Kids and Canines Share Heartwarming Bond at Abbott PDA Playdate

As part of Heart Health Month, Abbott, a medical device manufacturer, hosted a unique playdate bringing together children and dogs who share a remarkable bond: all were born with a hole in their hearts known as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and were successfully treated using minimally invasive technologies.

The event highlighted the life-changing impact of modern heart care through joyful, unscripted interactions between children and their canine counterparts. Both groups, once facing serious health challenges, were able to play, run and interact freely — demonstrating how innovative treatments can help patients recover faster and thrive without the need for open-heart surgery.

“This event celebrated both inspiring children and resilient puppies who share a similar journey with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), or a hole in their hearts,” said Brent Tippen, director of public affairs for Abbott’s structural heart business. “The energetic playdate honored the playful nature of living life to the fullest, and Abbott is honored to be a part of their treatment and in bringing together the unique intersection between puppy and child.”

PDA is a common and potentially life-threatening congenital heart defect that occurs when a temporary opening between two blood vessels fails to close after birth. Left untreated, PDA can lead to serious complications including heart failure, breathing difficulties and impaired growth. The condition affects approximately 20% of premature infants requiring treatment.

PDA is also one of the most common congenital heart defects in dogs, accounting for 11% to 28% of cases. Without treatment, three out of five dogs with PDA may not survive their first year.

Abbott’s minimally invasive devices — including the Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder for infants and the Amplatz Canine Ductal Occluder for dogs — are designed to close the opening safely without open heart surgery. The playdate underscored how these innovations are improving outcomes across both human and veterinary medicine.

Photos courtesy of Abbott.