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Hello. I have an issue with my 8-year-old English Cocker Spaniel. After some mild coughing, the vet found a throat irritation but also said that his heart had grown bigger (DCM). He said that the growth is not that big and put him on medication, but I wanted a second opinion. I attached a photo of the x-ray

Hello. I have an issue with my 8-year-old English Cocker Spaniel. After some mild coughing, the vet found a throat irritation but also said that his heart had grown bigger (DCM). He said that the growth is not that big and put him on medication, but I wanted a second opinion. I attached a photo of the x-ray

Updated On September 12th, 2023

Pet's info: Dog | English Cocker Spaniel | Male | neutered | 8 years and 3 months old | 35 lbs

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

Hello and thank you for using Pet Coach! Based on the radiograph you attached, the vertebral heart score (VHS) is on the larger measurement and overall the heart does have increased contact with the sternum. There does not appear to be evidence of heart failure, but I am limited with one x-ray view and no ability to adjust the contrast. I don't know what medication your veterinarian started Bono on but in this case, I would recommend starting omega 3 fish oil, Pimobendan (prescription medication that helps delay on the onset of heart failure and helps the heart pump more efficiently). I would also look into heart supplements such as Standard Process Whole Body Support and Cardiac support (if available in your country). Here is an article from my hospital on heart disease and what to look out for. Mitral valve disease is one of the most common heart conditions we see in dogs. I hope this helps and provides you with more information. If you have any concerns, I would reach out to the veterinarian who has been seeing Bono.

https://www.neighborhoodvetclinic.com/degenerative-valve-disease-myxomatous-mitral-valve-disease/

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6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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