10 year-old Beautiful Beagle

Question
Hi Patti, my ten yearold Beagle has been coughing/hacking, not contionously for a long amout of time, but rather like three coughs then hes done. It almost sounds like an old man's cough. I'm very concerned, any ideas?

Answer

Hi Valerie,

Not even a veterinarian can diagnose your dog over the Internet. All I can do is tell you what it may be, and I could be wrong. I think your dog deserves better than guesswork.

I can tell you that a cough can be a symptom of congestive heart disease, it can be a reaction to cigarette smoke (which can lead to heart or lung disease in dogs, just as it can in humans), nasal irritation due to chemicals in perfumes, new bedding, carpeting, etc., it can be a symptom of internal parasites including heartworms, or a symptom of tooth or mouth infections.

Treatment will depend on what the actual condition is.

If you are having trouble afford veterinary care, first talk to your regular vet. Ask your veterinarian if he or she will let you work out a payment plan. Many veterinarians are willing to work out a weekly or monthly payment plan so that you do not have to pay the entire cost of veterinary care up front. Another option is to contact your local shelter or Humane Society. Some shelters operate or know of local subsidized veterinary clinics or veterinary assistance programs. If you happen to live within driving distance to veterinary school, check with them to see if they offer discount services to the public. There are two special credit cards to apply for which help with medical bills (including veterinary bills) read about them here:

http://www.carecredit.com
http://www.healthcard.citicards.com

I hope this helps!
Best of luck,

Patti