I have a 13 year old dog who has been on Enalapril, Theophalin and Digioxin for a heart murmur for about 5 years now. Lately it is becoming more and more difficult to wake him up (in the morning especially). Is this normal for a dog of his age and heart problem or does this mean he is getting worse. He just had his checkup with xray that showed his heart was basically pretty stable. Thanks to anyone who may be able to help me out.

He is on pretty strong drugs, remember, and also at 13, he could be going deaf, so it will take longer for the morning noises to get through his subconscious.

Don't worry too much about it - he's an old boy now, just wants that extra 5 minutes in bed :D

I know Purdey wasn't so keen on getting up as she got older.

One thing you do know - he isn't in pain - otherwise he would be up.

Margot

Hi Ellen.  My twelve year old who also has heart problems takes some getting up in the mornings.  He will not move for me at all.  Hubby has to put his collar and lead on him and try and encourage him to get up, shouting walkies, sausages, dinner, get in the van and then open his eyes up for him to see that its daytime.  It takes a good half hour to get him moving.

Hi Ellen,

I had an elderly girl with a minor heart problem who was definitely more inclined to go into very deep sleeps - she wasn't on as many meds as your old boy but was going quite deaf so noises that would previously have stirred her from sleep went unnoticed ;)  Try not to worry too much.  Obviously he's a fair age now and even without his medical complications he will be slowing down in general and they all sleep more as they become OAPs - just take more time to enjoy him when he's kick started himself of a morning - the oldies are very precious.

{{{hugs}}} to him from me, regards Teri :)  

Thanks Teri and all who replied, it was very comforting to hear about your dogs having the same problems. It was very kind of you, it made me day. I can tell your dog is precious to you as well. It is so hard to face the end is maybe in sight.
     Ellen

We've all been there, Ellen, we know exactly what's in front of you - cherish your time now, and store up the good memories {{{hugs}}}}

Margot