13 y.o with Collapsed trachea and cushions - is it safe to be sedated?

Help, what do I do? My heart is breaking right now. My 13-year-old Maltese, Muffin, has been diagnosed with both a collapsed trachea and Cushing's disease. She's been my best friend since college, and seeing her struggle like this is really tough. The vet mentioned that she might need to be sedated for a more thorough examination, but I'm terrified of the risks given her age and health issues. Has anyone been through something like this? Are there safer sedation options or anything I should know to make this less risky for her? I just want to make sure she's as comfortable and safe as possible. Any advice or experiences would be so appreciated.

Answer

Thanks for reaching out with your concerns. It's completely understandable to be cautious, given your dog's diagnosis of a collapsed trachea and Cushing's disease.



In dogs, a collapsed trachea means that there is a weakening of the cartilage rings in the trachea, which can cause breathing difficulties. Cushing's disease affects your dog's hormones and can complicate other conditions. When it comes to sedation, it's crucial to approach this with extra care, especially in senior dogs with existing health issues.



Sedation can potentially put extra strain on their respiratory system and affect how well their body manages stress. That being said, veterinarians can tailor sedation protocols to minimize risk, possibly using lighter sedatives and closely monitoring your pet's vital signs.



At home, ensure that your pup is as stress-free as possible. Keep them in a cool, calm environment and avoid activities that might cause excitement or stress. Be vigilant for increased coughing, difficulty breathing, or lethargy. These may indicate that their condition has worsened and warrants prompt veterinary attention.



Given your dog's complex medical history, I suggest booking a video consultation with one of our veterinarians on Dial A Vet. This will allow us to delve deeper into your pet's specific needs and discuss a sedation plan that prioritizes their safety.

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