Dogs who have congestive heart failure (CHF) are faced with a difficult decision.
Even though their quality of life can be greatly diminished by the disease, many owners still opt to keep their pets and make medical decisions as needed.
But when is it time to put your dog down?
This article will help you determine when it’s time for your dog with CHF to go on his last trip—and what that final goodbye should look like.
When To Put Down Dog With Congestive Heart Failure
If your dog is suffering and in pain, if he can’t eat or drink, if he can’t stand up if he can’t walk, and/or has trouble breathing which are all signs of congestive heart failure, you may want to consider putting him down.
How To Diagnose Congestive Heart Failure In Dogs?
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
It can be caused by many different things, such as:
- Heart disease, including congenital defects and infections
- Arrhythmias (abnormal electrical activity within the heart)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Anemia is a lack of red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body
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Symptoms Of Congestive Heart Failure In Dogs
Congestive heart failure can be hard to diagnose, but there are lots of signs and symptoms that may indicate your dog has it.
Panting
One of the most common symptoms is panting.
If you notice your dog panting more than normal, even on a hot day or after exercise, it may have congestive heart failure.
Getting tired easily
Your dog may seem to be out of breath even after mild exercises, such as walking around your house or yard.
He may pant excessively after exercise, especially on hot days or if he’s stressed by loud noises or activities around him.
Fever
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not addressed.
It occurs when the heart is not able to pump enough blood to the body, which causes fatigue and shortness of breath.
If left untreated, CHF can lead to renal failure, liver disease, and other problems.
Difficulty breathing
Your dog may cough frequently because he has fluid in his lungs that makes them expand like balloons; he may also have trouble swallowing food because of his esophagus.
Treatment For Congestive Heart Failure In Dogs
Treatment for congestive heart failure in dogs is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease, relieving symptoms, and improving quality of life.
The most important aspect of treatment is making sure your dog stays as stress-free as possible.
This means keeping him or her quiet and calm, avoiding stressful situations, and not overfeeding.
Other treatments include:
- Dietary changes, such as adding fiber to their diet help loosen up any mucus that may be present in their lungs.
- Medications to control fluid buildup and medications to lower blood pressure.
- A veterinary exam every six months or so to monitor your pet’s condition, assess blood pressure levels and check for any signs of infection like an elevated white blood cell count or fever.
Conclusion
If you think your dog might have CHF, make sure to take it to the vet as soon as possible.
This will help your vet determine whether or not your dog does have CHF, and if treatment is needed.
The sooner a diagnosis can be made, the better chances for recovery there are!
