My senior dog is breathing hard and losing weight. What should I do?

Question

Hello my dog is 15 years old and she’s having trouble breathing she’s like breathing really hard and she’s also losing weight and as I remind u she’s old and I’m worried ? Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 40 lbs

Jessica Keay, DVM · Accepted Answer

I am sorry to hear about Pinta. These symptoms are unfortunately concerning, especially in an older dog. Difficulty breathing is a very serious condition and considered an emergency if she is struggling to get breath normally. Possible causes can vary from primary lung issues such as infections like pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, and tumors in the lung. Heart disease can also result in breathing problems, as can sudden anemia due to bleeding inside the body cavity. I would recommend getting Pinta into the vet as soon as possible, and if she is struggling to breath then she needs to visit the emergency vet if your vet is closed. They will examine her and likely recommend x-rays of the lungs. This will help them determine if treatment is possible or if she can be made more comfortable. Best of luck to you and Pinta.

My senior dog is breathing hard and losing weight. What should I do?

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