We've all seen our dogs panting
– those rapid, shallow respirations characterized by open-mouthed breathing
Usually, panting is a response to environmental changes
such as anxiety, fear, excitement or heat
and protruding tongue. Panting
often occurs after a long walk or brisk play, or sometimes while resting during
hot summer afternoons. We've seen it so often we've accepted it as commonplace.
But should you ever be concerned when your dog pants?
That all depends. Panting may be common, but it may represent a more severe,
even life-threatening illness and should not be ignored.
Why Dogs Pant
There are many causes of panting. Most commonly it is in response to environmental
changes, such as anxiety, fear, excitement, or heat. However, if panting is
excessive or your pet is in distress, it is important to identify the underlying
cause. Some of these causes are:
Respiratory Disorders. It might be an upper respiratory tract problem
such as nasal blockages, growths in the nose or back of the throat, or a collapsing
trachea.In the lower respiratory tract, problems might include an inadequate
exchange of gases, fluid in the lungs or lung disease. Disease of the chest
cavity might include air, fluid or masses in the chest cavity, or diaphragmatic
hernias.
Cardiovascular Disorders. The heart might be affected with disorders
such as heartworm disease, pulmonary embolism (blood clot), or heart failure.
Hematologic Disorders. Blood disease is sometimes a factor. Common
disorders are anemia and carbon monoxide poisoning
Neurologic Disorders. Diseases of the nervous system can also affect
the respiratory center. Some of these might involve head trauma, brain tumors,
or abnormality of the respiratory muscles.
Miscellaneous Disorders. Some other problems that can affect breathing
are heat related illness, drug poisoning, high altitude, abdominal pressure
caused by pregnancy, fluid in the abdomen, and some diseases.
What Should You Do?
If you notice excessive panting in your dog, look for signs of immediate
distress like coughing, difficulty breathing (dyspnea), or blue color to the
mucus membranes (cyanosis). Be on the alert, too, for other problems, such
as fatigue, weight loss, poor appetite, excessive drinking, vomiting, or
diarrhea.
If it appears that your pet is panting in response to normal events such
as exercise, excitement, heat or fear, remove the stimulation and continue
to observe your pet. If panting continues, consult your veterinarian.
Some Initial Tests Your Vet May Do
Your veterinarian may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic
tests to determine the cause of your pet's panting.
Complete blood count and urinalysis. A complete blood count (CBC),
biochemical profile, and urinalysis may suggest conditions such as anemia,
infection, or diabetes.An arterial blood gas assesses the acid-base status.
X-rays. Your vet may want to x-ray your pet's chest and abdomen to
be sure there are no foreign bodies or tumors present in the upper respiratory
tract.
Ultrasound. An ultrasound of the heart, chest and abdomen evaluates
the size of the organs and detects the presence of fluid or masses.
More Specific Tests
If your vet is unable to make a definitive diagnosis with the initial tests,
further tests will be needed.
Endocrine testing. An ACTH stimulation test or thyroid panel may
help to rule out hyperadrenocorticism (a disease of the adrenal gland) or
an underactive thyroid gland.
An ARAT (acetylcholine receptor antibody titer) test. This test determines
the presence of a disease called myasthenia gravis, an immune disorder that
affects the muscles. This disease is usually accompanied by weakness, regurgitation,
and possibly pneumonia.
A heartworm test. The presence of heartworms in dogs occludes the
vessels of the lungs and affects breathing.
Thoracentesis. Occasionally your vet may want to perform a thoracentesis,
a procedure to withdraw fluid, air, or tissue from the chest.
Treatment
Even before a diagnosis is made, your vet will probably treat your pet's
symptoms. Initially, he will recommend strict rest and oxygen therapy. But
he may also offer other treatments:
If your pet is dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhea, he may start IV fluid
therapy.
Blood transfusion may be indicated in the presence of severe anemia.
Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs may be administered for infection
or inflammation.
Once the cause of your pet's problem is determined, your vet will prescribe
specific treatment. While caring for your pet at home, be sure to administer
all prescribed medications. Keep your pet in a cool, stress-free environment,
and avoid overexertion. And finally, return for follow-up evaluation as directed
by your veterinarian.
This article has been provided courtesy of PetPlace.com
(www.petplace.com), the definitive
online source for pet news, health,
and wellness information."
The above information is simply informational. It's intent is not
to replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a diagnosis
of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for confirmation of
any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.
