Medical management can also include the use of Adequan injections to help strengthen the weakened cartilage. Adequan is used to help cartilage repair in the joints of pets with arthritis, and may offer some benefit to the trachea as well. Acupuncture and herbal therapies when provided by trained veterinarians also offer bene- fits.
For those dogs that have failed aggressive medical
and environmental management, and have had other causes or co-respiratory disease treated or ruled out, then surgical intervention is needed. Usually, these are dogs that have greater than 50% of the diameter of the trachea collapsed. For dogs that have collapse of the trachea in the
neck region, the placement of polypropylene rings to support the diameter of the trachea can be placed. There are potential complications that can occur from this procedure but the needs of the dog may outweigh the risks of complications. However, the owner needs to be made aware of such complications. If there are con- current diseases, then less satisfactory results are to be expected. For dogs that have collapse of the trachea in the
chest region, a metal mesh stent can be placed. These stents are compressed into a very small size prior to placement in the trachea. When released, the stent pops into full size and supports the diameter of the trachea. There can be complications and side effects from this procedure as well, but not as invasive as placement of the polypropylene rings. Occasionally, these stents may move and have to be repositioned or additional stents placed if the area of collapse changes. Supportive care for these dogs is very important. This includes treatment of other air way diseases such as an elongated soft palate or paralysis of the larynx. If the dog is overweight, weight loss alone can be of great ben- efit. Excitement and humid conditions that may pro- mote coughing should be avoided. Do not use a collar, but instead a harness. A harness will put less pressure on the trachea. Avoid smoke, pollen, dust, and other aller- gens as much as possible. Second hand smoke can trig- ger coughing in dogs. Dog owners who smoke are encouraged to quit, or smoke outside away from their dog.
So let’s render a little more attention to when our
dogs make these odd sounds that we would ordinarily disregard as a passing cough. There could be something underlying we can manage before things get out of hand.
U Y
Dr. Timothy Hodge, DVM is the owner of Harbourside Animal Hospital in the Channelside District of Tampa. 813.229.3322, and Cross Creek Animal Medical Centre in North Tampa. 813.994.6929
www.TheNewBarker.com Winter 2017 THE NEW BARKER 67
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Valentine’s Barkfest
Co-hosted by
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® SaturdaS t turday, F , February 13, 2017 8:30am - 11:30am
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A BENEFIT FOR PET PAL ANIMAL SHELTER Enjoy Breakf
fast with us. Special homemade treats f Valen for all dogs.
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