chihuahua breathing problem

Question
my 1 yr old pregnant chihuahua is kind of wheezy and at times actually gasps for air, she is also not as energetic as usual...she is eating and drinking normally...I am currently on a lay-off from work and can not afford a vet...some good advice please

Answer
Hi Toni,

If you determine the wheezing isn't an emergency, soothe your dog during the attack. Wheezing is due to tissue inflammation, you can turn on a humidifier or place your dog in a warm steamy bathroom. Steam will help open air passageways and make breathing easier.

Are you sure your dog isn't reverse sneezing, and not wheezing? Reverse sneezing actually has nothing to do with sneezing, but is a spasm caused by an irritation of the soft palate. Small dogs in particular can exhibit this behavior and certain breeds (including the Chihuahua) may be predisposed to it. It has sent many a distraught owner to the vet in panic.
During the spasm, the dog will usually turn her elbows outward and extend her neck while gasping inwards with distinctive loud snorting, honking and gasping sounds. Gently massaging the throat area or pinching the dog's nostrils shut so she must breath through her mouth can help shorten the episode. Sometimes taking the dog outside in the fresh air stops the spasm. Reverse sneezing appears a lot worse than it is, generally posing no health threats whatsoever. Some animals can have this condition for their entire lives, or it may develop as the dog ages.

There are a variety of upper airway conditions that can result in wheezing. Dogs can get viral infections, such as colds or even pneumonia, which irritate the airways and cause mucus to accumulate. This makes it difficult for air to get through.
Allergies are a common cause of wheezing. With every breath, your dog inhales pollen, dust, or other particles that can potentially irritate the airways and cause allergic reactions. In addition, some dogs are allergic to insect stings or the chemicals used in household cleaners. Even chemicals in new carpets may trigger wheezing in some pets. It's also possible that your dog has Asthma.

So you see, there are too many potential causes for the wheezing to guess at. Since treatments vary depending on the condition, your dog needs to be examined by your vet.

You can discuss your financial situation with your vet. Many times a payment schedule can be worked out. You can contact your local Humane Association or animal shelter. Many tomes they know of reduced cost animal clinics in their area.
There's a special credit card called CareCredit you can apply for that can be used for veterinary bills, read about it here:
http://www.carecredit.com/

These organizations also help in paying vet bills for those in financial need. There is an application process, so they're not for emergencies:

http://www.imom.org/
http://thepetfund.com/
http://www.aahahelpingpets.org/root/
http://www.angels4animals.org/

You need to consider the unborn puppies, and give your dog the care she needs.

Best of luck,
Patti