My Dogs Persistant Cough

Question
I have a 3 yr. old Parti-Pom, 7.5 lbs. and he has a persistant cough, a bad one, which I believe is related to a trachea problem.

I have taken him to the Vet several times, they have treated him with Anti-Biotics, Torbutrol and a lot of HOPE, but frankly, he already has a stenosis of the Trachea, so his airway causes him great discomfort...and he coughs badly. Poor little guy really gets a serious cough going, usually whenever he rises from a nap, and always it is that "Cough-Up" attempt, but nothing comes up...and he has the "Snorting" thing going on...?

My question is:  Is there any way to have blood tests done to make sure he does not have a Bonchial Infection and that would give a succinct prognosis, especially if he has a Tracheal Restriction that can be corrected?

I hate to think of him just taking Torbutrol for the rest of his life, as it does make him a little lethargic...??? I live in San Diego, and although I live on a Veteran's Pension, I want to find the bestDoctor I can to really give him the "Once-Over" and find a treatment that WORKS!

THanks Much.
Ray  

Answer
you CAN have surgery to correct a collapsig trachea. Though its not done by your regular vet- usually a surgeon.

the cough will remain if this does not get corrected.

if you are concerned with an chronic bacterial infection, ask for a tracheal wash to be done and have it cultured.


if all else fails, get a second opinion :)

ps. torb is not the ONLY answer for a cough med.