Oliver is a 7 year old Chihuahua has CHF (Congestive Heart Failure)
Yesterday, Oliver’s owner noticed an increased respiratory effort and brought him into our Essendon Fields Pet Emergency Centre.
Oliver was placed in an oxygen chamber and admitted for supportive care.
The leading cause of heart failure in dogs is chronic valvular disease, next is dilated cardiomyopathy and then congenital heart disease and heartworms.
What is Congestive Heart Failure?
CHF occurs when either the heart muscle or the heart values are diseased and the heart is not able pump blood efficiently. This causes a build up of fluid in the lungs and also sometimes the abdomen. Congestion the lungs means not enough oxygen is available to the body.
Symptoms:
- Coughing more than usual
- Having a hard time breathing or exercising
- Tiring easily
- Pacing before bedtime
- Swollen belly due to fluid build-up in the lungs and other organs
- Fainting
- Tongue or gum change to a bluish grey colour
- Weight loss
Unchecked heart problems can make things harder on your dog and even shorten their life span. Receiving the right treatment and care your dog can go on to live a long life.
Sadly, Oliver’s heart disease will continue to progress and he is on medication for the rest of his life. The medication will give Oliver a happy and comfortable life for as long as possible.
Oliver has gone today with his caring owner and the staff at AAE wish him all the best.
Animal Accident & Emergency 