Dilated Cardiomyopathy-The Silent Killer In Dogs

Bonnie Ramsey 4 years ago

Lilymag,

I can certainly relate to your pain. I had a pekignese/wiener mix that was 16 when he died last summer of CHF. When diagnosed by the first vet, he wanted to put him to sleep right away. Since he wasn't suffering at all at that point, I just couldn't do it without a second opinion. I am so glad I did! He lived another year after the first vet found the CHF by treatment with medications as well as removal of the fluids by the vet. Grant it, the treatments, meds and vet bills were expensive but we never had to think about doing it. We told him to do whatever was necessary to give us as much time as possible with him without suffering on his part.

As hard as it was to make the decision that we knew all along would face us, we were able to feel confident that when it came to that point, we knew we had done all that we could for him. I will always miss him (Pete) but I know that he is no longer suffering and I sleep better knowing that we did all that we could but were able to let go when that time arrived. He had a small funeral, complete with a hand made casket and marble headstone. I wrote a hub about it called "He wasn't our pet, he was our son". And that is exactly what he was to us! I feel for you with your loss but understand that he did not suffer and had a wonderful, happy life with a family that loved him. That is the most important thing!

Bonnie

Momoosette 4 years ago

Wow! We have a red dobe harley. He's been on Nutro Large breed lamb and rice Natural Choice. It's suddenly been taken off market pet stores saying it's being "repackaged. They put us on Nutro adult lamb and rice. Harley has gas, is vomiting, and just not right. taking him to the vet. He's 5 years old and we LOVE him. Something is wrong. Can anyone give me advice on a good dog food, all natlural?

MartiniMan 3 years ago

Sorry for your loss, you have a good hub here, keep his memory alive that shows how much you loved him.

mary 3 years ago

my dog passed away suddenly last week. She was fine and then the next morning she was dying. We woke up and before we could rush her to the Animal ER (driving her ther) she passed away. I know your pain and it is so shocking that you feel horrible. I hope you and your family the very best and I want to personal thank you for creating this site.

AV 3 years ago

One of my my beloved dogs was diagnosed today with DCM. He's mix Cane Corso. Big fellow with a big heart. I fear the day he will not be with me anymore. And I'm shocked to read that Dobermans are more prone to this killier disease. My other dog is a Doberman. It's unbearable to think I might lose both dogs for the same disease.

I'm really sorry for your loss, and thanks for sharing your story. My dobie looks just like your Harley.

compu-smart 3 years ago

Hi Lilymag,

Harley looks absolutely adorable!!

I know what its like to lose our beloved pets,and i too offer you my deepest sympathy and I know and hope this hub can educate others!!

Julie 3 years ago

I came to your site because 2 hours ago I lost my 3 year old dobie girl Sadie to sudden death dilated cardio. I am having a very difficult time. She was fine and running around playing and the next thing I knew she collapsed. I feel like a failure. She deserved so much better than I could have gave her. I loved her so much. I am so sorry for you loss. God Speed Harley and Sadie.

Bridgette 3 years ago

We lost our 6 year old Husky 4 days ago to DCM. He died in his sleep. Our entire family is distraught, including our other pets. There were no warning signs so we're trying to covercome the shock of his untimely passing. Let there be solice that all of our pets were in good, loving homes, and passed peacefully with family close by.

byee 3 years ago

Thanks for the info! Sorry for your loss, but glad you've got a new puppy to keep you on your toes! We had a scare last night when our puppy pug got an allergic reaction to her annual vaccine shots. Her face was swollen and had trouble breathing. We were able to rush her to the 24 hr. animal hospital and they kept her overnight. She's fine now, but I had never seen my husband cry before this. I want all our dogs to live long, healthy lives!

Carolyn 3 years ago

We just found out yesterday that our 2 year old chocolate lab has an enlarged heart. Is there any hope for animals with this diagnosis? We have an appointment at a large vet school here in NC on the 28th. Does anyone have any advice to ask the doctors there?

emma jayne 3 years ago

i have found out tonight that my 8 year old english bulldog cross bullmastiff has DCM and that if he lives for 18 months i would of done really well, i am absolutely devistated and have cried most of the evening. im glad i found this site with other people who will understand how i am feeling, as i can see that you have all experienced the same thing. i have read some sites that sugges that there are some herbal remedies that may help, hawthorne berry, flower & leaf, motherwort, cactus grandiflorus, cayenne pepper and ginger & red clover. has anyone tried or heard if these do help? im so upset, he doesnt act like a dog, and every time he has looked at me tonight with his enormous brown eyes, i start crying again. the vets told me last night that he had fluid on his lungs and they would investigate today, but a course of tablets would clear it up, so you can imagine my shock when i was told tonight when i picked him up that he had this awful disease and his life expectancy wasnt great, i am sorry to write an essay, but as i mentioned, although i dont know any of you, i know that you understand what this feels like

emma jayne 3 years ago

hi lilymag

i think what makes it worse at the moment is that he doesnt look ill or behave any differently, he's still a nutter lol, my heart jumps a beat every time he has a mad moment cos im petrified his heart is going to give up. i think my worst fear is because i am at work during the week, the reality of it is, i will probably not be here when he does go and it makes me so upset to think that he will be on his own cos i dont want hm to suffer or be in pain when it does happen as im not sure if it like the equivalent of a heart attack. oh and with the food situation, i have been cooking his meals, a combination of pasta, rice, chicken, tripe, tuna, carrots and apples, although not all in the same meal lol im sorry to bombard you with long essays, but you have helped me tremendously, and i have found what you and others on your site have said more informative and relative than the vet.

vicky 3 years ago

i think my dog, a mini schnauzer is suffering from the same condition too, but i really dont know what to do. she refuse to eat anything we fed her for 3 days already, even her favourite foods, and needless to say her medicine. do u know anything i can give her to make her start eating again?

Darl 3 years ago

I my Max died last Saturday. We were on our walk - had stopped to talk with neighbors and kids. Max was being his usual self trying to play with a neighbors new puppy and trying to meet a new dog. I was restraining him when stopped pulling got very quite. After finishing my chat with my neighbors I decided to continue our walk when Max collasped. It was horrible - it was over in minutes. I kept thinking if I had only not taken him for a walk I would have a few more hugs and kisses.

Karen DeLaria 3 years ago

Hi, so sorry about Harley. My daughter's 8yo dobie, Greta, has just been diagnosed with DCM. We are all devastated as we helped raise her from 8weeks. However, she is on meds, has always eaten Natural Balance Lg Breed lamb and rice, and the cardiologist and regular vet feel that she'll be able to continue for a while. I know we shall all miss her, especially my grandsons - 5 and 18months - and my dalmatian with whom she plays. Will try your recipes. I laughed when I saw the bone meal as both Greta and Olivia found my 10lb bag of bone meal for my garden and had a grand time and a good feast! There are sites on the web for natural foods for dogs and in some cities, such as San Diego (where we are), there are holistic vets. Good luck to all. Karen DeLaria

Elaine 3 years ago

Hi there, have just read the sad story on Harley & other dogs on this site, i'm so sorry for all your losses. I have always been a Rottweiler owner who thankfully is not on the "At risk" list, although it doesnt mean they cannot get it.But my friends who live oposite me have a beautiful boxer bitch of 5 years old named Bonnie, she has just be diagnosed with this awful disease, her first & ONLY symptoms were that she collapsed 4 times over the weekend. Since that happened only 2 weeks ago she has had the 24hr heart monitor with very good positive results, & is responding well to medication so far.I have recently come to have extreme faith in alternative medicine,which one of my rotty's is having after my vets scratched their heads & didnt know what was wrong or where to start.My rotty had acupuncture & Chiro & after just one treatment he was like a new dog with a new lease of life, he has to have one more treatment to make the recovery permenant, but i cant believe the difference in him. Both my rotty's are on Royal Canin & have grown up on it, they have never had any problems that have related to diet,infact apart from this 6 month old pup having Chiro for an A-Symetrical pelvis, he has no other problems, & my 3 yr old male has never had a problem so far in his life apart from an ear infection. Royal Canin is the ONLY dried food they will eat, they have this combined with fresh meat,either mince beef or whatever steak is on offer on the time, also chicken breasts, & twice a week they have a big tin of salmon or tuna in with their dinner,everyone comments on their coats which are so glossy & shiney,but i know this way they are getting all the fish oils & fatty acids that they need.They also have raw egg 3 times a week & believe it or not it is not expensive to feed them this way. I live in australia & the total combined Royal Canin, fresh meat, fish & eggs works out to roughly $35 to $40 (aus) per week for BOTH dogs, my 3 yr old is a healthy 60.2k & my 6 month old is 36.4k

Reading comments from above about Royal Canin, i totally agree & highly recommend it, i have researched all these dried foods, Royal Canin, Eukanuba,Science, Supercoat, Pedigree natural, etc etc & NONE of them have all the ingredients & % of them that Royal Canin do. RC is also coated in chicken to make it more appealing to dogs, it actually smells really nice compared to all the others.I know my dogs are getting the very best with it, after reading your site & comments today i am now going to persuade my friends with the boxer to switch to Royal Canin for Bonnie,& whereas they may not believe all the good points i tell them about it, i'm sure after showing them your site & reading it for themselves,will change their minds.

Bless you all & all of your lost loved one's & also the new one's in your lives.

Elaine Australia

Alli, Hayling Island, UK 3 years ago

I just wanted to express my extreme sadness for you all. I lost my 9 year old weimaraner last week. One minute she was fine and went to sleep. She never woke up. As a precaution I have just had my 7 year old weimaraner xrayed and she also has an enlarged heart - suspected DCM. I can't believe I might lose both my babies at all, let alone possibly close together. I don't know how you all cope but it is some comfort knowing I am not the only one. I hope all our babies are happy in heaven.

Kellie Australia 3 years ago

I too have found out that my baby girl one and a half year old rottie has DCM. I am still crying as I type. Am interested in the best food for her available in Australia. Anyone know?

notorious_HAI 2 years ago

Lilymag, gorgeous (gigantic) dog, sad story :( but thanks for creating awareness.

Lynne 2 years ago

We lost our Teddy 2 days ago to DCM. He had been diagnosed almost 4 years ago and had been given about 6 months to live. So I feel blessed that we had him as long as we did. He was on a group of meds (digoxin, enalapril, diltiazem, and mexelitine for abnormal heart rhythm). His death was sudden. He was outside running around and he suddenly dropped, let out a horrible moan, and was dead within a minute. At least I could be with him when he died.

Wonderbaum 2 years ago

Hi Lilymag. What a well written article. Thank you.

Please come by an comment on my hubpage on pet health at:

http://hubpages.com/hub/Pet-Health-Protection

I would really like to hear your opinion.

Thanks,

W

Tina C. 2 years ago

Dear Lilymag, I have a 10 year old Red Dobe that looks like he could have been Harley's twin brother. Unfortunately, our Kuma was just diagnosed with advanced DCM very suddenly. Now that i look back on it, he had all the symptoms leading up to last week when he had trouble breathing and collapsed. We took him to the ER and they have him on a diuretic and an ACE inhibitor and give him six months to live. We love him so much and he has always been an extremely healthy, active dog so we are concerned about his quality of life. They said no exercise and for a 90 lb Doberman who used to run miles with my husband this is difficult. Thanks for sharing your story with me. It helps to know others have been through the same thing.

emma jayne 2 years ago

i first found your site 8 mths ago,in Jan when i had just found out that my beloved Beau was diagnosed with DCM. In march he was attacked by a neighbours dog and was lucky to come out with just a bad laceration to his ear, the vet told me that he might not survive the anaesetic cos of his condition and they sent him to a nearby medivet as they had more staff to watch over the procedure incase anything happened, against all odds that the vet warned me about, he pulled through it ok. i had to take him to the vet tonight for his 3 mth checkup before thay would prescribe me with any more tabs and he has found that all of the lymph glands are promenant and the diagnosis now is leukaemia. i now have 3 options. 1. doing nothing and the prognosis is 6 - 8 weeks. 2. giving him steroids and the prognosis is 2 - 4 mths. 3. giving him continuous chemo and the prognosis is 9 - 12 mths. ive decided not to go with the chemo, he was given 18 mths in jan, and if the chemo is going to extend him for 9 - 12 mths, i dont want him to be sick from the treatment until the end, i would be doing it for selfish reasons if i decided to go with that. at the same time, i dont know a lot about leukaemia so i dont know if he is suffering. i guess the problem is, and anyone and everyone who has visited or will visit this site will understand, the first couple of days after receiving any news like DCM, or leukaemia like me tonight, your mind is racing with the information and trying to take it all in is hard, especially knowing what to do for the best.

stacey 2 years ago

can dogs get kennel cough. if a member of the family smokes about 4 cigarettes daily outside.

Lynsey Moffatt 2 years ago

I have a 6 year old Cocker Spaniel, Monty and he was diagnosed with DCM in May thi year. He seems to be deteriorating rapidly but is not suffering in any way, I couldnt bear that. He has to have another x-ray tomorrow to see if the fluid is still on his lungs or whether his heart is more enlarged.

Ray 2 years ago

Your Harley was such a handsome guy! I know how you feel! We lost our Daisy Harlequin Great Dane) November 15th (on my birthday). She was only 3 1/2 years old. We had her spayed on November 3rd. When I went to pick her up she creased from an internal bleed. They immediately took her back into surgery. We were able to bring her back home on the 4th. We took her back every few days for bloodwork and EKG's. One and one half weeks out she was doing wonderful on Nov. 13th. On Sunday Nov 15th, we had our dog setter come over to stay with her and our other pups so we could go out for dinner. Daisy was doing great, being her sweet silly self, had a few animal crackers, walked to the front door with my husband to greet our dog setter, fell over and starting thrashing. We all gathered around her, she was gone in an instant. We performed CPR and briefly brought her back, then she was gone again...for good. We are all so grief strictened. We had an ecrospy performed and just found out tonight that she had cardiomyopathy. She too was our baby girl, We have 2 other danes, an english setter and a boston terrier. They are as much our children as our son. He cried, telling me mom I lost my sister. She was the sweetest soul, and so beautiful. She instantly became a mom to our boston when we got him 2 years ago. We never bred her, because we wouldn't be able to bear to part with her puppies. When we lost her we lost part of our hearts. Our lives will never be the same. All the little things you took for granted, your heart aches to see, feel or experience again. She was since a presence in our home, full of love from the moment she wobbled in at 7 weeks old. We first saw her at 6 days old, the second I saw her, she was our Daisy, no other name could be hers. Daisy, our most beautiful gorgeous Daisy Doo...we love you and we miss you...forever. Run frre and happy and one day we will meet you at the Rainbow bridge and go through heavens gates together again forever!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tina C. 2 years ago

Dear Stacey, your dog CANNOT get kennel cough from someone smoking outside.

Ray, I'm so sorry about your Great Dane. I posted a comment four months ago when my beloved Doberman was diagnosed with DCM. Unlike the other dogs on this site, he was ten years old which is a long life for a Dobe. He was on meds for his heart but was still coughing up mucus and unable to breathe and we finally lost him about a week after his diagnosis. It was so sudden. I'm sorry for everyone's loss on this page but it helps to know that others have been through the same experience.

fifthavenuegirl 2 years ago

Hi Lilymag: I have had about 10 boxers. Three have been males that have died from heart failure. So I know this disease how tragic the way it sneaks up on you.

augiedobe 2 years ago

Our year old Doberman is in the vet's hospital even as I write this. They will do an ultrasound on him this afternoon. He was diagnosed with an enlarged heart about two weeks ago, and was put on a vaso dilator. He responded to that very quickly, then on the day after Christmas, he was having trouble breathing. Long story short, we will find out today if he can come back home and we can enjoy this big, goofy, very loving and gentle. We have educated a ton of people who thought Dobermans were aggressive and mean. He has never showed ANY signs like that in his short years.

Thank you for this hub. I need to know that there are folks out there to share our grief with. Augie is on magnificent Dobe, and we will do the best thing for him AND us when the time comes, which may be today or tomorrow.

Is it OK if I post more of our Journey?? If so, I will keep everyone posted

augiedobe 2 years ago

somewhat good news about Augie. He is on a medication that is great for certain types of DCM. Our Vet has used it successfully. anyway, he's home and happy, and very tired from his 3 day ordeal at the Vets. More later. Oh, btw, Augie is 6 years old. My "6" key is sticking a lot.

Augiedobe

Tina C 2 years ago

Dear augiedobie,

I'm so sorry to hear about your guy. I had two earlier postings about our ten year old Dobe, Kuma, and it sounds like you are going through the same thing. Whatever happens, don't feel guilty or blame yourself. That was my problem. Often those who care most about their pets feel the most responsible for their pet's illness. Kuma passed away peacefully on August 1st, and I still feel very sad at times, but know he is in a better place. Good luck with Augie. And Lilymag, thanks again for this site. :)

Dawn F 2 years ago

i have an 11 year old weim. He was diagnosed with diabetes about a year ago, and 6 months ago DCM. He is on Vetmedin, lasix, enalapril, spirinolactone, and Sotelol. Along with some pain inflammation meds for hips and a dose of insulin after breakfast and dinner. He seems to be doing well. We had a check up yesterday, ECG looked great, only a few arythmias, but his radiographs of his heart show it's gotten bigger and has pushed his trachea a bit off it's normal path. He has a slight cough from the trachea being pushed against on inhalation.

I cry all the time, he's my first dog (MY dog). He is an awesome boy! I tell him as often as I can just how much i love him. I am greatful for a hub like this to read other experiences. It definately does make you feel less alone. I have bonuses how long my lil boy will last but I know he's had a great life with me.

Thanks for giving us a place to share our stories.

Maria F 2 years ago

I am comforted by reading about others with weimaraners that have this most horrible disease... My Jonas, a beautiful 10 year old weim, was diagnosed 6 months ago with DCM... I was so "sucker punched" by this diagnosis, I can't describe it... we have had 6 moths on this terrible roller coaster... heart enlarged, heart getting smaller... chf, no chf, now this weekend atrial fibrillation; we rushed him to hospital with this rapid heart... gave him some new meds... he is home now... but only fair. my heart is broken in a million pieces... I wish when the awful time comes he would close his eyes and go to sleep... I could go on like this forever and I will as long as he is not in pain. MY heart hurts for all of us... the critical care vet this weekend said when dogs are first diagnosed, owners often say, "better than cancer" and she said, no dcm is so much worse... so hard for the owners because of the frantic worry and the unpredictability of the disease... this is the first place I have found weim owners... they never mention them in the articles about the disease... I am sorry for all of us.. we suffer so for them and with them and after they are gone.

choochi's dad 2 years ago

Hello all... I stay up late now reading all that I can since my sweet little shih tzu, Choochi got sick. It's been about a month or so. The vet said she has mild CHF & DCM. We were beside ourselves, since we just lost another shih tzu, 6 months ago in a tragic accident. You're never ready for bad news, but frankly this is too much to bear! The vet put her on Vetmedin & furosemide. 1 week later we took her to a cardiologist. She wasn't convinced that it was CHF, and labeled it Endocardiosis. I am very down on conventional meds, as I know they only treat the symptom, as the disease progresses...eventually needing more drugs.

Choochi's appetite was decreasing daily. I cooked every possible thing I could...still little to no interest.I then went to a holistic vet, who put her on raw food, and a host of other things. She got very sick...on Saturday when we let her out, we found her laying by the grave of our other dog. She was in the snow, shivering and wouldn't respond to my wife calling her. This was more than heartbreaking! Rushed her to the ER. They thought that there were too many changes too fast...I agree! I know we were grasping at anything to help her. I wiped the slate clean, and took her off of everything.(meds included) Her appetite has greatly improved! I have since discontinued going to that particular holistic vet. But I now believe, I found something beneficial! Everyone should check this out! Look up 5 leaf pet pharmacy on line. Google it. I think you'll be as impressed as I am, at least with what I read. The owner is great,(spoke with her at length several times) and I ordered my kit with great enthusaism, as this is the most promising thing yet. I will keep you all posted. Choochi, is about as sweet and beautiful of an animal I ever had! Everyone that sees her, falls in love with her..her face will melt you! I'm just not ready in the least to bid her farwell...I'd go to the end of the earth for her...she means that much to me!

Let's all get through these tough times together!

All the best!

emma jayne 2 years ago

hi Lilymag

i last wrote on your website 6 months ago at the end of sept when i had just found out that my beloved Beau, not only had DCM but had just been diagnosed with leukaemia. unfortunately, i lost him 6 weeks later in nov, friday 13th to be exact. he deteriated over 24 hrs and the morning of the 13th, clammed his jaws shut and wouldnt take his ridiculously large concotion of medication, even though it was always wrapped in ham. it was unheard of him to refuse ham, you couldnt say the "H" word in my house without him running to the kitchen to wait for it lol. my brother came to the vets with me, we had to carry him to the car as he flat out refused to walk, and carrying an 8 stone dog that is not cooperating is not easy. i dont think i could of gone on my own so to my brother i am etenally grateful, i knew from the look on the vets face what he was going to say and it broke my heart. after Beau was put to sleep, i stayed with him for a while, but i didnt want to leave as i didnt want him to be alone. i couldnt talk about him for a long time afterwards without breaking down as he was my beau beau. its only now that i can talk about his quirkness and things he used to do, like waking me up evey night with his snoring lol its funny how the things that drove you nuts, you now miss. the only piece of advise that i can give anyone that has taken the time to read this is, take lots of photos while you have the chance, im fortunate that i had a professional photo done of me, Beau and my other dog Kea years ago as a xmas present, which takes pride of place in my lounge. i sometimes remember that last day at the vets and it still makes me cry, but i can look at that photo and it reminds me of how he was before he was sick and i forget that awful day and remember the funny ones.

my heart goes out to everyone that has a loved family member ( cos they arent just dogs or pets) that has this condition. xx

Maria F 2 years ago

My beloved Weimaraner Jonas lost his battle with DCM a week and half ago... I am devastated and heartbroken and cry for him till I can't cry anymore. I miss him so much. He had a good run of it after the devastating diagnosis in July of 2009. I know I was lucky to have him for 6 more months. My heart goes out to anyone who has to deal with this illness in their much loved pet... it is worse than cancer... just love them and smell them and keep them close... you can never be prepared for the emptiness after they are gone... I am so sorry, if you are here and reading this you are suffering too.

Sally K 2 years ago

Hi, as i'm writing this my tears are not stopping. My dog rocky who is 6 years old maltese.... was dx w/ dcm. Sunday night he started to cough really bad so on monday I took him to the vet that I work for.... took xrays, ekg, ultrasound...as a conclusion his heart got big =*( my vet only gave him 2 med... one is to bring fever down and vetmedin. Rocky stopped coughing but he's panting and I'm really worried. He looks very uncomfortable... What am i suppose to do??? Is this normal for dogs with DCM? I really don't want him to suffer. I'm so lost right now... I don't know who to turn to.

MAX'S MOM 2 years ago

My 6 year old Max Red Dobe died from DCM. 120 lb slim calm, just took a nap in the afternoon, found him dead an hour later. WE NEED TO FIX THIS PROBLEM! I am devistated. I cannot believe this happend. PLEASE FIND A 'CURE'.

Julie 2 years ago

My 7 year old Doberman, Magnum, just died yesterday from DCM. We knew he had it from an episode last July where he collapsed in the back yard and my husband was able to bring him back with CPR. He was on several heart meds and a healthy diet and we were just hoping to have him for several more years. While we had seriously curtailed his activities, we also knew he'd die of boredom and depression if we didn't allow him some exercise so still let him chase the squirrels out of our yard from time to time. Yesterday morning he was in the back yard, out of view behind the garage and I found him after a couple of minutes dead on the snow. I know he went quickly, but regret that I wasn't right there stroking him and telling him I loved him. However, he was loved, pampered and spent every minute of his life with either my husband or myself, so I know he knew how much we loved him.

dcc471 2 years ago

Dear Lilymag,

I'd like to share my story with you. I had a rash of deaths in my family; gram, 2001; gram2, 2002; mom, 2004. My father had passed away over 20 years ago. I have a daughter that is 17 years old. I don't have a husband.

My daughter wanted a dog soo bad. I finally caved in. I got the dog for a couple of reasons: there really isn't anyone for my daughter to hang out with in our neighborhood and I was depressed from all of the deaths in my fam. I figured puppy would cheer me up. We got Bella, a pit bull, from a person who advertised kujiji.com that lived near us. Saw her picture. Fell in love. Went to go "see" her to figure out her personality. She reminded me of the Pit Bull that I had growing up that I dearly loved. She was sooooo sweet. Still is. Love, Love, Love her. She would bring me a present everytime I came home from work. Always greeting me; giving me kisses, wagging her tail, etc. At night she would either sleep in my daughter's bed or in my bed. I wasn't used to sharing my bed. She'd come in at night and make herself comfy and I'd be hanging off of the bed. She weighs 80 pounds! She is only a year and a half! It didn't matter to me. I love her and she is like my own child.

My horrible day came the week of March 2010. I received a letter from the vet saying that she was due for a Kennel cough shot. I wasn't putting her in a kennel, so I figured i'd wait alittle while. She started to cough at night. It was intermittent, so I didn't think anything of it. I though maybe she was getting a cold. I took her to the doctor's on March 10 to figure out what was wrong with her. The vet examined her and said that she was fine. Go home and watch her. If she gets worse we'll give her meds for Kennel Cough. Well, each day for the next week it seemed like she got worse. First, it was the cough that was getting worse. Next, she started to not eat as much. Then, not drink. Finally, she was panting and seem like she was dehydrated. *Little note- Bella was spayed last January. The vet asked me if I wanted a heart test to see if she had any heart problems so that nothing would happen during surgery. I agreed and paid extra for her to have an EKG. The EKG was normal.* So while all of this was going on, I never thought this was a serious problem. So back to the panting-I called my vet and told him what was going on. He said come and pick up the meds. When I arrived, I told them my dog maybe dehydrated, where do I go? by the time I got home, a neighbor had said that Bella didn't look good and I should take her to a hosp. I did, right away. This was March 17. The doctor at the ER said that she had fluid in her lungs. She said it was Kennel cough. I had to leave her there for the night. I was upset b/c I don't like to be away from my puppy. One of the girls said that she would keep an eye out for her and would call me with an update before she left. Seh called me at 2am in the morning to tell me that Bella was sleeping and she was fine. At 4am a doctor called me and said that Bella was having trouble breathing and they need to put her on oxygen. I said fine. They wanted to take an x-ray of her heart. They did the x-rays and it showed that her heart was enlarged. When I got to the hospital the doctor explained to me that she was in CHF and that she has dilated cardiomyopathy. This was seen through the echocardiogram. I am devastated! My baby! My puppy! She is soooooo lovable! Why her? I had just gone through watching my gram and mom die. Now I'd have to do it again with my bubba, I call her. It hasn't even been a month since she has been diagnosed and she has been back to the hospital many times. It's already cost me over $3000. I don't care, because I don't have what it takes to put her down. The doctor said that we could try a variety of meds. to keep her going. It seems like she has a good couple of days and then we have a step back. The doctor's are trying to get her symptoms of CHF under control. She is now able to breathe again since we increased her Vetmedin and Furosemide. However, she stopped eating, so I have to give her another med. for an appetite stimulant. She is also on Enalapril and Pepcid A/C. She hates all of the meds.!!! For the last couple of days she has been walking around the house with a sad face. She looks like one of those poorly starved Pit Bulls who are abused b/c she's still not eating. I struggle everyday with the notion of do I put her down or do I keep trying to give her a normal life? She has been such a wonderful dog through this whole thing. She has not once urinated on my floor b/c she couldn't hold it and she will just go and lay down and sleep and not bother anyone.

I agree with you that this is an evil, silent, disease. Not in a million years did I think she would have this, even after I had all of those tests done and she is soooo young! I thought that EKG would've picked up something back then. I thought that that was the end all be all of heart tests. NOT!!! I am sorry for the long ramble. But I found comfort in the stories other people shared and yours especially. You gave me good suggestions to try for her food and I will get on that for tomorrow. I hope that my dog can survive awhile with a better quality of life than what we are going through now. Thank you for listening.

dcc471 2 years ago

Went to drs. today. The doctor pretty much said there is nothing more they can do. She increased the Pimobendan. She said that this may cause Bella to develop an arrythmia and she may die in her sleep. She hasn't been eating because of the disease, so she may starve to death. Great options when a loved and cherished pet is diagnosed with this disease.

Beverly Skepnek 2 years ago

My Duke was just diagnosed with DCM two days ago. My husband and I and heart sick. We are going to do anything and everything to keep him here happy and healthy. I am mad, why cant this be cured? The thought of not having our Booky man Duke is unbearable.

Sandra K 2 years ago

I just lost my Phalene (floppy-eared Papillon), Jesse James, last April. He was first diagnosed with an enlarged heart, then a murmur. His heart kept growing & the vet suspected he also had a leaking mitral valve.

I started home cooking for him when he lost his appetite which was highly unusual for him. He was a pig! Once I did some research on leaky mitral valves, I added some CoQ10 to his diet which gave him so much more energy. I also included L-Cartinine which helped a lot too.

The vet said they usually only live 3-9 months after diagnosis. We took it a month at a time & we got another

2 1/2 years out of Jesse James. He was a fighter & as long as he was willing, so were we.

He died the day after Easter. He developed pulmonary edema real bad to where he looked like a basset hound more then a Papillon. We knew it was time & he fought a good fight & that the fight was over. He was 13 when he passed.

Brett Harrison 2 years ago

We have had our Tyson for eight years happily. He is a Doberman Pincher. Last night, we came home to him breathing heavily and his heart beats were through the roof. My mother is a dog nutritionist and we rushed him to the vet today. All chances of them stabilizing him are looking slim as they tried every medicine they could and nothing is working. It is tough being 18 and having this happen. My Red dobe died at six from cardiomyopathy. We always fed them raw meat ground with our commercial meat grinder and gave them a plethora of nutrients and supplements that most people can't even say. We thought he was stung by a bee, so we gave him benadryl and now he is trying to be stabilized. Today is a sad day, but this is what everybody needs to understand about big breeds.

Charlene Coffey 2 years ago

We lost our 3 year old Boxer-mix March 3, 2010, from cardiomyopathy and we miss Maggie Mae terribly. She was a stray or a dumped dog a friend gave us, and the vet estimated her age at about two when we took her. It was the best thing we ever did. What an wonderful year we had with her. She turned out to be our best friend and one terrific, loving girl, a joy not only to us but to our grandkids who adored her. One night in early February, we noticed she was breathing hard so we took her to the vet the next day. He said she was filling up with fluid and he suspected it was her heart. Gave her 3 meds but nothing helped. Went back and back to the vet with no improvement or confirmed diagnois. This went on all through most of Feb, with Maggie getting worse each day, and me either calling the vet for advice or taking her back to him every week. Then the last week of Feb, we switched vets. The new vet took one look at her and diagnosed her with cardiomyopathy, very common to Boxers. After removing nearly 5 lbs of fluid from her, performing other tests, and finally an ultrasound, her diagnosis of cardiomyopathy was confirmed. Ultrasound showed the left side of her heart was hardly working. Vet said if she were a human, she'd be on a heart transplant list. Vet told us a heart med would sustain her for maybe six months, but her condition was terminal. Maggie was suffering so much with trying to breath; she couldn't eat and would choke when she drank water because of her labored breathing. After a week of new meds with no improvement, and discussing it with our vet, we made that horrible decision. Mag loved going for rides, and I'll always feel like a traitor that last day taking her to the vet knowing she wouldn't be coming home with us. Losing a pet is heartbreakikng, but we know, and Maggie knew, just how much we loved her. Her short time with us was a joy to her and to us, and I'd sure like to believe that God reserved a special place in heaven for animals, so that we could all be reunited with our beloved pets someday.

dcc471 2 years ago

I wrote on here about a month and a half ago. My little baby Bella was diagnosed with DCM on March 17, 2010. She passed away on April 30, 2010. I miss her terribly.My heart aches everyday. She was a Pit Bull and was only a year and a half. She was my baby.

From the time that she was diagnosed I did everything that I possible could for her. We were at the ER multiple times to get her out of CHF (Congestive Heart Failure). I gave her meds. She was rapidly losing weight. I gave her a plethora of food for her to eat to no avail.

This disease in dogs absolutely SUCKS! It is such an unfair disease with them because it is terminal with no cure.

Erin  2 years ago

Hello lily,

i came accross your story this morning while i was looking for information on DCM, my 3 year old Fawn Doberman Mo Cuishle was just diagnosed last week, they were able to stablize him for now but they say it wont be long. we are having a really hard time with it, just like harley he loves to sleep in bed with us he lays down in between us under the blankets and with his head on the pillow, he is a 100 lb lap dog and big baby and we love him. do to the fact that we do not have kids he is our kid. its going to be very diffucualt once he does go. but i wanted to say thank you by reading your story i have learnd a little bit more about the condition and hopfully we can make him a miracle :)

Barry The Blue 22 months ago

We lost our beloved dog of 12.5 years yesterday to DCM.

We are still in shock as he wasnt the normal candidate for this silent killer of a disease.

We got Barry when he was 6 weeks old and although he was very naughty as a pup and juvenile he grew up to be the most loving trusting dog.

He loved his dad more than anything in the world and followed him around day and night, doesn't matter that I fed, trained, walked him as soon as his dad came home nobody else existed.

You could take food out of his mouth and he would not bat an eyelid and he loved kids, loved to run with them and they loved him very much.

We are so devestated to have lost him yesterday especially his dad who he loved so much.

We love you and miss you very much Barry, there is a hole left in our hearts now....

Palak ahuja 20 months ago

i am going thru this site becoz i lost my dog yest.he was a toy pom.Toffee was his name,he was detected with a enlarged heart 3 weeks back,put on medication by the vet.my dog lives with my parents in a different city.i was with him since last 3 weeks and trying to get him treated.only after the vet told me,he is getting better i decided to return to my city just one day before.i am pregnant and he knew if i went infront of his eyes,how much pain i will be in.he took his last breath just a day after i left.i still cant believe it he has gone leaving me and my family.he just gave loads of happiness to us,and never bothered us for anything,not even for his death.wishing to god he comes bk in the form of my kid.can this happen

Hogan's Dad 20 months ago

My beautiful 7 year old Boxer who was healthy as a horse collapsed and dropped dead on my deck a week ago. For some reason I have know idea how I did not know of Boxer Cardiomyopathy which seems rampant in the breed.I feel like I'm dying inside and don't know how I am going to survive without him.

He was the most beautiful dog, he was my soul mate, he was so gentle, regal and such a good loving dog.

I'm just a wreck. I had just moved from Pennsylvania to Cape Cod a week earlier. I don't know how to move onto my new journey without my best friend Hogan

Hogan's Dad 20 months ago

My beautiful 7 year old Boxer who was healthy as a horse collapsed and dropped dead on my deck a week ago. For some reason I have know idea how I did not know of Boxer Cardiomyopathy which seems rampant in the breed.I feel like I'm dying inside and don't know how I am going to survive without him.

He was the most beautiful dog, he was my soul mate, he was so gentle, regal and such a good loving dog.

I'm just a wreck. I had just moved from Pennsylvania to Cape Cod a week earlier. I don't know how to move onto my new journey without my best friend Hogan

Tina C. 20 months ago

Dear Hogan's Dad,

I am so sorry about your beauriful Boxer. I lost my 10 year old Doberman a year and two months ago from DCM and I still check this site because he will be in my heart forever. Please don't blame and second guess yourself; there was nothing you could have done diferently and I'm sure Hogan was happy and healthy his entire life. In a way it's better he went quickly. With our guy,he declined slowly and we had to put him down. Way worse. It will get better with time. Sincerely, Tina

dj 19 months ago

We just found out that Luke, our beloved 5 year old English Mastiff has DCM. I'm devastated but kind of knew a 230 lb dog would not have a long life. But still its a nightmare. We rescued Luke 1 1/2 years ago, so he came to us this size. He is not overweight he's just really big and really gentle. He was always kind of lethargic but we (and the vets) thought that was just him. Last week he started coughing and then wheezing I rushed him to the vet where he was diagnosed.

Since he was placed on the two medications last Wednesday he is really feeling better, eating more, playing more and is generally more active. Not allowing Willow, our psyco (much loved) 2 year old Great Dane to get away with stuff, like he hadn't before the meds. The irony is that while he seems so much better, we know it is only for a short time. He is the most wonderful dog I have ever met. I don't think I will handle it very well when he passes. I am crying as I write this. Thanks for your hub.

tina 19 months ago

Hi there, just reading all your posts and i am in tears, my 9 year old cross ( collie, labrador, staffy and dalmation ) last friday was diagnosed with cardiac failure, am not sure if this is the same as what you all talk about here but i amagine so, it started with a cough that gradually got worse at first we thought it was kennel cough but then the vet decided on an x ray thinking he may have something caught in his throat, I cant seem to stop the tears, he has been put on directics since saturday and the vet rang to see how he was but is a bit concerned he isnt drinking enough so has taken him back off for 2 days to see how he goes, said maybe he having a reaction to them, cant seem to think straight this seems to be a huge jumbled mess, all i keep thinking is i am gonna lose my best mate and there is nothing i can do to stop it

Debbye 18 months ago

Thank you everyone for you stories. I too lost my Doberman Rockee 4 days ago. I am not sure if he had DCM or not but he was heathy and he dropped dead suddenly. I feel extremely guilty because I have had him for 3 years before my 3 year old son cam rockee was 6 and I promised him I would not neglect him. Well Rockee was a nervous dog and he didnt like my son and so him and my other dog stayed in the crates that are in the house and have nice beds in the day or when my son was not in the main room of the house. Anyways I have a teenage daughter that caused some yelling the day he died and I was not with him and I love that dog almost as much as my son because he was my baby he we had him since he was 8 weeks old. I do believe now he had dcm...no other explanations. I went balistic when he first died because I feel my heart is ripped out. I know I have to go on for my famiy and other dog. We had Rockee cremated and I brought him home yesterday. I love you Rockee and I will never forget you!!!

pamela Petlowany 18 months ago

yesterday morning my weimaraner "Tucker" who would have been turning two in the morning, died from his DCM. He was the most wonderful dog ever. My best buddy, we read each others minds, he followed me everywhere, cuddled, slept, with/on me always. I wasn't there when he went, I had and early am meeting left for 1.5 hours to come home and find him collapsed dead on my mud room floor. His buddy "slater" bewildered. Me shattered. Tucker was diagnosed last spring. Was put on all the possible meds,had him to a cardiologist regularly. He seemed better then all of a sudden he's gone. No words can explain the pain. Tucker I Love You~Mom

Maria F 18 months ago

To all of you suffering over the loss or pending loss of your beloved dogs, I am so sorry.

Pamela, if you read up in the posts you will see that I Iost my beloved weim, Jonas, 9 months ago from DCM. He too was the love of my life... did all those things, snuggled next to me, slept with me, sweetest guy ever, I called him my best "buddy" too. He was 9 years old diagnosed last summer and I had only 6 months with him. Cardiologist, meds, everything. One night he woke me up, I took him out, we laid back down, him at my head and I woke up an hour later and he was gone. I knew it was coming. But I am still broken hearted, can't get over it, cry every night over him I miss him so much. So sorry for you and your Tucker, poor boy, was only 2 years old... that is SO awful. I am heartbroken for you and for all of us. This is such a horrible disease. I came back on here tonight after months because I was feeling so sad. I am thinking of you and all the others who love their dogs so much.

George 17 months ago

Hi, My 5 years and 7 months, Beautiful Big Boy Dogue De Bordeaux, died 4 days ago on 11th December 2010 at 8.00pm, of undiagnosed DCM with CHF. What a joke, the whole family is gutted, he was loved by so may, he was so very Noble and had the highest respect for his family and friends. He was totally selfless, although he weighed 12 stone he was the most gentle of dogs. My 2 year old niece would hug and kiss him all day long, also she would sneakily feed him and he loved it!!! after she had eaten she would often have food all around her mouth and he would lick it off and she would laugh hysterically! he made an impact on everybody who ever met him. People wanted their picture taken with him he was so beautiful.

Also he was a great guardian, one day whilst out on a walk, he saved me, my father and my other dog from 3 ferocious guard dogs that had been mistakenly let out! He fought them all off, each of them weighing about 9 stone, if he hadn't been there that day, I know I would of had some severe injuries or been killed and my other little dog would definitely of been killed.

I had had his mother, and watched him be born. Watched him open his eyes for the first time. Watched him biting his mothers ears and suckling.

He was the most intelligent and obedient dog, who would never do anything wrong!!!

He died suddenly, on Saturday after showing vague signs somethign wasn't right. He collapsed and died within minutes with me, my brother and my mother by his side, we tried cpr, he seemed to come round but then drifted off peacefully. I loved you so much Diggery and Always will, All our Love, till we meet again my Darling.

George 17 months ago

I am so sorry for everbodies' losses and diagnoses, I can't believe this horrible illness has no cure and is so hard to spot. It seems we all go through the same thing, it is so hard, I am pretty sure our babies don't suffer pain, Diggery seemed not to, as he was a big softy who would always cry if he got hurt, like one time when he got a thorn in his foot (aww).

The vet told me that he will have just gone unconcious, and that is what I believe happened, as he just slipped away in mine and my brothers arms, and the great thing is he suffered no illnes with only mild symptoms prior to his death. He was an absolutely lovely boy, we are all so very proud of him. He loved his baby sister (my niece) and he also loved are two other dogs so very much and gave them so much respect and love. He was a true legend, all my love and respect to all dog owners and all the people on here who have been through so very much. Thank you so much for this site! x x x

George 17 months ago

Sorry I forgot to write the name of my dog, I am still in shock and disbelief. His name was Diggery, we always called him Diggy! he was top dog! always will be missed but never ever forgotten, sleep tight my best buddy!

Diana 16 months ago

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to write about my beautiful 12 year old doberman girl, Leya. Leya collapsed suddenly late one night in August of 2010. She was diabetic (for 2 years) and we thought it was related to that but after checking her glucose we realized it wasn't. I watched her through the night and by morning realized she could not get up or move. We had the vet come to the house. He didn't say anything about DCM, but seemed to think it was a spinal or neurological issue. He said to give her fluids and turn her every hour which we did, but by a few days later she hadn't improved. We took her to a neurologist and he did chest x-rays and discovered her enlarged heart and fluid in her lungs. They put her on oxygen and told us they didn't think she would survive the trip home so that she could be at home for her last hours. We were so shocked and heartbroken. All I could think of was when my daughter's dobie had the same thing, her vet said there was nothing they could do, that even if they removed the fluid it would come back. So that is what I was thinking when we made the decision to let our girl go and stop her suffering. Since then I have read more about this condition and now think I should have tried more treatments with drugs or had the vet remove the fluid. They didn't offer to do anything like that and I didn't know much about the condition. The guilt is just consuming me at this point. I loved my girl more than anything, and I feel like I should have tried harder to save her. The only symptoms she may have had we thought we due to other things. She did kind of gag once in a while and my husband said that was because she was always pulling the stuffing out of her toys and was probably getting some in her throat. She also had some trouble getting up from laying down and again we thought she is 12 and she has arthritis. She also had surgery when she was younger for a torn ACL. So we didn't put the signs together and get her help. She was at the vet for blood work and a check up about 6 months before she collapsed. I have learned a lot more about this disease now and if I ever get another dog, which I'm not sure I will, but IF I did, I will certainly keep watch for this developing throughout their whole life.

I can't change what happened, but the grief is just all consuming still. Even though we made the decision to end her suffering because we loved her so much, it still hurts beyond belief. I feel like she paid the price for my lack of care and knowledge and I can't forgive myself.

Diana 16 months ago

Lilymag

I just want to add that I am so sorry for your loss. Harley was a beautiful boy. I love his pictures. I just love dobies. Thank you for all the information you have provided on DCM and for providing this site and a place for us all to come and be with others who are suffering the same pain we are. My condolences to everyone on this site too for their losses.

Desray 16 months ago

Lily (Nicknamed Silly Lily)

We lost our 7 year old Brown & Tan Dobe yesterday to DCM...She collapsed just 4 weeks ago the vets put her on medication ..... came home yesterday just 20 minutes after mother in law checking on her and she had gone.... just gone !!! Past away in her sleep. I feel cheated and the grief is unbearable. She had the symptoms you all mention above. Very very sad time....

Diana 16 months ago

Desray

I am so sorry to hear about Lily. It is a very very sad time for sure. The saddest of times. It sounds like you did everything you could for her to try and save her. Was she in the hospital long? It almost seems like she was just waiting to be home. I wish I could have had my dobe Leya home when it was time to let her go. It seems like a lot of people on this site have lost their precious dobes due to DCM. It just seems so unbelievable sometimes that there is so little help for them and so many of them seem to get this horrible condition. I know the grief is unbearable for you, we all feel it too.

There is another site at www.pet-loss-matter.com where you can post a tribute to your girl as well as pictures. You can also keep a diary there as you work through the grieving process. It really helps to write about your feelings. I have found it very helpful and the people there, like here, are very supportive. You might want to try it. Some people (including me) even write to our pets there and tell them all the things we didn't get a chance to. It might sound odd, but it really seems to make me feel closer to her when I do that. Sites like that and this one too are so helpful. It's good to have the support and understanding of others who know what we are going through because they have been through it too.

Again, I am so sorry for your loss...

Desray 16 months ago

Diana... thank you so much for your kind words. I think my post is maybe somewhat misleading, sadly my brain isnt working at the moment ! Lily collapsed 4 weeks ago, we took her to the vets and he suspected cardiac gave us medication to see how it went. We took her back to the vets a week before xmas as the medication seemed to be helping her a little, she didnt seem to be coughing as much however her breathing was still "not right". He reduced the medication a little and wanted to see her in the New Year. We had all been home at Christmas all the family around and most of all our Son Jensen, who was Lily's best friend. They have grown up together and were inseperable. We obviously had our concerns all over christmas and new year and cancelled all our trips etc so she wasnt alone for long. My Mother in law lives next door so if we did go out for any time she let her out and checked on her every hour. On the sad fatal day, it was the day everything was back to "normal"...me and my husband were back at work and Jensen was back at school. When we left in the morning she seemed herself, she had still asked for her "short" walk (which was to Mum in laws next door and back). The only thing I would say though was that over the last couple of days she didnt want her food but I took it that because she had been eating the turkey and beef remainders she wasnt having of her own "boring" food. We all went off to work and school not thinking anything untoward. Mother in law checked on her every hour. She went out in the garden and had a walk around at about 2.30 and Mother in law didnt notice anything untoward. My husband arrived home 2 minutes before me at about 2.50 and as I pulled on the drive he came out the house and the look on his face said it all......!!! I ran in the house and she was laid in the hallway (where she would normally lay) !!! I was mortified. How come ?? Why was there no progression ?? All these questions. Anyway we laid her to rest in our garden with our previous black and tan dobe, Jazz !! Our hearts have been shattered and I am struggling to come to terms with it. I may be niave but I knew she was poorly but I just didnt know it was such a short time we had left. I am so upset she was alone when she left !! Luckily children are a lot more resiliant than us adults and what with school and activities Jensen is coping not too bad. I will look on you the websites you mention and hopefully find some comfort. Thank you so much XX

Diana 16 months ago

Desray

I guess my mind isn't working all that clearly either. I realize I left a letter out of the website I mentioned to you. It should be www.pet-loss-matters.com

Thank you for your post and for giving a few more details of Lily's story. When I read some of the stories on here I just wish I had had a better vet for Leya. Because she collapsed at home and couldn't move we tried to arrange for our vet to come to our home and see her as we weren't sure we should move her. There are 3 vets in the office and when we called they said they could send one of them, but he wasn't her normal vet. I am so angry with myself for not making sure my vet saw her. This vet that came never mentioned DCM to us, and you would think that being a dobie and with the sudden collapse that might have at least entered his mind. I didn't know anything about it at the time, even though too late I have learned a lot on this site. I feel so guilty for not insisting they do something. He just seemed to take that attitude that she was 12 years old, and we shouldn't put her through any tests or treatments. He basically told us to prepare ourselves to let her go. I think by the time we got her to the neurologist (at our insistance), it was too late. I really feel like we failed her. It is heartbreaking enough to lose them, but to feel we could have done more just makes it so much worse. This is why I say to you that you really did try to do everything you could for Lily and at least you know that. It seems that dobie's are especially good at not showing signs of being ill. The morning of the day Leya collapsed, she was perfectly normal, eating fine, playing with her toys. And it seems so many on this site also were just playing like always and just collapsed suddenly, without any warning. I know it must be hard because you weren't with her. For me, because we had to make the decision to euthanize Leya, we were with her, but she wasn't home like we hoped. And every minute since she left us, I relive those last moments. Sometimes I think I can't come back from this. The posts on this site have made me realize that no matter how we try or what we do, the end result is just as devasting for us. I see by your post that you had a dobie before Lily. I love dobies so much, and I would love to have another one, but I have to admit I am so afraid to go through this again. I'm not sure we will get another dog at all. So we live with the emptiness and the empty house and it just is so hard to accept that she is gone.

I will be thinking of you and your Lily. I will check the other site too and I hope to see a picture of her there. I'm sure she was a beautiful girl.

If you ever need to chat, just post here or on the other site and I will watch for it.

Take care....

Desray 16 months ago

Thanks again Diana for your post. Your story is so sad too and as you say when you read all the posts there is no easy way. I have and am still really struggling to cope and I have this strange feel of not wanting to be anywhere. Wherever I am, I just cant settle. Our home is so empty and the routine we had has gone.

We did have a dobe previous to Lily. We got Jazz at the age of 7 weeks old....she was gorgeous. Jazz was a total different character to Lily ...she was very independent and extremely head strong. We lost Jazz at the age of 8 (boy did we have some laughs with her). Sadly with Jazz we had to make the decision for her to release her from the pain she was in. This was such a tough decision and it was the breeder who came out and made us see sense that it was the right thing to do. Looking back now I think we probably did hang on to her a few days longer than we should for our own selfish needs. We lost Jazz in April 2004 and I would go and visit the breeder on a regular basis as she was a great comfort to me. Plus she had loads of Dobes for me to fuss. On this one day I went to see her and she had this brown rescue dobe just a year old. She had been passed around for the first year of her life and the breeder just didnt know why she was proving to be such a good girl. I took a very keen interest in this brown dobe (Lily) and the breeder asked if I wanted to take her home for a few days. Obviously I did but I had to think as I had only 3 months before had our first child so had lots to do. We took her home on my birthday for the weekend (1st May 2004) and she never went back.....this was how Lily came to live with us. We feel so blessed to have been so lucky to have found her and I do hope she feels the same way. We gave her a fantastic home and she was spoilt rotten.

I know what you mean about the empty house and missing them so much.....and also whether there will be another Dobe ?! We have had them for 15 years now so being without one is so hard. I too dont know what we will do, whether we will have another. I have to admit if I went to the breeders and she had one available it would more than likely come back with us... !!

Thinking of you.

I will over the next few days hopefully get a photo of Lily posted on the other site.

XXXX

Lisa 16 months ago

I've been coping for just over a week as our wonderful Austrailian shepherd mix was suddenly stricken on Sunday night 1/16/11 and died at 4:44 am on 1/17/11. She became short of breath after walking upstairs to bed that night. I curled up next to her and seemed to calm her. She was up a few times during the night panting and collapsed. We tried CPR but she was gone. I can't begin to tell you how hard this loss has been for me. She was just a month shy of her 7th birthday. Our house and hearts are so empty. She was truely my best buddy. My research, trying to figure things out, led me to this website. Thank you everyone for sharing your stories.

Rose 15 months ago

I am very happy to have found this site. Yet, cried at many of the posts. My beloved 12yr old Ozzy started having problems walking and was constantly chewing his feet until they were just soak n wet. Our vet gave him a Cortizone shot. Said he felt old age was just restricting him and it would help with the inflamation. He did well for three months. Then returned to the same thing, keeping us up all night licking, biting and scratching. I took him back to the vet and he gave him another shot of Cortizone. I cannot explain how stupid I feel now. Five days after the second shot he began breathing heavy, panting and crying. I then got on the net and researched the Cortizone. I was devistated to see the blogs about other animals and their demise. Of coarse all the while knowing we still had to see the vet and find out what was happening. He did an array of test and gave us a very bad diagnosis. He now has an enlarged heart, liver and kidneys. I have spent two days researching holistic medicines for dogs and have come up with my own game plan. I love this dog more than my own life. I pray that God gives us a chance to make this right. There is a lot of information online by Cheryl Schwartz on how to treat liver failure and according to numerous websites. L-caritine and Taurine is a good start for his heart. I will be home cooking for him from now on. I just pray we are not too late. Sorry for the lengthly post. My advice to all pet owners. DONT JUST TAKE YOUR VETS WORD FOR THINGS! Check out the drugs and coarse of treatment suggested...BEFORE....it is administered. Hope this will help others. Thanks for the read. I feel better knowing I have a plan of action. Pray for Ozzy!

ChinkyMom 15 months ago

Hello All... my lil fella has just been diagonized with Enlarged Heart, coming Friday, I will be going to collect the medication. But I am not feeling comfortable about conventional treatment, out here itself almost every story is heart-breaking. Thank you for starting this post.

Seriously is there no hope? my fella is just 7 years.

Rose, I will pray for Ozzy, along with my Chinky... earlier there was a mention of 'Five Leaf Pet Pharmacy' anyone tried this?

http://www.caninehearthealth.com/Testimonials.html

http://www.carnitine-taurine.com/index.htm

Any comments will help, I am scared to get him on conventional medications, and the downward turn I will see... please help...

Rose 15 months ago

ChinkyMom, it has been over two weeks now that I put Ozzy on holistics and I am happy to say he is improving. I don't give him any dog food from the store. I prepare his meals four times a day (small amounts) I use beef liver (its less expensive)You can use cod, rabbit, white chicken meat or boiled eggs, oatmeal and either broccoli, sweet potatoe,spinach, beets, cabbage. In a 2 cup receipe only 1/3 cup should be protein (meat) 1/4 cup of veggies and the remainder should be oats or rice. This amount feeds my Ozzy three or four times a day. Because he is only 18lbs. To this each meal I add 1/3 capsule of L-carnitine (250mg), taurine (1000mg) and hawthorne berry (565mg) for his heart. 1/3 capsule milk thistle (250), sam -e (200mg) for his liver and kidneys. Along with these I sprinkle a pinch of B-Complex. One meal a day I add a quarter tablet of Nutra Vet Hip & Joint Plus which you can buy at Petco. One meal a day I include a capsule of fish oil (1000mg). After reading many blogs and websites I decided to use the things which all seemed to agree upon. Some did not include amounts so I just did my own thing. I will be taking Ozzy back to the vet for a rescan of his heart, liver and kidneys to see how they look. But I can tell you, he is almost back to normal as far as his demeaner. Sometimes he wants to play which he hasn't done in a couple years. Are last trip to the vet we had an added dianosis of arthritis which is why we give him the Hip and Joint. If he seems in pain I give him a third of an asperin. All is good for now. I hope I give him another year or two. ChinkyMom there is hope! Oh and by the way the vet did give Ozzy Enacard for his heart, which I gave him daily for about ten days and then I started cutting it back to every other day. I hope to get him off of it by the end of the 30 days. After reading about the side affects I was not happy. It also can cause kidney failure. Again I cannot stress how I feel it is important to research what a vet is giving your animal. Anyone want to ask further questions please email me at pabsinc@hotmail.com. I will try to get back on and update from time to time. Sorry for the long post. Again hope this helps someone else! God Bless.

Violet 13 months ago

Thank you for all your posts and storys. It is helping me a lot, I am feeling so alone right now. My Dobie girl Greta had congestive heart failure 5 days ago and is diagnosed with DCM.

When we brought her to ER we were told that maybe she doesn´t make it through the night. I was thinking: please, do not let her die here without us in this hospital. Please give her some more time to come home with us and die there. Not now, not here! Well, after two days we could take her home.

She now gets Vetmedin and Furosamide and that stuff really brought her back. She is a bit weak now but other than that she is her old self: constantly hungry, doing her property line patrols and lying in the sun. I find it extremely hard to cope with, that she will be gone in a while. I don´t want to let her go, knowing I have to.

Although a lot of people are very nice I had the feeling I want to talk to other people experiencing the same kind of shock and horror. It is somehow comforting to read all your stories - and somehow shocking, that so many beautiful Dobies have to face that fate. Why can´t they just get old and become slow grandmas and grandpas and look back to a long life...

Katerina Greece  10 months ago

I have a 9 year old purebred Golden Retriever. Strong and healthy, with no signs of heavy breathing or rapid heart beating . Today, we did X-rays on his hind leg, suspecting a mild hip problem. My vet also did a chest X-ray just for check up reasons. We found that his heart is enlarged. Tomorrow we are going for a ECG to see if he has DCM. I am devastated and I can't even think that I may loose him. He is the love of my life. Thank God that my vet did the chest x ray. At least we know and maybe we caught it early.

Erika 10 months ago

I stumbled upon this trying to find ways to cure my sadness and I was shocked at the exact situation. My 8 year old doberman, Bronson just passed away 07-04-2011 from cardiomyopathy.. Among other issues.. He had epulis tumors in his mouth always removed and would grow back.. Alopecia all over his coat, on thyroid meds.. But he was always so playful and then he just laid down after going out with my mother and playing ball a few times (we were away and not returning till next day)..

My mother brought him inside and pet him goodbye and he sprawled out on his blanket for a rest.. My mother came back a few hours later and he was already gone. I've never wanted any other breed than a doberman since Bronson.. I always said that any future dogs would be dobermans.. But after all of te health issues and the sudden passing of my gentle giant.. I'm too heartbroken to ever get another dog again and as much as i love dobermans.. I feel I can't go through the sadness and guilt from such a sudden death again. Thank you for your sharing your story. Very ironic we had the same breed, same sudden passing on the same day if year.

sheila hughes 9 months ago

our dobie was just diagnosed dcm routine exam rapid heart beat ekg confirmed.he is 4yrs old.his name is eli.we love him so much what a wonderful dog he is.he shows no signs of illness.the grieving process starts long before their gone.and invades everything you do throughout your day.our other dog noah,10yrs old will also lose his second doberman friend!to DCM.noah mourned our last one Aaron,for six months.thats how long it was before he smiled again.dogs feel loss profoundly too,so we dread watching this.it has made me physcially sick thinking on the loss to come.

Ruth 9 months ago

Our Weimaraner, Rico, has been diagnosed with DCM today. I'm devastated as we lost his soulmate, Freya, to cancer in January. He's 12 and had a great life so far - just don't know whether it's worth prolonging the agony by giving him medication or should we let him go to play with his girl? Very, very sad.

Jenn H 8 months ago

So sorry for your loss! Harley sounded like a great dog-a true companion! My dog Cody is my best friend and I think my husband feels the same way you felt. I had Cody before my husband and my husband still knows he's second best in the house-lol! Cody is now 11 (cocker spaniel) soon to be 12, and he just got diagnosed with DCM last week. It broke my heart. Thanks for the info here.

Rosene 8 months ago

Sadly yesterday I lost my beautiful 7 year old dalmatian Jaffa. He was diagnosed with DCM in February this year. He had not ever shown any signs, and spent at least 2-3 hours each week running, swimming(underwater)chasing birds etc. on a river bed not to far from us.

He had a virus that had upset his pancreas, and then was given a rawhide bone as a treat in January and reacted to this bone. It would appear that all this was contributory to DCM.

He had been on Pimobenden, Fortekor, and Diureticas, and in June was given a great report in so much as his heart strength had improved.

Within a week though he became ill, and all medication was increased, and he lost lots of muscle and tissue, and really just went downhill from there.

The decision to eutanase him was not an easy one, but his eyes told me I had to.

Jaffa has always been fed on natural food, with perhaps a smidgin of biscuits depending on what my schedule was.

He has always had Vitamin supplementsetc, and was the epitome of a happy, fit, dog. Much loved by all, and a beautiful dog to own. He is the last of my breeding, and I am just so gutted. I have his Mother and another dog I rescued and they are absolutely grieving today as is my cat. We have an emptly house.

This is a shocking disease, and one that needs much more research.

This is the first time I have encountered this in my dogs after 40 years of breeding, and I think I am in shock. No beautiful boy to greet me so happily.

Just needing to talk and share my grief.

Rosene

Candy 8 months ago

I wanted to ask if this disease can be diagnosed during the necropsy? Last year we lost our Chocolate Lab, Joe Blue, in the same manner that happen with Harley. We opted for the necropsy, trying to explain why our healthy, 6 1/2 year old guy-my running partner everyday, a therapy dog at 6 months old, our best friend just collapsed-in front of our two young girls. Despite our best efforts, among all the chaos/disbelief?tears of those precious moments, we could not revive him. We did not receive any explanation, as all organs etc. appeared healthy-only a thickened pancreas. We had just moved 830 miles away, a month prior to this, and a month before that Joe had received a clean bill of health at his vet. We did not yet have a vet in our new state, because all his needs were taking care of... We have talked to so many people trying to explain away our pain, but no explanation of why he died. No sign and no sense....then I stumbled onto your page here and it is the closest experience to ours. I SO can understand, and my heart goes out to you and your family. We understand the depth of the pain, and the frustration of not knowing. Our family has never been the same. Our lives have been forever changed by Joe's presence, and by his passing. A dog with a gift, uncanny connection to humans from day one, and a life way too short. Thanks for your posting. I am so sorry.I wish we did not share that sorrow, but I am grateful for your sharing of your experience. I am still searching for answers, and hoped someone may have some.

Rosene 8 months ago

Hello Candy,

Yes this should have been noted on autopsy as, the heart wall, and muscle becomes very thin and flaccid and the heart is incredibly enlarged, possibly pressing on to the trachea. With this disease most other organs are affected such as the spleen, pancreas, and kidneys. It is an insidious disease and can affect only the left or right side of the heart and also both. My boy was affected on both sides. However I cannot remember which side it is, but it mostly causes death with the dog perhaps fainting and dying almost immediately. Unfortunately even on diagnosis and treatment the prognosis is always bad.

My boy Jaffa, was much as you describe your boy. I cannot ever remember having to rouse on him. His presence was such that out home is empty even though I still have his Mum and a very large black dog I rescued some 11 years ago. They are still fretting.

I understand your absolute pain and I think even if you did know, it would not alter you grief and pain. All we can do is treasure the memories of owning these very special dogs.

Hope this has been a help, Rosene, (Australia)

Candy 8 months ago

Rosene,

Thank you SO much for your words, information and support. Your response was a big help to us. I am not sure Joe had this then, because the exam after his death only showed a thickened pancreas-nothing bothersome to the vet. His heart and all other organs appeared healthy.He was an athlete-water dog and runner etc. The vet offered no explanation, short of taking his brain apart and testing each piece-etc which we opted out of, there were no answers....We have another lab who is 6 1/2 now, and he has not been the same since-much like your family. Again, I so appreciate your time and your wonderful words. I am sorry we share this pain, but I appreciate your reaching out to us, with such a great loss for you too. I am truly sorry. Thank you,

Candy

Lola 7 months ago

I lost my beautiful darling dog yesterday. One moment we are outside for a walk, the next I am holding her in my arms wondering why she just fell over. 2 years old. My darling Great Dane. Absolutely no symptoms, and she was given a clean bill of health by the vet a month prior. I'm devastated. How do you get through this. It feels as though I have lost a piece of my heart as well.

Clare 7 months ago

Our beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Skyler, was just diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy. We are just now beginning the protocol of meds, etc. but he is already refusing to take the pills ~ so I'm having to pry his mouth open and give them to him. :( This is making me so sad, and the vet doesn't even want him walking up or down the stairs, as they are afraid of him passing out. We love our little guy so very much ~ enough to let him go if that's what has to happen. The tears are streaming down my face just thinking of what will happen. Have any of you put your dogs at rest before the disease makes things even worse. I am so torn as to what to do. Sending prayers and hugs to everyone who is dealing with this tragic diagnosis in their beloved pets.

Candy 7 months ago

To Lola,

I am truly sorry. I COMPLETELY understand, as I have stated up above, your experience sounds exactly the same, even down to the annual vet visit a month prior to the sudden collapse and death. I just want you to know, a year has passed for us, and we have not forgotten. We still get teary, and miss our Joe so much. For us, we have had family and friends support, made memorials, and hold the positive memories close. As "cliche-y" as it sounds, it has what has helped our hearts heal. I wanted you to know we understand the pain, and you are not alone. All good wishes to you as you heal your heart....I am sorry.

TO CLARA:

I am sorry for you as well. I still do not know if this is what killed our Joe, as we were given no explanation, or any time to say goodbye-it was just our unexpected reality one moment. I do have a friend with a doberman, on meds etc. and the dog has had the diagnosis for about 2 years and is doing well. She walks everyday, and even plays chase at the squirrels in the park every morning and evening....The dog looks wonderful, and in spite of a fear to let her run or get too excited, they do these activities with the dog everyday, and the dog looks so healthy and happy....so, there is hope.Hold on to it, and enjoy those moments you do have. Good wishes to you and your dog :-)

Linda 7 months ago

I read this and my girl, Kenya (41 mos old) died on 27 Sep (56 days after being diagnosed with DCM). It was the most horrible experience. From me taking her to the ER when I saw her having trouble breathing and her heartrate so rapid -- Had to leave her there so they could flush out the fluids. She had to stay 2 days. I vomited every day w/o her as I then read everything possible on this dreadful disease. After 2 weeks at home she was her old self. I let her play a little but no play time with her dog friends. I was slow at work so I spent every minute possible with her. She leaked a little from the 60 mg daily of lasix so I had found the perfect diapering method for nighttime. Had it all down to a routine except for the fact that I knew that she would die within the 6 months they gave us. She had no idea, she still played as much as I would allow. We took walks and waded in the lake. The day she went into CHF she was even dock diving so I cannot explain how one could even know when this is happening to their dog. It is devastating. I am still heart sick and cannot go for long each day without crying. She was there with me every second whatever I did and sleeping with me all rolled up like a baby fawn. It is a disease I wish could be eradicated. I am sorry for all others going thru this. Thru this website, I feel like I am not alone. All of the descriptions sound so similar and the love we all share is never ending.

Spikadoodle 7 months ago

I too just lost my beloved boxer. He was 7 and he was family! I was not aware of DCM. Spike was full of life and brought so much energy to ours. He died suddenly in my arms. I wish I would of known about DCM. My vet never mentioned this to me. I will say I feel better reading this site and knowing how other people feel about their dogs. He was so loved and cherished and I miss him terribly.

Sheri 7 months ago

I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved Harley. I have a fawn Doberman that was just diagnosed with DCM yesterday. We got him from a rescue group 5 years ago and he is between 9 and 10 years old now. Like your Harley, he is a loverboy and everyone who meets him immediately falls in love with him. It is so sad knowing he will only be with us for a little while longer. The vet gave him anywhere from 1 to 12 months, depending on how he reacts to the medication. The way we found out was he started coughing a lot a few days ago so I took him in thinking that maybe something was stuck in his throat. He was coughing because he was in congestive heart failure. The drugs have stopped the coughing now.

Not only will me, my husband, and our 2 girls miss him, but our puppy, who loves playing with him, will miss him terribly, I am sure. I think if he didn't start the coughing, it wouldn't have been too long until he collapsed because of how extensive the damage to his heart is already. It's crazy how he can suffer from this without a peep but when it is raining out, he can hold in his pee for days if he had to to avoid getting his toes wet!

I love him so much and will miss him so much when he is gone. I'm just glad we gave him a good 2nd half of life and still have some time left to spend with him and give him lots of hugs and love.

TImelessR1 6 months ago

My condolences to everyone that has lost their loved one from this horrible disease.

My wife and i just lost our beloved boxer girl yesteday morning from this disease. I brought her in to the vet to have an echo test done, and recieved a call 2 hours later that her heart stopped 15 mins after the test.

My wife and I are devestated...one min she was running and barking and chasing squierls, the next she is gone....

Annika 6 months ago

Hi, We've just found out our beloved choc lab Orson has this horrible disease! Its knocked us for six.

He had a cough (thought to be kennel cough) and after a few days on antibiotics was not getting any better so we took him back to the vets where they said he had abnormal heart rhythm and his pulse wasn't matching his heartbeat. He also had fluid on the lungs. He is currently at a specialist vet centre where they are working to reduce his breathing to less than 160bpm and drain the fluid from his lungs.

We are lucky to have him still with us it seems from some of the stories but we haven't seen him for a 3 days as we didn't want him to be distressed when we went to see him and then left him behind. This seemed fine as the vets thought he may be coming home by today we thought it was better not to upset him by visiting and then leaving him as he worries when we go anywhere and leave him behind (he was fine when we left him on Friday though strangely he just trotted off with the vets who had been examining him). Now we just miss our baby.

My condolences to everyone affected by this whose babies have gone. We are just trying to take each day as it comes and hope we can have our little boy home soon. He's only 5 it seems so unfair as he is part of our family and we had so many plans for the future which he played a big part in. He is pretty much the perfect dog! Its the not knowing which is hard as my husband is worrying that once he is home he will go to work and Orson will die without him being there. We can only hope he defies the odds and we can make the last days of his life truly special.

Sorry for the long message just feel you are people who know our pain...

kerryfrances 5 months ago

Hi Guys...I have been researching heart disease for the past couple of days. My girl "Pepper" a seven year old dogue de bordeaux collapsed the other day while protecting her chickens from a neighbouring cat. After a few minutes she was back on her feet again. However, I have noticed over the past couple of years, this has happened a couple of times after exertion. Unfortunately I live in a rural area in NZ and travel to the vet and the vet fees are not affordable. Pepper is very spoilt and has never experienced anything horrid in her life. Reading all of your letters has touched my heart. I know that I will lose her...but she lives with love and I hope that I will be with her when she passes and that it is painless. LOVE TO YOU ALL AND YOUR DOGS.

Tameside Citizen 5 months ago

It is so sad reading these stories, I can relate to every one. My baby Buster, a seven year old Boxer male has just been diagnosed with DCM. Buster was a real powerful Boxer, I viewed him as invincible as he was never ill and was incredibly powerfully built and athletic by Boxer standards. Every day for the past three or four years we went on 4-8 miles walks. Over the last couple of months we noticed he was losing weight, we thought it was because I had been giving him too much ball exercise but the weight loss was not drastic so we didn’t think it anything serious.

About a month ago he developed a horrible dry cough, we assumed it was just something minor like a piece of food trapped in his windpipe and again we did not take it too seriously.

A couple of weeks ago he didn’t seem to be his usual self. His appetite had diminished and he seemed depressed - until I took him out on one of our epic treks in the hills and then he was back to his usual self.

We were about two miles into our walk when I noticed him walking strangely. He was swaying from side to side as if he was drunk. Next thing and to my absolute horror his legs collapsed and he fell to the ground. He was having a slight convulsion and I thought he was going to die there and then. I hugged him and told him he was ok and he was just starring at me in a dazed manner. To my absolute relief within two minutes he jumped up and was back on his feet wanting to play ball. I thought drama over but couldn’t work out what happened.

A week later his weight loss and lack of appetite for food was becoming a real concern, as was his horrible dry cough. We said we would give it a couple of days to see if he fights off this bout of ill health which we still viewed as nothing very too serious before we book him to the vets, then come collapse No2. Straight away we took him as an emergency case to the vets. The X-rays revealed massive swelling of the heart and medication consisting of Vetmedin 5mg Fruscare 40mg was prescribed.

He is due back in on Thursday but the outlook cannot be good. He has gone from being a perfect specimen of health into a weak and very old looking dog. It is as if he has aged 10 years in two months.

Once you piece together all the pieces it was obvious from the start that he had DCM, but like many other commenter’s, I had never even heard of it until this nightmare was thrust upon us.

Now every day we spend with Buster is precious and filled with anxiety. I feel absolutely terrible knowing I had been taking him into the hills of the Peak district and really exercising him hard, not realising he was suffering from this horrendous heart condition.

Buster cannot figure out why our epic walks have stopped and now we only walk short distances on level ground, maybe it is for the best that he doesn’t know what afflicts him, but for us it is truly heartbreaking to know he soon will be leaving us for good.

Kathie 4 months ago

I'm sorry for everyone's loss... I just put my baby to sleep on 01/21/12. She always seemed healthy and I still can't understand how she was taken away so suddenly. She started breathing heavily on Friday night lifting her head up - she didn't want to eat breakfast or dinner but I didn't think much of it until that night when she started lifting her head as if gasping for air. I took her to the vet first thing in the morning. X-rays came back showing fluids around the heart and lungs. The vet had said she can refer me to a specialist but she didn't think Daisy had much of a chance. She was 12 years of age and decided right then and there to rid her of her suffering. She wasn't diagnosed with CHF - the vet thought she probably had developed cancer but only the specialist can make the diagnosis. At times i wonder if i jumped the gun in putting her to sleep but i just kept remembering how miserable she looked that night and kick myself for not taking her to emergency then. After doing some research on her symptoms, I'm almost certain it was CHF. The vet couldn't see her heart as she had too much fluid. It also showed on the X-ray how the fluid had moved her lungs from their original position causing Daisy to suffer in pain hence the panting and the heavy breathing. Money has always been short but that was never an issue. My little girl never suffered in her 12 years - always healthy, always happy up until that Friday night. Had the vet given me hope, perhaps i would have seeked the specialist... It still haunts me and I wonder if I should have taken her to the specialist??? But then I read all the stories and procedures that were done to their babies and it brings me some comfort knowing that I didn't have to watch my baby deteriorate. CHF is a death sentence and at 12 years of age, I have to say - my baby lived a wonderful life!

sheenagh bowell 3 months ago

hi so pleased i found this site just found out yesterday my girl abigail as D.C.M she is a 6 year old Weimaraner i was in such a state i had to choose weather to put her to sleep or bring her home.....! i brought her home as the vet said she would be in no pain just would sleep a (well nearly) dont know if it was selfish of me to bring her home just couldn't imaging life without her my husband says she was spoilt before so now there is no chance if she wants it she can have it lol at the moment she is laid on my bed somewhere she wouldn't be alound to be lol i love her so much and reading all these coments on here just made me cry again i know she as not got long to go the vet said 3 - 6 months but i need time to say goodbuy its so not fair x

Tameside Citizen 3 months ago

Hi Sheenagh, you’ve done the right thing in my opinion. It comes as a devastating blow when DCM is diagnosed but with medication your remaining time together can be enjoyable.

Our Buster had advanced DCM when diagnosed and the vets did not rate his chances of living more than seven days. He died six days ago. Two months after the diagnosis but in Buster’s case the medication worked remarkably well and he had a very enjoyable last two months with the exception of the sad twelve hours before the end.

I made a video journal of his last eight weeks starting just after diagnosis when the medication was starting to work. Prior to the medication which in the UK is known as Vetmedin and a diuretic called Fruscare, he was in a truly terrible state and very close to death. The drug cocktail prescribed by the vet did bring about a big improvement, so much so that after four weeks I really began to believe he was on the road to recovery despite all the expert opinion saying there can be no recovery from DCM without a transplant, and as we know that is not an option for dogs. Sadly though the experts were right, but he was treated like a king for the last eight weeks and right up until the 24 hours before his passing which started with a return of the dreaded cough he was happy and going on daily walks of 5 miles+ albeit at a leisurely pace.

To watch the video follow the Youtube link below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_sWCGUhsDw

ALICIA 2 months ago

MY BEAUTIFUL WEIMERAMER SAGE JUST COLLAPSED AND DIED THE NIGHT BEFORE LAST. I HAD NO IDEA WHAT HAD HAPPENED, SHE HAD BEEN FINE ALL DAY PLAYING WITH MY OTHER TWO DOGS AND ACTING LIKE SHE ALWAYS DID. I CAME DOWNSTAIRS AND FOUND HER COLLAPSED, I COULDN'T REVIVE HER. I HAD ONLY NOTICED A DRY COUGH BUT HAD GOTTEN BETTER. I KNEW NOTHING OF DCM. THANK YOU FOR YOUR WEBSITE, I THOUGHT I HAD FAILED HER, I LOVED HER SO MUCH AND WILL MISS HER TERRIBLY. SHE WAS THE SWEETEST MOST LOVABLE DOG, SHE WAS FAMILY

Jo 8 weeks ago

Hi, my 7 year old Doberboy Homer was diagnosed with DCM 3 days ago. Both sides of his heart are affected & he also has abnormal rhythms. He is currently taking Vetmedin,Frusemide, Spironolactone & Fortekor. It started with a cough(which was more like dry retching than a cough)about 3 weeks ago but it was very on/off at first & we weren't unduly worried. He went to the vet 10 days ago for his booster & told the vet what he was doing & we thought that he may have had a partial blockage as his only symptom was retching.He said to keep an eye on him over the weekend & bring him back on Monday if he was still doing it. Last Monday came & off to the vets we went for an xray & blood test to determine what was wrong with him. 2 hours later came the devastating phone call to tell us he suspected DCM & that he wanted Homer to see a heart specialist to confirm it. Anyway he saw the specialist who scanned his heart & said yes he does have DCM. I am really struggling to understand how a dog that looks & acts so fit & healthy can be one heartbeat away from death. He is our 3rd dobe & we rescued him nearly 3 years ago after the death of our much loved & missed Dobe Eddie as a companion for our Dobergirl Amber. Eddie was only 10 when he died,he had heart problems(not DCM) & we lost Amber last June at the ripe old age of 14 1/2. I can't bear the thought of losing Homer so soon after Amber, it's not fair,he's bought so much joy & love into our lives & I am so angry that he will be denied the long happy life that he deserves. I don't think he had the best of lives before we rescued him & he deserves so much more than what fate has dished out to him. He seems his normal bouncy self, he's eating well & seems like there's nothing wrong with him. Yet I know that he has a ticking timebomb in his chest that is going to go off sooner or later. He hasn't has any fainting spells yet. Is this something that will happen as his illness progresses or do some dogs with DCM never have fainting spells? I find myself watching him breathe when he's sleeping & stalking his every move when he's outside in the garden as I can't bear the thought of him being alone if he suddenly drops down dead. Is he in pain suffering with DCM? I couldn't bear that. Any words of advice would be much appreciated as I just want to do what's best for him. Thanks, Jo.

Keri 3 weeks ago

Hello everyone,

We have an 11 yr old DObie, Onyx, who i suffering from DCm as well. Started off as a cough on a Thurs night and by Friday mornign he was labored with breathing. I am devastated by the idea of losing my goffy long legged love. He is lathargic and is not eating. He is on meds, but some days are better then others. Often times I see him struggling to breath. ANd after lapping up water he will choke. He fights so hard to be "himself". I know the day is coming fast where he leaves us and to be honest, I am heart sick my little baby will no longer be around.

Good luck to all who are fighting this!

JO our vet said he was not in pain. Just frustrated he cant be who her was..running around all the time! Being a goofy dog!