My collie suffered from congestive heart failure also. Our University Medical center told us she had 6 to 18 months to live. That was over 2 years ago, and she is now totally OFF of all heart meds. Her heart did sustain some damage, but she is fine now. This is what saved her:

http://www.dog-health-care-information.com/heartdisease

You might want to check this out.

Linda (colliemom)