How likely is Westie lung disease? What signs should I watch for?

Question

Hello, My 12y old westie passed away from pulmonary embolism and since then ive read tones of information on Westie lung decease. I have a smaller westie and im really scared about the chances of getting idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Nowhere did i find how many westies on avarage get it or some percentage or something to calm me. Do all westies get sick at some point? is it 50/50 chance is it 1 in 10 dogs? Please help with some information. Thank you. Pet's info: Dog | West Highland White Terrier | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 1 month old

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

I am so sorry for your loss. I know it's hard. I don't think you should worry yourself too much about this with your other dog. I know it's hard not to think about it but there is nothing you can do about it. There is no way to predict if she will get it or not. You will make yourself sick with worry and it is out of your control. The best thing you can do is be hypervigilant with clinical signs. If you notice any, then have her examined right away. If you can diagnose it early there will be a better chance at survival. The first noticeable signs are exercise intolerance, increased respiratory rate, coughing and wheezing. Often the slight change in exercise tolerance is not recognized by the owner and it is usually attributed to aging. There was a study done where it was found that some owners noticed mild clinical signs up to a year before respiratory distress was seen. They just attributed it to aging and didn't have their vet examine the dog. The key is early intervention. I would recommend yearly chest x-rays for her if you are really worried, especially as she gets older. Once she is over 8 years old, I would say to do the x-rays every 6 months. There are no statistics as to how many Westies may be afflicted. The genetic component of the disease is still being worked out. I can tell you that the average age of onset of this disease is 9 years of age. Life expectancy after diagnosis (if caught early) is about 18 months after diagnosis. I know it is difficult but please try not to worry too much. I have been a vet for 15 years and have been in the veterinary field a total of 20 years and I have only seen this once in a Westie.

How likely is Westie lung disease? What signs should I watch for?

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