A vet has issued an urgent appeal to all dog owners who have pets aged seven and older, warning of the symptoms to look out for of one particularly worrying condition
A vet has an important warning for all dog owners with pets aged seven and older. Amir Anwary, known as @amirthevet on TikTok, has emphasised the importance of monitoring your ageing dog’s health to enhance their wellbeing and lifespan.
In his video, he stated: “One of the most common conditions affecting older dogs is congestive heart failure (CHF).” He went on to explain that many dog owners are unaware of how to identify the symptoms of CHF.
By recognising these symptoms and starting early treatments, you can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life and longevity. Congestive heart failure, a chronic condition that prevents the heart from pumping blood efficiently, leads to fluid build-up affecting lungs and limbs.
He added: “Most of the symptoms associated with heart failure are due to two things – a persistent cough. You’ll notice your dog begins to cough more, this will be especially bad in the morning.
“This happens due to fluid accumulation in the lungs. Number two is difficulty breathing.
“Your dog will start to pant a lot more and has very shallow breaths and this is also due to fluid accumulation in the lungs.
“Number three is fatigue. You’ll notice if you take your dog for a walk, they can’t keep up anymore and are getting tired faster.
“That’s because there isn’t enough oxygen going throughout their body and the muscles and tissues are simply not getting enough oxygen to keep going.”
A decrease in appetite is the fourth red flag for heart disease.. As less blood and oxygen reach the GI tract, it can cause a drop in hunger.
Anwary stressed: “If you are recognising any of these symptoms, please take your dog to a vet and have it checked out.” Owners have since come forward with their stories.
One grateful owner commented: “Buddy was diagnosed with CHF five years ago. He is almost 17 and doing well with meds! This is helpful info!”
Another shared: “I have a 13 year old dog with heart disease and kidney disease. Had I not started treating her last year she would not be with us.”
A third owner sadly revealed: “My dog died a couple days ago from this. We tried everything we could but she didn’t make it. I’m glad you are bringing awareness into this.”
If you’re worried about your pet’s health, it is advised to contact a vet immediately.
