our dog is a 12yr old lab/retr mix. in the last 2 years he has shown more weakness, his vomiting is every day ALL day now. he will eat for a few days and then stop eating for a week. his vomit is mucousy and snotty, foamy looking. he has had diarrhea he can barely make it up the steps and when he does he walks up sideways - stops - and then continues. he barely drinks any water. his hacking cough (as if he has a hairball or something) has been CONSTANTLY for the last 3-6 months
Pete Velotas says:
January 16th, 2009 at 02:50 PM
This sounds like it could be multiple problems, so I might need some history:
1.) What food are you feeding him? - some foods are more prone to give dogs digestive problems
2.) When was the last time he went to the vet? - a fecal test might be necessary to see if there is any type of bacterial infection or possible parasite that could be causing his digestive problems. Also, they would be able to take a look at his spine and legs for possible arthritis/hip dysplasia, which is quite common in the breed, and worsens once they reach advanced age, a bracket which your dog falls in
3.) Has your vet ever diagnosed a heart murmur? - Many times this can cause coughing, especially in the mornings or any time after laying down for an extended time
I would highly recommend a visit to your vet to check out the problems you're experiencing
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