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Did I choose correctly for my senior dog's laryngeal paralysis?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 80 lbs

My dog has laryngeal paralysis, and we had to do a debark surgery on him. So far only one side and they want us to come back to do the other side. My dog is 11 years old. I’m worried I made the wrong decision. Do you Think I made a bad choice to do this? I couldn’t afford the tie back and this was my only option. Thank you!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 17th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Is gunner better with just one side being done? If he is then leave him be and see how he does. I think that you did the best thing for him that you could. Your Vet wouldn't have done the procedure if they didn't think it was the right thing to do. Even if his breathing is noisy as long as he isn't over heating you probably did improve his quality of life. Just be careful on hot humid days, he shouldn't be outside long. If he starts getting noisy and distressed looking hose him down with cool water, bring him indoors and put a box fan on him. You can also ask your vet for sedatives to keep him calm during events that make him anxious so he won't go in to respiratory distress. I hope this helps and I wish you and Gunner the very best!

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