I just adopted my (barely) 2 year old pomeranian/dachshund mix from a shelter on Friday. He is a sweet little boy and has given me no problems at all. I noticed after I adopted him that he was having coughing/wheezing fits about twice a day lasting for about 15-20 seconds each and brought him to the vet yesterday. She suggested that he probably had tracheal collapse and after researching and seeing videos on youtube, I am 99% sure this is the case. The vet brushed it off and didn't give me much information, so I had to research myself. Needless to say, my heart is broken. I've been crying about this since last night. The information on how serious this is seems to be conflicting. My questions are:
Is the fact that he is only 2 years old a bad sign? Will his life expectancy be shortened?
Should I consider surgery if it worsens? I read that surgery for this condition is more helpful if done at a younger age.
What are the treatments that will help him?
Since he has not officially been diagnosed, should I get him pet health insurance soon, before it is considered a pre-existing condition?
Thank you for any help/comfort you can provide. I just don't want him to suffer!
Is the fact that he is only 2 years old a bad sign? Will his life expectancy be shortened?
Should I consider surgery if it worsens? I read that surgery for this condition is more helpful if done at a younger age.
What are the treatments that will help him?
Since he has not officially been diagnosed, should I get him pet health insurance soon, before it is considered a pre-existing condition?
Thank you for any help/comfort you can provide. I just don't want him to suffer!
