Diet change/Pedigree to Nutro

Question
Our 10-year-old miniature is presentlyunder vet's care. Was panting quite a bit and labored breathing.  X-rays show fluid around her heart, liver pressing on her heart. She is presently undergoing tests, x-rays, lab.  Last test was yesterday a urinalysis to check for possible Cushing's diseae.  All labs normal except for her Alk. phos apx 1111.  Vet did not change diet yet,but I would like to as we have been feeding her Pedigree wet. My niece suggested dry Nutro Lamb and rice. What is your opinion.  I would like to at least have a jump start.   I know you are not a vet, but have poodles.  Thanks so much!Appreciate your response

Answer
Hi Gloria :-)

I am not familiar with Nutro because I am from UK. But I wouldn't think a complete diet change will improve your dogs overall health unless she is overweight. In this case I would use dry food mixed with some Pedigree meat and a lot of dry food does not contain the same nutrients as vitamins that the meat does and is overall not as good as meat.

Abnormal Alk. phos, once all the other tests have come back normal, can be caused by a intolerance to fats in foods and this will require a special diet that your Vetinarian can order in for you.

I would have your Vet rule out Heart Conditions because of the fluid around her Heart. A leaking Vavle in her Heart can cause excess fluid around her Heart, Lungs and other Organs and it can also leak into her abdominal area.

Meanwhile I would feed her very very low fat meat until the Vet has given you a diagnosis and then you can go on from there hun.

Take care and all the best.

Trisha x