Hi all

I've taken my dog, a 13 year old fox-terrier to the vet and she has a large heart murmur (wasn't given a number) and an enlarged heart (x-rays indicated fluid).  She collapsed the other day.  She also has heavy breathing when she sleeps and coughs as if she's going to vomit but nothing comes out. The vet gave me Vetmedin and Frudis tablets for treatment.  I realise that she is old (vet said should have another 12 months before she passes away) but I want her to be happy in the late stages of her life.  Is there anything else I can do for her?  Maybe something to do with her diet?  I'd love to still be able to take her on walks, she loves exercise.  Is it ok to take her on 10 minute walks or will this worsen the situation.

I'd really appreciate any help, I don't have to tell people here just how much a dog can mean to a person!!!

Cheers

My terrier was just over 15 when she died about a year ago, in the last few months she was pretty much as you describe and on very similar medicines.  A food formulated for the elderly can be useful, amongst other differences they tend to have more vitamins as an older dog finds these harder to utilise.
My philosophy on care of the elderly at this stage, though, is feed them whatever they enjoy, exercise when they want it for how long they want it etc., nothing is going to turn their condition around so life should be all about extracting what pleasure can be and when it becomes a chore for them call it a day.  My old soul was also troubled by arthritis which often put her off eating and looking back now I wish I had been more proactive in deciding to call it a day as I find modern vets are more reluctant to take on that decision for you than they used to but it is all easier said than done isn't it? :)

My thoughts and feelings go out to you. We have a 13 month old Bichon who collapsed a few times and was breathless. After taking him to the vets a grade 6 heart murmer was diagnosed and we were refered to a cardiologist at Edinburgh Veterinary hospital. We went in March and they said it was a PDA. Here's the science - Patent Ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that should close off when they are born doesn't therefore not enough oxygen is getting round the body. We had traveled 160 miles oneway so had to leave him there for surgery. It was the longest 5 days wait ever. Now he is running around like a typical youngster.
At the time we were told to limit exercise to short walks but often. I agree with the above reply and anything that brings pleasure to them. It is so upsetting and our thoughts and wishes are with you.
Deb

Your letter has brought sad memories back to me and i have a good idea of how you must be feeling. Our two and a half year old golden retriever was diagnosed with four seperate heart conditions when she was only 1 year old. after attending the royal veterinary college we were told she had 6 months to live and could only be exercised on the lead. She absolutely loved running around and playing ball etc. and as a family we decided that we would let her conyinue to do this for as long as was possible.She had a daily regime of having 13 tablets and am glad we came to this decision as on the day she died she had just been for her usual run in the parl and had a lovely time. We miss her so much but managed to keep her happy for one year after being diagnosed- even though she was given 6 months. She too had 2 occassions where she collapsed but afterwards would behave as if nothing had happened. Thinking of you and everyone else in this situation. Good luck.

Thats very sad those dogs are so young, what a shame.

Warm regards Susan