how to make older poodle comfortable

Question
My dog is pretty sick and has been at the vet's this week. She is home & was better at the beginning of the week. But this afternoon (of course after the vet has closed!) she is feeling worse. She is 16-17 years old & I just want to make her comfortable. She is panting, breathing heaving, coughing some, not resting...she is whimpering some. Any advice, suggestions?  

Answer
If she is whimpering, she may be in some pain.  The only thing I can think of other than your companionship and love is a baby aspirin in case she is in some pain.  I'm not sure what her condition is, so I'm hesitant to even suggest the aspirin, truthfully, but I know if she has joint or muscle pain, it can help.  Just one a day can ease pain some.  As for the coughing and such - does she have allergies?  I have a teacup poodle who does, and I give him some children's benadryl.  A larger dog could probably take one of the pills wrapped in cheese or something.  The thing that worries me is it sounds like it might be her heart that is not getting enough oxygenated blood pumped, causing her to breathe harder.  There are many things it could be and I'm so sorry I couldn't be more help with a direct answer.

Sometimes an elderly dog will relax if it's owner is relaxing beside it, too.

I'll keep you both in my prayers.  If there is a 24 hour vet around and you aren't strapped for funds, you might want to call or visit them..........

Bless you and keep you both,

Kathryn