old lab

Question
hi pattie,
i have a yellow lab,male,on the heavy side and he is 12 yrs. old. lately he has been having trouble breathing. he is fine when is just laying around, but once he gets up and moving he gasps for air. i see you have been around elderly pets and i was wondering if any of your pets had this problem. another thing about my dog, he can not run at all because of his weight and age.
thank you,doug

Answer
Hi Doug,

Difficulty breathing is a serious symptom. You should not try to self diagnose, since the problem can be several things.

Labrador retrievers are prone to laryngeal paralysis, which can lead to significant changes in their breathing rates or breathing patterns. Heart disease is another condition which causes heavy breathing. Some hormonal diseases can cause increases in respiratory rates, most notably hyperadrenocorticism (Cushing's disease). Anemia can lead to increases in respiratory rate, this most commonly associated with Hemangiosarcoma Tumors in dogs of this age range.

There are lots of other diseases which have increased breathing as a symptom, and early treatment means the best hope for recovery in all of them.

There are certainly medications available to help your dog.

The best thing for your dog would be if you made an immediate appointment with your veterinarian.

I hope I've been a help.
Best of luck,

Patti