As the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine says, MMVD “is the most common acquired type of heart disease and [cause of] new murmurs in older dogs.” The condition is sometimes also called endocardiosis, or degenerative mitral valve disease. 2 мая 2013 г.
How serious is a heart murmur in an older dog?
The disease is slowly progressive in most cases and the leak will continue to worsen over months to years. If the disease becomes severe, the dog is at risk for developing congestive heart failure.
How long can older dogs live with a heart murmur?
Many dogs live a long time after being diagnosed with a heart murmur, and some can even live years after being diagnosed with heart failure.
Can heart murmurs go away in older dogs?
Keep in mind also that heart murmurs typically occur in older dogs because of an underlying health condition. Many of these causes are treatable and may even resolve on their own. However, in more severe cases, and especially with older dogs, the outlook may be more guarded.
When should I worry about a heart murmur in my dog?
If your dog has a heart murmur and you see coughing, congestion, change in breath sounds or rapid breathing, exercise intolerance, weakness or “fainting,” gray or blue gums, abdominal distention, or lethargy, you should most certainly seek medical attention.
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