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My senior dog has CHF with fluid in lungs. When is it time to say goodbye?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Wire Fox Terrier | Female | spayed | 12 years and 8 months old | 12 lbs

My Spunky dog was seen about her CHF. X RAYS showed her lungs were filled 3/4 of the way with fluid. 2 months ago there was no fluid! She was given a shot of Lasix and also put on 4 medications. We see the vet again in 3 days. Is this a typical route for an elderly dog? Also, any idea on prognosis? She's been lethargic, and coughs on occasion, but also very restless. She also has spurts of energy that last a few minutes here and there. How do I know when it's time to let go? She's my baby!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Oneal Bogan, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 14th, 2017

Hello, I'm sorry to hear about Spunky. It difficult when you receive news like that. It sounds like your vet is doing everything they can to remove the fluid from her lungs and support her heart health. CHF is unfortunately a serious condition and difficult to treat. I would consider her quality of life, and let that help you decide when to let her go. Keep a calendar of her good days and bad to help you visualize what her weeks are like. Also think about what you would want to live like, and if she's enjoying her life. I hope that is helpful. I have a senior dog and these decisions are never easy.

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