| Frequency Respond | 0,05 to 150 Hz |
| Time Constant | 3,2 sec |
| Sync. Rhythm Suppression | = 100 dB |
| Max. Electrode Impedance | +/- 300 mV |
| PC Interface | USB |
| Bluetooth Interface | BT 2.1 ,Class 1 |
| USB Interface | Yes |
| Holter Application | Yes, optional |
| Resting ECG | Yes |
| Stress/Exercise ECG | Yes, optional |
| Patient Monitoring | Yes, optional |
| iOS and Android Compatibility | Yes |
FAQ
> Does it work with Alligator clips only?
All lead cables have color-coded snap-ons that fit most alligator clips or can be used with your preferred brand of skin adhesive electrodes. We include a set of soft alligator clips with each purchase. We will offer additional connecting solutions in the near future.
> On how many computers can we install the software?
The number of software installations is not limited or restricted. Feel free to download on all of your computers that are compatible with the software.
> How many patients can be displayed with VET-ECG?
Only one at a time. Please use VET-Scout or DexSmart with CardioExplorer software to display multiple patients in parallel on a computer. Our cloud platform enables users to live-stream and watch up to 6 patients in a web browser (Avetana account purchase required)
> What is the max heart rate it can display?
VET-ECG is designed for humans but the software has been adjusted to display very fast paced animals. We use a FDA compliant calibrated simulator to measure the accuracy of the system but the simulators only go to 650 beats/min. Anything above will be displayed but not guaranteed.
> What if the Bluetooth connection is interrupted during ECG recording?
VET-ECG will save the data when the connection is restored except it is interrupted for a longer period. The live display will resume when connection is restored.
> How many patients can the database handle?
We have customers with 65,000 recordings and several thousand patients, your system hard drive sets the limit.
> Can we save the database outside the computer on our network or backup drive?
Yes and no. In order to function properly the main VMx00 database should be saved inside the computer hard drive. Please inquire for network installations, we offer a separate solution. (Network license, optional, purchase required to consolidate databases for up to 5 users). Or purchase access to our Avetana web server for backup and live-streaming to web browsers. WARNING: We definitely do not recommend using Microsoft Onedrive or similar platforms which may corrupt the database when syncing. Dropbox, Box, etc may be better but not guaranteed. Please contact us before moving your database from the hard drive to avoid data loss.
> How long will the Lithium battery last in the VET-ECG?
Longevity: We expect VET-ECG to have an operational use for 7-10 years with daily use and proper care
> How do I properly store VET-ECG if I won’t be using it for a few months?
If the system is not in use for a long time (several months or longer) then fully charge the transmitter and plug in the lead cable to turn on and keep system running for about 5hrs. Then unplug and store. This will deliver the best results for the battery. Do not store with full or empty battery, both of which are bad for the longevity of the battery.
> How many users do you have?
We have one ore more installations of VET-ECG in at least 3000 animal clinics and veterinary hospitals currently 29 countries. The human version is used in roughly 6000 clinics, ambulances, rescue helicopters, military and civil first responders. Mobile practitioners typically own one, clinics own 1-10 and telemedicine providers operate 500 or more VET-ECG in their network.
Reliability & Performance
VET-ECG is widely used in human medicine under a different brandings and names. The entire system is designed and manufactured in Germany. Today, around 3000+ clinics/ doctors are using it in animal health and around 6000+ in human medicine. The resting ECG is mostly used by mobile first responders, emergency, in ambulances and helicopters. It is also used by several military’s for its robustness and performance in harsh operational environments. It won a major Germany medical design innovation award in 2012.
Most of our users in veterinary medicine diagnose heart problems in small cats and dogs, horses, sometimes rabbits, ferrets, parrots, zoo animal and sea mammals. The recording quality is excellent due to our stabilizers in the software. If problems occur they are almost always caused by poor patient preparation, user error or trouble with the host computers operating system, virus scanners etc., that can be solved by your IT or our tech support. In 12 years we only noted two clinical customers with so much electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by other electrical machines that no proper operation of VET-ECG was possible. Bluetooth technology has very much improved over the last years enabling wider range and more stable connections. VET-ECG hardware itself is very durable; the lead cables will eventually wear out after 2+ years but are easy to replace. The battery will last 7-10 years with daily use but warranty is limited to 2 years overall.
VET-ECG is right for you
If you run pre-op ECGs, want to diagnose a patient in detail, your ECGs are 30-60 sec short you will analyze ECGs yourself or send them to a service for interpretation. You typically use alligator clips and only occasionally monitor a sedated patient for several hours. And you are either a mobile practitioner or must have an ECG in your pocket handy while in your clinic.
Most of our clients are in-clinic and mobile cardiologists, critical care, ultrasound technicians and telemedicine providers. All of our customers are out-performers, very skilled and excellent.
Check out the Compare Heart Monitors below!
VET-ECG is not for you
If you are looking for long-term patient monitoring or Holter/ Event monitoring solutions then, please check out our Holter/event and ICU telemetry platforms using the versatile DexSmart2 skin patch and VET-Scout3 transmitters which are designed to operate over multiple days recording 3-channel ECGs and more vital parameters including breathing, motion and skin temperature. >> See the comparison below.
VET-ECG is not for you if you are not getting along with modern technology and electronics, despise smart phones, computers and anything that wants to get charged in a while and coerces you to get online.
VET-ECG is not for you if you work in a clinic with a super restrictive IT department that will prevent us from providing quick and efficient tech support online via Teamviewer screen sharing software. We depend on being able to access your computers (with your permission and only during the support session) to detect, diagnose and fix software problems caused by us or your computer. If we cannot help you, nobody is happy.
VET-ECG is not for you if you always want to send every recording you make to a specialist. If you have no friend that can help you then please get the AIS-ECG from AIS Antech Imaging Services. The AIS-ECG system is a locked variant of VET-ECG to be used with the AIS Apple, Android or Windows mobile apps only. (Requires AIS account, pay per use fees apply) If you already have VET-ECG and want occasionally send data to AIS then feel free to use their mobile apps and connect your transmitter.
VET-ECG compared to other common ECG systems
When compared to traditional table-top ECG-systems with built-in displays, VET-ECG feels like a modern smart phone vs an old landline telephone. Instead of a large bulky box the size of a typewriter, the entire system is fits into a small pocket, is easy to store and always available when needed. The ECG stream is send live to your laptop or phone/tablet and is saved automatically. Digital means the entire recording can be measured, edited, viewed in different formats anytime later. Or printed on normal paper or pdf. The recording can be emailed or shared via our server, which also serves as back up to prevent data loss. Very advanced filters and the highly-sensitive accelerometer drastically reduce motion artifacts providing a very clear ECG of highly diagnostic value. The system is modular and depending on the cable type records a 3,6,12-Lead ECG. Lead-cables are available for small animals to equine and exotic applications (on request). The basic software works on Windows and Apple Mac computers. Mobile Android and Apple apps are available for free separately and may sync recordings with the main database on the users computer (Avetana account purchase required). When combined with CardioExplorer software (purchase required) VET-ECG can be used as a Holter monitor.
EMI,EMC Interference and other connectivity problems
While Dextronix Heart Monitoring products are tested and comply with FCC, FDA, CE and other regulatory standards for EMC and EMI compatibility, radio frequency interference can be caused by other devices operating in the same electronic environment where Dextronix monitors are used. EMC and EMI caused interference problems are beyond the control of Dextronix and may temporarily or permanently reduce or prevent Dextronix Heart Monitoring products from functioning properly. In theses cases, please contact our tech support team for assistance. In cases, where the source of the interference cannot be identified or eliminated and all attempts to improve the situation has failed, customer may request to return the equipment in exchange for a refund or credit within the first month of purchase but not thereafter. Our team will assess and determine the remaining value of the returned items and negotiate a refund with the customer in good faith.
Customer installed software or insufficient hardware causing problems or preventing our monitors from functioning properly are usually easier to address and therefore exempt from returns. See warranty documents for details.
Wireless data transmission, connection and connectivity related issues and problems while operating within the wireless radio range of the system can also be caused by signal attenuation. Bluetooth, WiFi, LTE, LTE-M radios operate in the ISM band and signal range can be drastically reduced by steel and concrete reinforcements in room and building walls but also water contained the patients body (e.g. the patient lays on top of the transmitter pressing the transmitter into the ground and therefore shielding the radio signal from their normal travel path). Such connectivity problems are beyond our control and not specific to our products but typical with any phone, tablet, computer using the same ISM band radios. In order to identify potential problems we are offering our customers demo units to test with live patients in their use environment to check out EMC and other above mentioned wireless connectivity problems.
Interference with Electrocautery Procedures
In the event that a patient with a Dextronix ECG or monitor attached to the skin undergoes a surgical
procedure that requires the use of electrosurgical cautery or radiofrequency ablation, Dextronix recommends the following:
• Continuously monitor the patient’s cardiac rhythm during the procedure (i.e.,via ECG).
• Use only short bursts of electrocautery (one second or less).
• Electrocautery and radiofrequency ablation should not be performed within 15 cm (6 inches) of the ECG transmitter or cables with Alligator clips attached to the patient.
• The bipolar setting on the electrocautery equipment should be used, if available.
• The electrocautery ground pad should be placed on the same side of the patient that electrocautery will be performed.
WARNING: If the electrocautery procedure does not seem to work when initiated, do not increase power! Instead remove or relocate the transmitter do a different location and try again. If the electrocautery procedure does not work, the electricity circuit may go through the alligator clips (metal) or skin adhesive pads (contain metal) possibly causing severe burns to the patient!
It is the sole responsibility of the operator to properly understand and safely apply electrocautery procedures.
| VET-ECG | VET-Scout3 | DexSmart2-W | DexSmart2-B | ||
| Primary Use | Diagnostic Resting ECG | Holter and ICU Monitor with Lead cables | Holter and ICU Monitor Leadless Skin Patch with USB | Holter and ICU Monitor Leadless Skin Patch waterproof | |
| Channels | 12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | |
| Software | VMX00 | CardioExplorer | CardioExplorer | CardioExplorer | |
| Google Android App | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Apple iOS App | Yes | No | No | No | |
| Server Sync | Yes, optional | No | No | No | |
| ECG Leads | 12, 6, 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | |
| Accelerometer | 3-Axis High Precision | 3-Axis High Precision | 3-Axis High Precision | 3-Axis High Precision | |
| Respiratory / Breathing | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Skin Temperature | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | |
| Water Proof | Resistant | Resistant | No | Yes | |
| Holter Recording Time | 24 Hours, requires CardioExplorer upgrade | 5 Days | 3 Days | 3 Days | |
| ICU Online Time | 18 Hours | 48 Hours | 12 Hours | 12 Hours | |
| Resolution | 500, 1000, 2000, 4000 Hz | 150, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 Hz | 150, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 Hz | 150, 500, 1000, 2000, 4000, 8000 Hz |
Dear Iditarod Veterinary community,
We wanted to provide a special thank you to our friends at Dextronix for providing their VET-ECG Heart Monitors to ensure our dogs cardiovascular health. We found these devices to have very well-designed features that provided numerous benefits, including:
In summary, due to all the above, this year’s screenings were exceptional! Please find a picture of the device attached and more information on
Dextronix linked here: https://dextronix.com/ Also, please feel free to contact Jennifer Aldridge copied above.
Thanks,
Rob Urbach
They are amazing. I just let my cardiologist know I’m purchasing another one!
We have purchased 2 VET ECG units. One for our emergency triage area and one for cardiology suite. We have been extremely happy with the ease of use and the quality of the ECG. Even cat ECG quality is great. There are easy to use measurement tools and on the go marker tools to mark events in the ECG to find for review. ECGs are easily reviewed during recording and after recording is finished. The ECG in total or portions can be printed, but we rarely use this. We will digitally store part of the ECG in the medical record with a screen shot, but store all ECGs via the cloud. Cloud base makes it easy for the cardiologist to review any ECG recorded on either the Triage unit or the cardiology unit. We can even log in from home to review ECGs, which the emergency service appreciates for after hours cases. The Bluetooth capability means the patient does not have to be within cable distance of a computer. Very helpful in our triage area where we have several tables for patients, and an ECG can be run from any one of them without moving the computer. The device also transmit to an android pad that we can use for cage side ECG or for an impromptu ‘event monitor’ for activity induced episodes while in hospital. We do have telemetry in our CCU, but some dogs will have episodes only outside or when out for urination/defecation in the outdoor run. All in all, we have been very happy with the performance, durability and the quality of the device and the generated ECGs.
I have been using the ECG from Dextronix for 18 months. The device is small and easy to use. I have not had many issues with the device not working. If issues do arise, Dextronix customer service is quick to respond and easy to work with. I would recommend this ECG device to anyone who is looking for a small portable ECG.
Dextronix VET-ECG has been a great addition to our 24/7 Emergency and Specialty hospital. Not only is it is user friendly, the technical support is wonderful to work with. We highly recommend this product to anyone!
“VET-ECG” is an efficient and easy-to-use system for every hospital or mobile clinic. The size of the ECG and it’s Bluetooth capabilities make it the perfect on-the-go device for quick diagnostic ECGs. The quality of the recordings are outstanding and the caliper measurement application is a great feature”
“We love, love, love our VET-ECG system. It has greatly simplified obtaining, analyzing and storing ECG information in our busy cardiology group.”
“With the VET-ECG system I can easily record high quality, standardized ECGs in my patients on all of my Apple devices and instantly analyze and demonstrate the results for my clients.
“The Dextronix wireless ECG is a very nice and easy to use system. My clients are always impressed when they see the live ECG stream of their pets. And I find it very useful to be able to compare serial recordings on the same patient”
Portable. Compact. Precise. The VET-ECG has all the capabilities of a large 12 lead electrocardiogram that typically requires a cart to move it briskly throughout the hospital. You can simply place the VET-ECG in your pocket. The unit uses Bluetooth technology to seamlessly connect with your laptop to display the electrocardiogram. The data can be easily placed into a PDF, printed and/or stored as part of the electronic medical record. This lightweight unit is rapidly becoming the new standard for portable 6-12 lead electrocardiography.
“The ECG & Holter recorders are very durable and proofed usable in unusual environments. We are conducting studies on seals investigating their heart rhythm and heart rate variability during diving* and collected interesting results for our research”
(*extra precautions were taken to ensure system integrity)
I have been using the VET-ECG system for well over 500 cases now and am blown away by the ease of use, accuracy, and portability! The ECG quality is outstanding and measurements are ‘point and click’ precision. This system allows setting automatic or continuous recording periods, post-processing and selective lead viewing, and variable filters for artifact. With no effort, I have a digital ECG or exported PDF. Serial comparison of ECGs (lead by lead if desired) is easy. Every ECG is automatically saved without extra clicks. It works beautifully on dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, polar bears, and ferrets! Clients are always fascinated that I get so much information out of such a tiny little unit.
I have the ability to carry the most advanced diagnostics and up to a 12 lead system in my pocket. I could not speak highly enough of this system and continue to enjoy using it on a daily basis!