My senior dog with Cushing's is bloated and panting. Is it time?

Question

15.5 dachshund with Cushing's and heart murmur. Started panting and is very bloated but eating and drinking fine and no pottie problems. He is on alot of drugs for his arthritis - rimidyal, tramadol and muscle relaxers. He takes them everyday. Worried about his sudden bloat and panting. Vet said he is on the highest doses of all medications. I don't want him to go but also don't want to be cruel. How do I know when it's time? Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered | 15 years and 7 months old | 21 lbs

Christie Long, DVM · Accepted Answer

You probably know that Cushing's disease causes the abdominal wall muscles to atropy, which leads to a "pot-bellied" appearance, so what you are seeing may be a normal complication of his disease. Panting is of course also a symptom of Cushings, so my advice would be to consult his veterinarian about modifying the dosage of medication he is taking to control that disease to help to control symptoms better. Dogs can live for several years with Cushing's, and I'd encourage you to consider trying a different dosage scheme before considering whether it's time to say goodbye.

My senior dog with Cushing's is bloated and panting. Is it time?

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