Something weird just happened, and I really need some guidance. My sweet dog, Max, has been diagnosed with cardiomyopathy for a while now, and for the most part, we’ve been managing okay. But lately, things have changed, and I’m getting worried. It’s been two days since he started breathing more heavily, like he’s been running, even though he’s just been resting. I’ve also noticed that he’s way more tired than usual, almost like he’s avoiding moving around unless it’s absolutely necessary. Early this morning, his appetite seemed to just vanish, which is completely unlike him, and it felt like he was looking at me for answers. I’m not sure if these are signs that things are getting worse or if I’m overthinking it. Have any of you gone through this? Any advice would be amazing right now.
I completely understand why you're worried. Cardiomyopathy can be a challenging condition for both you and your beloved dog. In the later stages of this disease, you may notice a few key changes. These include increased fatigue or weakness, even with minimal activity, difficulty breathing, coughing, or fluid accumulation in the body leading to a swollen belly or limbs. Your dog might also display a decreased appetite, behavior changes, or seem less interested in usual activities.
At home, try to make your pup as comfortable as possible. Ensure they have a cozy place to rest with easy access to fresh water and their favorite foods. It’s okay to pamper them a bit; sometimes a little extra love helps!
Keep an eye out for any signs of distress like severe difficulty breathing, a bluish tint to the gums or tongue, fainting, or restlessness, as these may suggest that your dog needs immediate veterinary care.
I strongly encourage you to book a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. We can discuss specific concerns about your dog’s condition and offer more personalized advice to help you manage this time compassionately and effectively.
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