Monitor Mass Weight
My dog has CHF (Congestive Heart Failure) what can I expect?
My 13 year old Pekingese/Chihuahua mix was diagnosed with CHF almost 3 weeks ago. He's had a heart murmur for years and developed a cough a few months ago; both symptoms were being monitored by his vets. Then one day I noticed he was breathing fast and shallow and its CFH. It seems so sudden and really advanced. I guess I thought it would be a slower decline?
We started him on Flourosamide(?) to help with the fluid in his lungs. The following week we put him on Enalpril(?) for his heart. These meds seemed to be working. Then this past weekend I noticed his breathing was fast and shallow again. We have upped his flourosamide dosage and he seems to be doing better again. His eating is fine, even though I understand that the meds can lessen the appetite. He seems happy even though he tires quickly and has lost weight and muscle mass. So I'm not sure what to expect.
Any info would be appreciated? Does anyone else have past or present experiences with this?
My senior dog also has CHF and has had a heart murmur for as long as I can remember. He is on Lasix as well.. (furosemide) and he also takes a couple of other meds. The vet has chosen the med Enalapril most likely because of the symptoms he saw in your dog. It is one of the medications for CHF that also treats hypertension and has been effective in increasing the survival rate of those who have suffered a heart attack. As a nurse, I can tell you this is one of the meds that I have seen a lot of positive results with. Humans and dogs are, of course, different, but it does seem as though your vet is treating your dogs problem aggressively and that is good.
With the Lasix, a afe dosage is considered 1 to 2 mg per pound of the dog's body weight, one to two times a day. Sometimes it can be given three times a day, in divided doses. The vet will usually start with a small amount, with the theory that you give the least amount possible that works. It may need to be increased again at some point. We have increased Duffie's dosage three times and he is doing well now.
With the proper medications, your dog should do well. And it sounds like he is on the proper medications. If you notice your dog swelling, if he looks as though he has quickly gained weight without a diet change, go to the vet. Sometimes another med may also be added. You should continue to allow your dog exercise, but remember he is not going to be as fast as he once was. Do not force exertion, but let him tell you when he is tired. Over-exertion and over-stimulation is not good for the dog with CHF. For instance, I would not take him to a place where I know there are likely to be a lot of children that will attempt to fawn over him and pet him, or to a place where other dogs typically get very aggressive and excited in play. Treat him, like a senior dog, essentially.
As for what you should know with these medications: With the Lasix (furosemide) this is a diuretic so make sure you follow your vet's instructions as to diet. You may want to ask him the best diet for your dog if he has not discussed this with you. I hate to sound like a broken record, but you should really avoid food that has a lot of corn in it with this condition. Actually corn is not the best diet for any dog and most dog foods do contain it. So discuss this with your vet.
Also with the Lasix, make sure your dog has access to lots of fresh water as it will make him thirsty. he will also need to go out more frequently as he is going to be getting rid of all that excess fluid he has. He may have accidents after taking the Lasix if he cannot get outside. He honestly cannot help this as he will not be able to hold his urine. I try not to give the Lasix too late at night. Also, take care not to miss a dose. Keep him on a rigid medication schedule. If you do miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember and make sure you space the next dose far enough apart so he is not getting too much at one time. If it is really close to time for the next dosage, (within about 4 hours) skip the missed dosage and give the next dose.
If your dog becomes sick with nausea and vomiting, whereas many pet owners may wait it out for a day or so, you cannot afford to do this. You will need his fluid intake and output monitored closely on these meds. He will also need his heart beat monitored. You already recognize the cough as a sign he needs the vet. Nausea and vomiting, diarrhea or loss of appetite and not drinking are other signs.Because of the meds, he will need close supervision. I also check Duffie's heart beat at least once a day to make sure it is rhythmic and regular. As a nurse, I have a stethoscope, but you can do this by placing your hand over his heart, (on his undercarriage, just under his left front paw). You should be able to feel a regular, rhythmic heart beat ... just like yours. If it is not regular, or seems too slow or fast, call the vet. The one area that a lot of peoplehavee trouble is the "sick days" already mentioned. Remember, dehydration and Lasix do not mix, but your dog cannot afford a fluid buildup in his lungs. And a dehydrated dog can still have this problem because it is about fluid exchange. So remember... the vet when sick. No home treatments. One last thing, notice his breath and watch out for dental problems. Bad breath can mean bacteria that will affect his heart and dental issues can cause this. So keep his teeth checked.
Your dog will most likely do fine since you do seem to really care about him and want to do the right thing. Best of luck, and understand, your vet is giving the best care he can. With your loving care added, the dog should do well.
Best wishes and I will keep you and your dog in my thoughts and prayers.
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