Gundog Training Forum

Hi all, hoping someone can help.
My springer, now 8 years old, has always been prone to some dry coughing. It's been likened to kennel cough symptoms but never goes away reoccurring after sometimes a week's absence. Never seemed to alter with the weather or exercise level. Vets in the past haver been dismissive and suggested possibly dust intolerance.
It has got worse lately so I asked my vet to investigate. After x-rays and blood tests the vet's diagnosis, confirmed by VetScan, was that the dog has an enlarged heart and chronic bronchitis; either of which could cause the cough. My vet has suggested an ECG and camera into the lungs to confirm the diagnosis but says there is no cure or treatment.
I am loathe to spend £1,000 plus on further tests if all they will do is confirm the problem when the dog's health is going to be no better. I have already retired him from beating as he suffers lameness in his front legs after a day's work. This has previously been diagnosed as arthritus.
If, as the vet suggests, there is nothing that can be done for the heart/lung condition what is the best I can do for him. He looks fit, eats well and still chases around everywhere apart from previously mentioned lameness. He seems fine and in no pain but who knows?
I would appreciate any thoughts or experience of this situation.
Thanks

Sorry to hear that. I'd see no point in throwing more money at it. You've retired the dog and as long as it has a reasonable quality of life I keep my old dogs going and if and when that changes I hope I'll call it a day sooner rather than later. I also like to bring retired dogs in with me for all or part of the time if they're kennelled to break up the tedium. But everyone is different and this is only a decision that you can make, but probably one of the most important and difficult decisions that you'll ever have to make.

Naj

Thanks for the reply Naj.
I do now bring the dog indoors part of the day for the reason you mention. It's only when you have him in you remember why you kenneled him out - he's a permanently "busy" spaniel and does not want to settle.
If only I was Dr. Doolittle I could have a chat with to see how he feels and if he's in any pain.

You can get medication which can help the heart, so at least go with that to give him a chance.

Several drugs could ease your dog's condition with no further diagnostics. Go back or find another vet.

Thanks for the further replies.
I shall return to my vet armed with that information.
This forum never fails to impress with the helpful replies and advice.

Yes, I was referring to the thousand pounds stuff when I said I wouldn't throw more many at the problem. If there were drugs available I'd certainly look at that option.

Naj

There are loads of drugs and combinations of to help the heart cope. My Collie x Springer was given Vetmedin, it gave her another 4 years of active, happy life.
Even if it's chronic bronchitis that's causing the problems there are treatments available, from steroid tablets to a range of inhalers.

Rekindling an old thread...Hector if you are still around, I would be interested in hearing more about your dog and what came of him.