Hi....my first chi had this problem. Of course, back then, they didn't have the knowledge or the treatment options they have now. We did treat with some meds such as fluid pills, he was on a brochidialtor to help with breathing, ect. He did eventually go into congestive heart failure, but he was getting up there in age. He was 16 when he passed. His last few years were not healthy ones, as he had a stroke and it left him crippled in his front legs, but he never was in any pain. The worst he really had to deal with was breathing problems brought on by fluid around the lungs as well as his heart problems..Un fortunately, heart issues are common in chis.....I am surprised I haven't seen more than I have. Marsha
Do not tell God how big your storm is. Tell the storm how big your God is. ----- Original Message ----- From: kerrylusignan To: [email protected] Sent: Wednesday, December 12, 2007 10:08 AM Subject: [Chihuahuas] Introduction and question about personal experiences w/MVD in Chihuahuas Hi, My name is Kerry and I am new to this group. I am a long time lover of Chihuahuas, and have two sweeties, Agatha & Grendel (I will post their pictures). In addition to wanting to join a community of fellow Chihuahua lovers I am hoping to get some support or personal stories from anyone who has dealt with MVD (Mitral Valve Disease) in their Chihuahua. I have already done a fair amount of research and am working with an excellent cardiologist, I think I am looking more for how has it gone for you and your dog? As you may already know, their is an abundance of information on the web regarding Cavalier Spaniels, but I have not found much on Chihuahuas. I know in Cavalier's the disease progresses more rapidly and severely, which is why I want to hear about Chi's and hopefully how it is different. My girl, Agatha is 8 yo. She was diagnosed with mild MVD 2 years ago and up till now has just been monitored with an annual echocardiagram. At her most recent echo, last week, the cardiologist said she is now "mild-moderate" and wants to start her on Vasotec which she said can slow down the progression. She said that while the progression can vary, most likely she will be around for another 4 maybe 5 years (although it could be longer, or it could be shorter). I know 4 years may still sound like plenty, but I was just heart broken. She truly is the love of my life and I find myself fearing and dreading the worst. As of now she is perky and shows really no symptoms. She walks 1.2 miles like 4x a week with me (except in winter). Have any of you had a dog who has lived longer with this? Have you had success with the medications? I know there is a new one out (Vetmedin)) which is supposed to be good once they progress into Congestive Heart Failure. For now she is on a vet designed home cooked diet, and supplements of Q10, Carnitine, Antioxidants, and fish oil. Are there any other supplements or alternative therapies (like acupuncture) that any of you have tried? Any support or feedback would be most helpful. I know I should live in the moment and be grateful she is so well, I also know that she could in theory be fine for 5 years, but reading about the progression of it in Cavaliers really scared me. Thanks, Kerry
