Is coughing common for dogs after slow kill heartworm treatment?

Question

Is it common for a dog to cough or dry hacking after slow kill heartworm treatment. We are only 45 days in he had no coughing or dry hacking prior. Thanks. Pet's info: Dog | German Shorthaired Pointer | Male | neutered | 48 lbs

C. Rathjens, DVM · Accepted Answer

Coughing can occur from the damage the worms are doing to the lungs. It could also be caused by the worms dying off and causing inflammation, although I'm not sure how likely that is with the slow kill method. I would recommend keeping him crated and resting (no walks, no running, no excitement -- basically no getting his heart rate up) until he can get to the vet for evaluation, which will likely include chest x-rays and a discussion of if he needs anti-inflammatory medication and cage rest to get through this treatment. Wishing you and Bug (love his name!) the best of luck.

Is coughing common for dogs after slow kill heartworm treatment?

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