[DogLoverAJ]

Our chihuahua, Ricky, could really use some help. He is a 2 1/2 year old neutered male who weighs 4lbs.

We thought that he had Kennel Cough, and it sounds just like it, but... it has lasted about 6 weeks, and none of our other dogs have gotten it.

Does anyone know what else it could be? He has been to the vet twice, was given Amoxicillin & cough tablets, but they did nothing. Neither has any over-the-counter cough medicine. Our poor little guy can't get any relief. He seems to do a tiny bit better sometimes, and then gos straight down hill again.

Other than the cough & gag, he eats fine, is alert & has no other symptoms. He is very tired from all of the coughing though.... and so are we! Nobody can sleep very well around here, and haven't been able to in 6 weeks.

Thank you.

 

[agility collie mom]

Could it be this:

http://www.terrificpets.com/forum/14273.asp

Here is some more information:

http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_tracheal_collapse.html

I would also suggest taking your little one to another vet for a second opinion.

 

[Thracian]

My friend's dog had kennel cough ("cough and gag" describes it perfectly) for several months. She tried a variety of home remedies and prescribed medicines for him, but it eventually turned into pneumonia. He's fine now.

It wouldn't surprise me a bit if your dog did have a persistent case of kennel cough.

 

[agility collie mom]

How is your little chi?

 

[DogLoverAJ]

He is doing ok. We took him a vet again, and after many tests, he was diagnosed with a respiratory infection bordering on pneumonia. He was given Cephalexin & Temaril P.

The vet is also trying to boost his immune system with Vitamin C - 250mg per day.

The vet said that the reason he is taking so long to heal, is from damage done to his little lungs (bad scar tissue damage) from having a pneumonia when he was 4 months old.

Our fingers are crossed for our Ricky. Thank you all for your help! We'll keep you posted.

 

[agility collie mom]

Glad to hear that Ricky is doing ok and that you have a treatment plan. Hope he feels better soon.