chf cough

Question
Hi Marie - I've written to you a few times about my lil 11 yo beagle with CHF.  To give you an update, she's doing well, except for the cough which the vet says won't go away on the lasix and enalapril alone (even with the homemade diet and supplements I've got her on).  He wants her to go on pimopendan, something that would be a little hard for me to afford, but I feel its an all or nothing med - either they get really better or they die suddenly, and I just don't want to take that chance, so I'm not putting her on that.  She's taking the Vetri Science cardiac supplement and hawthorn, as well as the other supplements I believe I mentioned in my previous emails.  Anyway, my question is, what can be done about this cough? In this hot weather we've been having, she coughs a lot more, yet otherwise is fine and usually sleeps through the night without coughing, though its the first thing she does upon awakening.  I've tried a little honey, and even added a little crushed peppermint candy (not much)and a little real ginger, just to soothe her throat, but I don't know if this is really doing anything.  I've seen the Honey Heart syrup, but its very expensive and I've been searching for something natural that'll help her. do you have any suggestions?  thanks so much for your help.  Evelyn

Answer
Hi Evelyn,  I wrote to you but I guess it was never sent.  Sorry for the delay.
Let's try this again.   
The CHF cough can't be helped with any cough meds.  It mainly is related to the pulmonary valve and the heart.  The Lasix is very helpful for this.  Nothing will stop a CHF cough 100%.

I am sorry but there is nothing to help on this cough.
I sure do understand you need to watch your finances.  Just do the best that you and your Vet can do on a fixed budget.  

Blessings to you both.

Marie Peppers LPN MA