Older Golden Labored Breathing

[jessmom]

My 12 1/2 year old golden is having a hard time walking. She's been in one spot for 3 days now and only gets up to go to the bathroom and we have to carry her out to do that. I've started giving her aspirin twice a day and that seems to help her a little. I've ordered some glucosamine/chondroitin and hoping that will help but in the mean time I've noticed she seems to have labored breathing and when she actually walks two difficult steps she breathes very heavily as though she just ran a mile. There has been no coughing, but I'm wondering if this is her heart. I've also noticed her one eye has been running quite a bit. Do dogs catch colds? Lots to work with here. I'd appreciate any thoughts. Thanks

[LuvGold00]

I would get her to the vet, better to be safe than sorry!

[Karen]

I would take her to the vet. Dogs can get respiratory infections, but the symptoms could be caused by other things, too. I think a vet trip Monday morning is in order. Make sure she is getting enough water, and food, too.

[Albea]

Please don't give aspirin to a dog before consulting with the vet, even if you think is helping. The only person who can answer all of your questions is a vet. I hope there's nothing serious with your pup.

[dragondawg]

as in virus "colds" as we know them. Yes there is a virus-bacteria combo involvement yielding Kennel Cough, but over all things like "flu" are almost non-existent in dogs.

However they can get opportunistic bacterial infections of the lungs if their immune systems become suppressed. In older dogs especially bacterial infections in the lungs, leads to fluids in the lungs, which in turn can yield congestive heart failure and death.

Labored breathing is a classical sign of lung infections. You need to take the dog to a Vet for antibiotics (e.g. Clavamox, Baytril), and a diuretic to get rid of any fluids.

After the infection clears you then need to find out what precipitated it. In older dogs one always has to suspicion the possibility of cancer in the background. After the infection has cleared, you should get a blood panel workup. If anything turns up suspicious (e.g. high WBCs, high calcium, low RBCs/hematocrit, low platlets), then an ultrasound should be performed.

In general aspirin is bad for dogs. There is a high chance of ulcers developing. Even with acid blockers there is a possibility of stomach irritation. NSAIDs such as Deramaxx can be obtained from a Vet that will be less harsh, and provide better pain relief for arthritis. But for now, arthritis if present is secondary to other possible problems.

[jessmom]

I am thinking there is definitely something else going on besides the arthritis. She has become very weak as well. My husband's rearranged his work schedule so we can get to the vet tomorrow. Thanks again.

[Logan]

Good luck. I hope the vet will be able to help.

We have a Lab who is going to be 15 in a few weeks. She moves only when necessary, too, and is very arthritic. She also breathes heavily and pants like crazy. Our vet ruled out any respiratory problems......says that this happens a lot in older dogs. I'm sure you'll feel better once she has been checked over thoroughly.

Let us know what he says.

Logan

[jessmom]

Our golden was diagnosed with cancer in her spleen and we had her put to sleep today.

[Thandi]

Deepest sympathies, Jessmom. Be happy for your baby that it was quick.

[chocolatepuppy]

I'm so sorry. I'm sure she had a good life and knew she was loved.

[Albea]

I'm so sorry to read of your loss.
May happy memories of your pup bring you some measure of comfort.
Unfortunately, spleen problems are very common in Goldens. Mine had her spleen removed in October '03, before it became malignant.
My most sincere condolences to your family, I'll be thinking of you.

[KYS]

RIP sweet baby.

(((hugs)))

[Dixieland Dancer]

I am sorry for your loss. I know how difficult this is. I hope you find some comfort in knowing she is pain free now and running happy at the bridge.

[anna_66]

Oh no, I'm sorry to hear of your loss

[sammy101]

o im so sorry
RIP sweet girl