health

Question
My 13 yr old male pom has been diagnosed as having a collapsing trachia and as a result has been having trouble breathing. He has always had respiratory problems but this is different. He hacks and coughs all night. The vet prescribed prednisone but it doesn't seem to help. Can you suggest or have you heard of anything that would alleviate his discomfort. Any help would be appreciated.

Answer
Larry,

Hello!  I'm so sorry to hear about your Pom's condition.  It breaks my heart to hear of a Pom that is so uncomfortable.  As far as helping him feel better long term, make sure you keep his weight under control.  I know that doesn't sound like it could help him right now, but it is extremely important for his health on down the road, and his "fits" won't be real bad.  

Now, as far as doing something now to make him feel better.  I don't know what else for you to do other than get some medicine to help with the "fits".  You need to go to your vet and tell him (or her?) that the medicine is NOT helping your Pom and that he is miserable and constantly coughing and that you need something else to make him feel better.  It is not fair for the Pom to have to suffer.

Hope I've helped you (at least a little) and please keep me posted!

Sheri