stenotic nares

Question
We have a 3-month-old shih tzu that has been making snorting and gasping noises and not gaining weight. She was just diagnosed with stenotic nares and COPD as a result. We were told that surgery to widen her nares would take care of this problem. I wonder what you may know about this type of diagnosis and solution.

Also, We have had her for nearly four weeks. We would never want to "return" her and get our money back, but wonder if it is reasonable to ask for some money toward the surgery.

Answer
You can check the internet for stenotic nares in shih tzu and will find information related much different than that to other breeds.  Stenotic nares in shih tzu is common and is usually something that a breeder will not even cover in the guarantee of the contract (umbilical hernia is another)usually the shih tzu will grow out of some of this by the time it is 5 or 6 months old an through the teething stages.  Your puppy is having a tough time right now due swelling and teething issues.  If your puppy on the other hand has a cleft pallet that is another issue that should be addressed immediately.  But if you and the breeder feel the puppy was doing fine, gaining weight, breathing well, active, etc.. and then just recently began having difficulty (teething time).. I would give the puppy some time and see if it improved on its own before scheduling undue surgery.  But if the puppy is steadily  declining, not eating at all, and has been for some time, lacks vigor, poor health, poor gum color, not playing etc.. then do what is best and have the surgery by all means .  As for getting money from the breeder ... It never hurts to ask.  Hope this helps