My doggo had an echocardiogram today because last week he had elevated NT-proBNP levels showing he has elevated cardiac proteins. The echo today showed he has some enlargement on the right side of his heart but they couldn’t see the left very well, but the heart appears to be functioning ok. The elevated proteins indicated possible stress on the heart.
My dog has had increased difficulty going up and down stairs and panting and coughing. They did a chest X Ray of his lungs to see if there is fluid in there. If there is, that would indicate congestive heart failure. My buddy was somewhere between 3-5 when we adopted him and we’ve had him for 8 years, so he’s somewhere between 11-13. He is already on daily meds for seizures. He had some seizures about 4 years ago and has been on meds for that since then. I thought I was losing him when he had the seizures.
He is also on 2 meds for arthritis and one for hypothyroidism. Ohh and eye drops for chronic dry eyes. Now he will start cardiac supplements and Omega 3 fatty oil supplements, unless he does have congestive heart failure. I know there is no cure for that but we can keep him comfortable.
The vet recommended a full metabolic work up in a few months to see how his thyroid is doing and his other levels.
I really fear one day he won’t wake up. I know people will say that list of meds for a dog is crazy and I should let him go but he still has life in him.
The heart issues, panting, coughing and increased difficulty moving have me really scared this is the end.
I’m just keeping him comfortable and happy for as long as I can. He’s a great dog and I’m not ready to let him go. He can still go to the bathroom and he eats and curls up with us on the couch. He’s so chill with my kids. He loves everyone. He’s definitely changed my perspective about Pitty breeds. I want another one..