Caring for a Dog With Congestive Heart Failure- Part 1

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  • Опубліковано 16 бер 2019
  • To see updates on Twinkie visit his Instagram at Twinkie_the_chihuahua_
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    Hi everyone! This is Twinkie my 12 year old Chihahua. I had him his whole life and he was always a happy healthy pup. During a routine check up his Vet told me he has a heart murmer and that I should take him to a cardiologist. His echocardiogram results showed that Twinkie has a collapsed trachea, a leaking heart valve, an enlarged heart, a heart murmer (6 out of 6) pulmonary hypertension, heart disease and heart failure 😭
    He was given 6 months to a year.
    Although the meds were helping, he was still having an episode about once a month and we were racing him to the vet to get him on oxygen. Each time they adjusted his meds and added a new one. At this point he is on 5!
    Ferosimide (Lasix)
    Enalapril
    Pimobendan
    Spironolactone
    and Sidenafil (Viagra)
    I decided to bring him to a holistic vet in February and she put him on supplements and vitamins. I talk about them in this video.
    Here is a list of safe treats the Holistic Vet gave me also:
    HEART HEALTHY DOG TREATS-
    -Hills prescription diet canine treats
    -Old Mother Hubbard Assorted Bitz
    -Purina Veterinary Diets Lite Snackers
    -Science Diet Chew with real Veggies
    -Science Grain Free Treats
    -Science Idea Balance Oven Baked or Soft Baked Naturals
    -Royal Canine Veterinary Diet Dog Treats
    Other Safe Foods-
    Fruit, low sodium canned food, salt free peanut butter with no artificial sugars, home cooked meat, (No lunch meats!) eggs, sardines, ground beef, salmon, turkey, boiled chicken, rice.
    I am going to do an updated video after his follow up on May 13th. So far he has been good with no episodes since put on the supliments. But anything can change in a heartbeat so we are ready to go to the vet if his breathing becomes heavy.
    I suggest having a little bag packed for your dog so that if you need to race out of the house you will have important things packed like a blanket, a water bottle with a bowl, a toy, and anything else you want to have with you at the vet.
    Thanks everyone for watching my video! I really hope this helps other people who are going through such a horrible thing with their baby's. Just remember your not alone!
    Here are some Facebook Pages and articles that I found useful-
    / 1918219761731375
    / 313275948825556
    / 1975451479201870
    / congestive-heart-failu...
    / mightyheartsmvdcommunity
    heartmdinstitute.com/pets/pre...

КОМЕНТАРІ • 363

  • @biorythmicshifter
    @biorythmicshifter 4 роки тому +61

    Add some CBD oil in to your protocol, I’ve read that helps a lot.. I am dealing with the same thing with my little buddy. I home cook all his food and add supplements to help give his body what it needs to offset the medications. I don’t feel so alone when I see others like yourself dealing with this. My heart goes out to everyone coping with this...

    • @bobinh2otown
      @bobinh2otown 3 роки тому +1

      Our Yorkie was just diagnosed with CHF...
      Ambit looking for any supplements that can help, he is only in the enanpril and just ended his lasix..

    • @fshajeee7485
      @fshajeee7485 3 роки тому +1

      What supplements do you recommend

    • @SondraGeneral
      @SondraGeneral 2 роки тому

      What CBD oil do you prefer?

    • @biorythmicshifter
      @biorythmicshifter 2 роки тому +5

      @@SondraGeneral I used Charlotte’s Web. I got it from a health food store locally. The most important thing you can do is cherish every moment and give as much love as possible…I couldn’t stop the inevitable. My prayers for you and your little one, I know it’s hard.

    • @SondraGeneral
      @SondraGeneral 2 роки тому +2

      @@biorythmicshifter I am so sorry to hear that. Take care and thank you so much for the recommendation. Tough times.. Thank you.

  • @anthonym3351
    @anthonym3351 Рік тому +7

    It's a miracle he's still going strong! Would love an updated video to see how his regimen has been tweaked over the years!

  • @katevans4846
    @katevans4846 4 роки тому +20

    My 11 year old chihuahua has just been graded at stage 5 and he’s my absolute world 😢 I’ve cried all day. The vet said worse case he lives 3 months, best case is 12. I wanted to help him but felt helpless, so this has given me hope. I’ll get the supplements you recommended as unfortunately we don’t have holistic vets in the UK. Thank you for this video ❤️🙏

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +4

      I found out Twinkie had CHF when he was 11 also. His case was so severe even the holisic vet said he had a scary chart. I cried so much after my best friend Twinkie was given a death sentence. He is now 13 and a half and doing better then 2 years ago. So there definitely is hope! I have heard that the UK does not have holisic vets but are you able to order suppliments and vitamins on amazon? If not, theres still options. Changing their diet makes a huge difference. Did you see my newest video I made with the food I give Twinkie? I will attach the link here. Dont stress to much because I had a cloud over my head for the first year and it's not a good feeling to have constantly. As our babys get older theres always going to be an ailment that takes them from us. So at least CHF can be controlled for a long time. Good luck with your baby and you never know, you may have him for many more years to come!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      ua-cam.com/video/xROcFqH8T38/v-deo.html

    • @Serenityfor1
      @Serenityfor1 3 роки тому +4

      My chihuahua female Lola died this morning, one year after being diagnosed with CHF. I was grateful to have had her live this long but so sad she is gone now.

    • @cindysoares5120
      @cindysoares5120 2 роки тому +4

      My girl was just diagnosed. Your video gave me comfort. I can’t eat or sleep. I’m just devistated. I hope your baby is still ok

    • @jocelynkreiser
      @jocelynkreiser Рік тому

      @@cindysoares5120 i hope your girl is thriving despite her diagnosis from rep months ago. my baby was just diagnosed last night. it was so sudden; i am shocked and heart broken. he is a 14 y/o dachshund, and active & healthy for his age, with the exception of an enlarged liver and a slipped disc (2x in the same place) in his back that he’s since recovered from. there were no warning signs until he filled up with fluid and his belly looked like a beach ball. we are waiting for more diagnostics and considering our options. i won’t give up on him. it is so hard when we love them as much as we do.

  • @codyrose7771
    @codyrose7771 4 роки тому +5

    Thanks so much for making this video! God bless you and all those commenting below. You're all such a big help. My little Chihuahua mix, Baby Love, is in stage 4 CHF. We rescued her from death row at the dog pound, she had 4 days left to live. My husband passed away a year later, so she's the one who was and is always there for me. I've been having trouble getting her to eat; it's the only way I can get pills down her. I dissolve them in water and add it to her food. She won't let me give them any other way. She won't even let me put a little sweater on her, so I've had my fingers bitten many times. Our other Chihuahua rescue was the same way, only it took 5 yrs for her to allow me to pick her up. The neighbors had her on the roof during a hurricane!!! (yes, my husband made them get her off the roof during the eye) They later moved out in the middle of the night abandoning her and another dog. We took them both. She died from kidney failures years later. Baby is hard to feed. I read that you give your dogs sardines and said, "WHAT?!" I tried it and she ate, meds and all and asked for more! THANK YOU! (Of course, the cat had to have some, too!)

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      Wow you have been through so much with your babies! I'm glad she likes the sardines. I have a new video with a lot of different things you can feed her that shrunk Twinkie heart back to normal! I will post the link here. Good luck!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      ua-cam.com/video/xROcFqH8T38/v-deo.html

  • @MrEffyourface
    @MrEffyourface 5 років тому +14

    Going through the same thing. Switched to homemade dog food. Added vitamins and minerals. Their medicine was making them so lethargic. It broke my heart. My vet just told me what they had and gave me meds. Didn’t tell me about the medicine taking a toll on their kidneys and liver. Nothing about diet. Had to do my own research. Glad there are people out their sharing their experience. Thank you!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  5 років тому +5

      Yea I asked 2 different vets what to feed Twinkie and they said give him anything he wants?! Um yea just like if we were sick we wouldn't eat junk food! Thank goodness for the facebook group I joined, theres so many people on there going through what we are. And the Holistic Vet gave me a big list of no no foods, and ok foods. I stopped giving grain free too because I'm hearing it's bad for them. Now its chopmeat, sardines, salmon and boiled chicken with some soft dog food in between meals when he wants a snack. The vitamins, supplements and humidifier seems to be helping a lot! He acts like himself again, but like I said, every day with my Twinks is a miracle ❤ hang in there, your not alone!

  • @markwilliams9327
    @markwilliams9327 Рік тому +3

    So helpful. I have a loss to this in the last 4 weeks. I don’t have words to describe it.

  • @trulyjane
    @trulyjane 2 роки тому +5

    Thanks for being so thorough! I really appreciate you honesty and your genuine love and care for your dog. My dog was diagnosed yesterday and I thought I was going to pass out just hearing it.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  Рік тому +3

      I felt the same way 4 years ago, don’t listen to the statistics! If you take care of CHF it can be manageable for a long time ❤️

    • @jocelynkreiser
      @jocelynkreiser Рік тому +2

      how is your baby doing? mine was just
      diagnosed last night. it was so sudden; i am shocked and heart broken. he is a 14 y/o dachshund, and active & healthy for his age, with the exception of an
      enlarged liver and a slipped disc (2x in
      the same place) in his back that he's
      since recovered from. there were no
      warning signs until he filled up with fluid very suddenly and his belly looked like a beach ball. we are waiting for more diagnostics and considering our options. i won't give up on him. it is so hard when we love them as much as we do.

    • @trulyjane
      @trulyjane Рік тому

      @@jocelynkreiser Unfortunately Benjie didn't make it. But at least he was 14 years old and lived a good long life. He was a MinPin and was born with a heart murmur so he lived much longer than expected.

  • @GuscioRosso
    @GuscioRosso 2 роки тому +3

    My buddy is ill.
    He's a little old, 12 years old now almost 13, he's been in the family since I was in junior high school....
    He has been restless for a few months now and has had breathing problems and what seemed to be a brief collapse.
    I took him to the vet for a routine checkup and he confirmed a strong heart murmur, as well as possible entherite or colon cancer... He said that the main problem is the second that the heart can wait and scheduled an x-ray and ecg for next month...but for the agitation I forgot to tell him about the episode in which he had a fainting spell...
    I read that dogs affected by CHF (congestive heart failure) have very low life expectancy max 6 months 1 year ...
    Besides the possible tumor...
    I'm very afraid of losing him, it's funny that at the beginning I hated him, I didn't want him, then he broke into my heart, with those beady eyes and the big nose, so cheerful and hyperactive, he jumped around like a kangaroo, he did so many pranks when he was young... I'm almost addicted to him, he's the only real friend, a part of my soul... I regret having neglected him several years ago, too busy with teenage dramas.
    How do you handle loss? I'm not capable, I hate even more the fact that in time I will forget him... as if he never existed. The house will be so cold and empty...and I'll get used to it like nothing happened.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  2 роки тому +3

      I’m sorry you got this news about your baby, I also got the news when Twinkie was 11 and he’s about to be 15 next week so when they say 6 months to a year that’s just what they say but if they are taken care of right they can live with CHF for a long time, so don’t put an expiration date on him and worry yourself sick because I did that for the first 2 years and finally realized that he’s still here and even when he does go I got many more years out of him and unfortunately dogs don’t live as long as us so I tell myself it’s not that he was taken from me to soon it’s just that he was old and had ailments his body couldn’t fight off anymore which is what happens to everyone when they get old. So I try not to think of him as dying of heart failure but that he’s getting old and living with ailments that dogs get at an older age. Twinkie had fainting spells too so his vet gave him sildinafil and it helps a lot! He’s on other meds too, another one is lasix which was making him very sick so I reduced it. If your dog goes on meds remember there’s trial and errors, once you figure out what dosages works for him things should become steady. And one day when you don’t have him anymore you’ll never forget him, he’s always going to be a piece of your heart ❤️

  • @kellilien1736
    @kellilien1736 9 місяців тому

    Our little 9 year old Morkie was diagnosed with a degenerative valve disease (left side of heart) this past early spring. She had shown no symptoms prior to our local vet discovering a murmur. We had her seen at the UMN Veterinary Hospital by a cardiologist. They put her on Pimobendan and "Early Cardiac" Royal Canin dry food. Said the goal was to be on a low salt diet. AFTER the Pimobendan, she started showing signs of heart problems: panting, coughing, restlessness, anxiety, and no interest in anything. We questioned the Pimobendan and, after two months, reduced the dose. By this time, we had already consulted with our local vet and our dog's first vet (a friend of ours) who lived in another state. Both said to discontinue the Pimobendan. Pimobendan is supposed to prevent dogs from going into the CHF phase. But it certainly seemed to be a drug our dog could not take. She was put on Elanapril when the murmur was first observed and the UMN took her off of that. They told me that the Lasix drug was for when there was fluid in the lungs and it could be heard as "crackling". She has never had that. Right now, we are waiting to have a second opinion ... another Cardiologist. We want her to have a quality of life and we also want her to keep living. It is a big dilemma. FYI: She seems fine not on any drugs. But we know it's degenerative and she'll end up on meds. Our appointment is at the end of the month. We want to do whatever is best for her. Thank you for posting your heartfelt and helpful video.

  • @DjKayD
    @DjKayD 9 місяців тому +1

    Thanks for the video, my boy chihuaha just died yesterday from this at age 9 with a murmur and enlarged heart. The diuretic the vets gave him seemed to have stopped working and his breathing went rapid. He was so lively and people still thought he was a puppy, so i thought he had a few more years before passing. We were going to go travelling together. I get exactly how strongly you feel. Hope he is doing well❤

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  9 місяців тому +1

      I am so sorry for your loss. 9 is still young, that must have been so not expected 😭 I wish there was something I could say to help, but I’m certain you gave him the best life he could have but it’s just not fair, you were probably expecting many more years and fun times traveling. This happened to me years ago with one of my soul dogs. And the feeling is extremely unbearable. I hope you can find a way to cope and remember how much purpose you gave each other. He is with you still in spirit and knows you did everything you could 💔

  • @monicatafoya4036
    @monicatafoya4036 4 роки тому +6

    Just found out this week that my baby has CHF. This helps so much and gives me a little bit of hope. thank you so much.

  • @deannastclare9775
    @deannastclare9775 3 роки тому +5

    I lost my baby last November 2019 and his brother February 2020 from this . So heartbroken losing them both . They were just gone 12 years and had it for 4 years

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому +3

      I’m so sorry 😢 I hope you are able to cope after losing 2 babies, I can’t even imagine 💔

  • @stevebranco2780
    @stevebranco2780 10 місяців тому +1

    This is an amazing video, finally somebody that is going through what I am going through with my 15-year-old Chihuahua. We’ve been diagnosed sent December 2022. She’s on the three main liquid medication‘s. We’re having a good days and we’re having bad days. The vet never said anything about the supplements I’m going to order them from Amazon as we speak. Your video is very genuine. Thanks for sharing.

  • @ValePlace
    @ValePlace 7 місяців тому

    My little man after a long battle of 3 yrs w the same CHF passed away today. The vet visits n meds were v I found your video 4 months ago. I bought everything you recommended as well as your routine regimine most of which id already been doing including the meds. I want to thank you for sharing your experience with us. God knows, I miss him already. Took him for a nice car ride since he was quickly expiring- b4 our final vet appt. He passed away in the car as I was checking in at vet hospital. Modern veterinary medicine needs to do better by us - its just not fair. If I had 20k - he'd have been to Colorado to receive that TEER treatment.

  • @hammettchiropracticfunctio7302
    @hammettchiropracticfunctio7302 5 років тому +9

    Omg! I’m going thru the same thing with my chihuahua/Pomerania mix. My baby looks just like your Tinky. I to did my research and I give my baby her meds along with her supplements. I give her the VetiScience Cardio Support, Omega 3 fish oil, PetWell Being Cardio Gold, PetWell Being Kidney support. I have no affiliation with PetWell Being. I just read hundreds of great reviews from pet owners who’s fur babies have CHF. I did also take my fur baby to a Cardiologist and a holistic veterinary. And they both agreed that the supplements along with the meds will cause no interaction. You do want to support the heart and kidneys with the supplements and I believe it will help your baby to feel better and live longer. I agree with you, cherish everyday and moment with them and be fortunate you have them to love and they will love you. I did join the Facebook CHF for doggies too and there is a lot of support from people going thru the same thing. Thank you for sharing your story! Twinky is lucky to have you. You’re lucky you get to take him to work. I’m actually thinking about quitting my job to stay home with my Jodi and perhaps find an online job. Big hugs to all fur baby parents with babies with CHF.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  5 років тому +1

      Thank you so much for sharing your journey with CHF! I appreciate any advice anyone has, because there's always more to learn and try. I will look up the supplements you recommended and good luck with your baby❤

    • @colibri4676
      @colibri4676 5 років тому

      Jennifer Hammett, D.C. thank you for writing the name of these supplements!!! I’ll get them today I’m desperate because my dog is not improving

    • @Osky305
      @Osky305 4 роки тому

      What type of fish oil you buy ? I mean like what brand ? Is it on Amazon ?

  • @NU2UTX
    @NU2UTX 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for this info!

  • @acguevara7047
    @acguevara7047 3 роки тому

    Thank you for sharing

  • @user-vk3jk4ns2k
    @user-vk3jk4ns2k 2 роки тому

    Awesome video, thank you

  • @magalissantiago2817
    @magalissantiago2817 4 роки тому +11

    Awe so cute your babies are God Bless them

  • @williamkeaton9654
    @williamkeaton9654 Рік тому

    Great video thank you

  • @arielfang3786
    @arielfang3786 2 роки тому

    Thank you so much!! I need this video more than everything! ❤️❤️❤️

  • @TapIntoAlignment
    @TapIntoAlignment 3 роки тому

    Such an excellent video...thank you soooo much! ✨🙏🏼✨

  • @sierraroth5648
    @sierraroth5648 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for posting this video

  • @stacytoomey4641
    @stacytoomey4641 3 роки тому

    Thank you so much!!!!!

  • @abelitsos
    @abelitsos 4 роки тому +1

    You are the best! God bless both of you.

  • @gust9464
    @gust9464 4 роки тому +2

    Awww God bless him ❤️🙏🏾

  • @truthseeker2220
    @truthseeker2220 2 роки тому

    ty this is useful info

  • @kayfoulds1492
    @kayfoulds1492 2 роки тому +1

    I've just found out mine has it.I'm giving him Hawthorne tea and its wonderful!!!

  • @tambrasmith4199
    @tambrasmith4199 Рік тому

    Thank you

  • @cecilrobinson2147
    @cecilrobinson2147 10 місяців тому

    You did a really good job explaining these things.

  • @rachelc4950
    @rachelc4950 10 місяців тому

    thanks for sharing 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 wish him to live long , good and healthy life🐶

  • @cookiefunfamily6341
    @cookiefunfamily6341 5 років тому +13

    What a good mama!!! Love the Twinks

  • @TiaMarcia173
    @TiaMarcia173 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you for sharing your routine with us. Twinkle twinkle 🤩

  • @anthonym3351
    @anthonym3351 Рік тому +3

    I've loved this video for years and your dedication!! My dog has a murmur for 5 yrs she's 17 now doing great on a mix of supplements and meds. I keep coming back to this video when I look up dogs heart health. So glad twinkie is still going good! I remember watching your videos and feeling so sad for you as you were obviously really sad so am amazed he's still doing great!! Your regimen is similar to mine however I do ubiquinol, Hawthorn and dandelion

  • @Mar-os5nf
    @Mar-os5nf 2 роки тому

    Thank you for your advice and sharing your experience. My baby Dusty was diagnosed last week with CHF and enlarged heart.ty

  • @haraherdigan8566
    @haraherdigan8566 4 роки тому +2

    Thank you for uploading this,
    My 9 year old was diagnosed with CHF 3 days ago.
    My heart is broken, and I am finding it hard to cope and sleep. It has really taken its toll on me, being a mother and running a household.
    Its frightening- Especially the nights he isnt with me (he stays with my dad also to keep him company)
    And the nights he is with me, i try to get him settled and if he cant sleep or has a coughing fit i am up with my boy.
    I am staying hopeful for my boy, he is such a soldier and is still wanting to play and still eating.
    I find comfort in people going through what i am going through.
    Thank you

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +2

      I felt the exact same way when I found out about Twinkie last August. I would stay up late to make sure he is breathing ok and felt a cloud of doom over my head constantly. I had to rush him to the vet a few times when his breathing was heavy and he had his meds adjusted. Then I started looking into suppliments and vitamins and researching everything I could do for him. I would say my best advice would be to not let him know your worried and keep him stress free. There are things you can do besides suppliments and vitamins like changing his diet. There are so many things they can eat that can help CHF. Look up preasure points for CHF and other Chinese medicine. And try not to worry yourself because I have heard of dogs living 4 to 5 years with CHF. Although every case is different. But theres hope. And if your doing everything you can for him then he might do pretty well for a long time. I still worry and pray for Twinkie every day but I try to take it one day at a time. I hope you can start feeling better about the situation and reach out to other people who are going through the same thing like on the congestive heart failure page on fb. I hope this helps a little and good luck with your baby! 🙏

    • @haraherdigan8566
      @haraherdigan8566 4 роки тому

      @@katiekatez84 thank you ❤ these passed two weeks have been a rollercoaster of emotions, stress and acceptance. One day at a time

  • @victorm6176
    @victorm6176 Рік тому

    Great video thanks i am wth you as well my dog has too the same

  • @estheryu2913
    @estheryu2913 2 роки тому

    I know how you feel 🙏 I’m going though same thing with my princess 🤕
    I’m trying my best as well but you really inspired me and thank you 🙏

  • @whodattawkinboutbeatdemsai6157
    @whodattawkinboutbeatdemsai6157 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you so much for your time and wanting to help - so kind of you :) Blessings to you and yours and the doggos

  • @marcmendoza2506
    @marcmendoza2506 3 роки тому +6

    Thank you so much for this! I needed this so badly. ❤️😭

  • @mjcfsutton
    @mjcfsutton 3 роки тому

    Excellent information! Going through the same thing. Found this soooo helpful. Thank you!!.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому

      Your welcome! I’m so glad you found it helpful! ❤️

  • @zazaiowens1407
    @zazaiowens1407 Рік тому +1

    Thanks for this video. I absolutely agree about having water available constantly. I’m going to ask about liquefying my dog’s meds too. I’ll also look into a holistic vet. in conjunction with our regular vet. I love the idea of getting the meds ready on Sunday for the week! Thanks again, and God bless you and your baby! 🙏🏾

  • @OO7RX7
    @OO7RX7 3 роки тому +1

    Thanks for the valuable information. God bless you

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому +1

      Your welcome! I’m glad my videos are helpful ❤️

  • @susanchanalask
    @susanchanalask 4 роки тому +4

    Thanks for the video. Lots of great information, and right on point. I have a little Chihuahua named Lincoln, and we are going through this together too. Lots of love to Twinky!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      Thank you so much! We are all in this together. The support I've gotten from so many people kept us going. It is possible with the right cardiologist, vitamins, suppliments and food. I hope Lincoln will thrive for years to come!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      ua-cam.com/video/xROcFqH8T38/v-deo.html

  • @cindygriffith-allen5601
    @cindygriffith-allen5601 4 роки тому +3

    Thank you so much 🙏🏻
    I’m just going threw this and it’s scary

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      It is very scary. Your not alone, and I never realised how many are going through this until recently. Good luck and I will update everyone with some new info I have soon ❤

  • @SagittariusArcherVaperkitten
    @SagittariusArcherVaperkitten Рік тому +2

    I can so relate to you, my Chihuahua is 18 and was just diagnosed...like you my dog is my baby, he is with me 24 hrs a day he goes everywhere with me. we have been together half my life. His liver is swelled up right now and he is retaining fluid, he is on Pimobendan and cardalis for his heart...Denamarin ( my spelling is bad sorry). I will look into all the supplements you are showing. I pray for all of us who love our babies....hugs to all

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  Рік тому

      Wow 18! Twinkie will be 16 in December. When he started having liver issues he was also on denamarin and I also reduced his meds. Mostly the lasix. His levels went back to normal after that. I never tell anyone to do that without talking to their vet or doing it at their own risk but I feel like he was on to much meds and they were gonna kill him before the CHF. He still is on all his meds just not the amount he used to be because it was making him sick. It’s all about balance, between meds, vitamins, supplements and special care, like a cool calm environment, limited to no exercise and lots of love can do the trick for some. All cases are different so we’ll never really know how long we have with them but it just goes to show that the statistics aren’t always right. Twinkie was given 6 months to a year and it’s been 4 years now since diagnosis. Good luck with your baby and keep me updated if possible ❤️

    • @SagittariusArcherVaperkitten
      @SagittariusArcherVaperkitten Рік тому

      @@katiekatez84 You give me so much hope..I am so glad Twinkie is doing so well. George has been on meds for almost a week and he is doing a bit better. Getting some appetite back and for sure more energy at night. I don't take him for walks but he loves to play with squeeky toys and so it is good to see him back to his puppy-like play sometimes. His tummy is not going down yet and he has a Perianal Adenomas that is pretty large and I fear it will make it hard for him to go to the bathroom. He often seems to strain to go...if any one has suggestions for constipation or the Perianal Adenoma I would appreciate that...The vet and I decided surgery was too risky for him and this is not painful or cancerous so it stays. I am so hopeful but trying to prepare...I love him so much...like we all love our babies...Blessings for us all and our babies...xxoo

  • @ashleychristian8758
    @ashleychristian8758 3 роки тому

    Thank you for making this! My 10 year old Bo-Dach got diagnosed with CHF today

  • @spiritrise7454
    @spiritrise7454 5 місяців тому

    Brilliant idea about the sardines. Thank you

  • @bethfeinstin143
    @bethfeinstin143 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you for this video and the useful information! My girlfriend has a 12 year old dog with CHF, enlarged heart! I forwarded her dog recipe video!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому +2

      Your welcome! I’m so glad my videos were helpful❤️ thank you for sharing 😀

  • @br-ian
    @br-ian Рік тому

    I took my boy Sterling yesterday in for a cough and to my shock the vet said he has a heart murmur 4/4. I just about passed out. Brought him home after scheduling to see a cardiologist for the following week. Last night, his breathing was going crazy. Rapid panting short breaths. All the 24 hour places around me were at max cap. Luckily my vet clinic opens at 7 so rushed him in. They put him in an oxygenated kennel and an injection to help clear fluids from lungs and a sedative. They kept him for 8 hours, took an X-ray and was diagnosed w CHF. His breathing was stabilized by the time I picked him up. Of course that did nothing to stop me from crying all day. Anyway he’s home now. 3 meds: benazepril, furosemide and vetmedin. I still have the appointment with the cardiologist to get the echo gram in 5 days. His resting breathing is much better than last night. (Less than 40 breaths a min). Sterling is 9 and a min poodle shitzu possibly lhasa mix. He’s my sweet sweet boy. He’s not a barker, puts up with his sisters antics (she’s a chihuahua mix 11, and a champ when it comes to getting sick but super annoying but of course I love her too). But he’s just so so sweet and I can’t bear the thought of losing him just yet. I know his prognosis is not great but I had made up my mind that I’m going to fight this to the bitter end, and I just have to say, as someone just staring this journey, your video has given me an extra sprinkle of light on what has been a doom and gloom past couple days. I’ll find out more after the cardiologist visit but whatever the news, I am ready for the battle. Thanks again. I’m sure as many like me, we turn to UA-cam to seek out information from people that are going through this.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  Рік тому +1

      I hope everything went ok at the cardiologist, Twinkie had a 5/5 murmur 5 years ago and he had some episodes too that made me think it was the end but a few medication adjustments, supplements and change of diet made a huge difference he hasn’t coughed in years and he’s been doing great he’s now 16 and a half. I know how scary it is but don’t listen to the statistics, if your doing everything you can then you may have many many more years with your baby so take it one day at a time ❤️

    • @br-ian
      @br-ian Рік тому

      @@katiekatez84 Appreciate the encouragement. As I mentioned earlier, your video dragged me out of the hopelessness I was feeling. We have our cardiologist appointment next Friday. Whatever the prognosis I am ready for the fight. I went back to making his food (beef liver cooked, brown rice, salmon, broccoli, green beans, sweet potato, carrots, sardines, and a splash of Apple cider vin). He’s been taking to his meds well. Breathing normal and healthy, major decrease in cough after he drinks water) and pretty much back to normal. After the specialist checks out his heart we will gear up for the battles ahead. But again, thanks to your video above and your words of encouragement I have a much more positive outlook on his life. I am so happy to hear your little sweet Twinkie beat all the odds and doing so well. 🏅

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  Рік тому +1

      Ok keep me posted if you can! If you haven’t already then you should join the Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs Facebook groups, they are extremely helpful 🙏

    • @br-ian
      @br-ian Рік тому

      @@katiekatez84 So we just got back from our cardio doc and he basically hard confirmed the CHF with Sterling. He added one more med (spironolectone) but also wanted me to decrease his flurosemide. Overall he was glad to see that his meds have been working ever since I took him in for his rapid breathing. So obviously his condition won’t repair back to new but at least I know now that his meds are working and with the dietary and environmental changes we have a fighting chance and hopefully Sterling will be around as long as Twinkie has beyond all the odds.

  • @ValePlace
    @ValePlace 7 місяців тому

    As it was he started to experience the distended abdomen- so we were making weekly pilgrimages for the stomach tap. It was helping alot along w the daily regimen of meds n vitamins- after last Thursdays visit - he exhibited difficultly breathing - it was all downhill from there. He crossed over this morning n im devastated.

  • @seymour5000000
    @seymour5000000 5 років тому +6

    Thank you for this! My chi is 14 and CHF and murmur stage 5. Were on medication too. I’m adding the vitamins on your list and fish. Best wishes to you and baby!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      Hi, how is your baby doing? I just saw this comment now for some reason, I'm sorry for the delay! I hope the new things you have been trying is working. Best wishes to you as well! ❤

  • @lisaloomis72
    @lisaloomis72 3 роки тому +1

    thank you for your post, I adopted a dog who I knew had a heart condition, he is current at the vet, I am hoping he will be all right

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому

      I hope everything turned out ok at the vet! That was so nice of you to adopt him even when you knew his condition ❤️ caring for them properly can put years on their life. Good luck with your new pup! 🙏

  • @dreonthetube
    @dreonthetube 4 роки тому +2

    This video was really helpful...thanks! My 13.5 year old jack russell has just been diagnosed and i've been researching as much as I can the past month and a half. Going to do everything I possibly can to make his old age as comfortable as possible.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      I'm sorry about your baby 😞 I know what your going through and it's so hard to comprehend the reality of it all. It's great you are doing whatever you can to help and I wish you much luck in your journey. ❤

    • @Osky305
      @Osky305 4 роки тому

      What did you gain from your research . You mind sharing everything please

  • @paigehenry8315
    @paigehenry8315 4 роки тому

    Omg its like watching myself. You're baby is so adorable! I'm currently going through the same exact thing. My chihuahua is a rescue who was severely abused and not taken care of at all. He has alot of medical conditions and is also on 5 different meds for the rest of his life. He has heart disease, a heart murmur and has seizures. Hes also overweight. The issue I'm currently having is his teeth. My vet will not put him under because she says he could die but my dogs teeth are horrendous. They are loose and look like they're gonna fall out with the gums and also he has bad plaque build up. My vet says my jax is the only dog shes ever known to have these bad of medical issues all at once. Everyday is so hard so it definitely brings me comfort seeing someone else survive this. Our pets our like our children and we recently just lost our other dog keyloh to cancer. Positive vibes and prayers sent your way and thankyou for sharing your doggys story hes adorable!

    • @paigehenry8315
      @paigehenry8315 4 роки тому

      Oops i typed this way to fast.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      Aww thank you! Twinkies teeth really need a cleaning also he even had an infected tooth a few months ago, when we woke up half his face was swollen. We rushed him to the vet that morning and he was put on antibiotics. It hasn't come back yet but I'm prepared for it to possibly happen again. I wish so much that he can get his teeth cleaned but they wont let him. They said it's way to risky. I'm scared to brush his teeth because I dont want him to swallow bacteria even though that may not matter Im not sure but I think that brushing wouldn't help at this point anyway. I hear theres some natural things we can do for their teeth so I'm looking into that. I also heard about a place that cleans teeth while they are awake but I'm not sure how Twinkie would react to that. He does not like his mouth touched so I can't imagine him letting a stranger scale his teeth while he is awake. I'm so sorry about your other baby who had cancer. That is so sad😭. Good luck with your CHF baby! Sending prayers to him🙏

  • @alexisCalled10
    @alexisCalled10 4 роки тому

    Thank you so much for this video it’s very informative and it’s helping me and my 13year old dachshund chihuahua mix Pheobe she’s my baby 🙏❤️ God bless you and Twinkie

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      Your welcome! Theres so much we can do for our chf babies that the vets dont tell us. Im so glad I was able to help. ❤

    • @alexisCalled10
      @alexisCalled10 4 роки тому

      All Fur Dogs Grooming Salon ❤️

  • @SM-te3xm
    @SM-te3xm 6 місяців тому

    Thank you for your video. Our vet suggested to take my 11 year old dog to a Cardiologist. He got an enlarged heart, fluid and murmur. She started coughing a lot. She was prescribed the same 3 meds that you mentioned. She is my baby and I want her to live longer. I will get her the supplements. Every night I worry that she may not make it with heart failure.

  • @angielilliank.1109
    @angielilliank.1109 Рік тому +1

    Thank you for making this video. I love how loving you are with your baby! Do you give her oxygen treatments at home? If so, what did your vet recommend? My dog was recently diagnosed with left ventricular heart failure. They put her on two of the medications you mentioned. I appreciate the tip about potassium. My dog has had a poor appetite also, but on the medication she at least eats well done scrambled eggs, Hill’s Derm Complete ( A prescription food) and gluten free whole grain bread. I thank G-d every time my dog eats. Every time it is an answer to my prayers. I have been giving her the fu-something medication you mentioned with apple sauce. I want to find a low glycemic alternative but she is allergic to a lot of animal proteins so baby food of chicken or turkey is not possible. My vet said she is not supposed to have legumes, so baby food green peas is out. I might be able to do baby food green beans if she will let me give it to her that way. I love you soul sister. Keep the faith and bravo to you for taking such loving care of your baby.

  • @colibri4676
    @colibri4676 5 років тому +4

    Thank you for sharing all this information!! My dog is going through that!! She caught a lot and feels exhausted!! She gets medicine but her kidneys are now compromised 😢. I didn’t know about sardines!!! I’ll try that and the vitamins

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      If the milk thisle isn't helping the kidneys that great you can also try denamarin. There are lots of suppliments and foods to support liver and kidney health. 🙏

    • @Osky305
      @Osky305 4 роки тому

      @@katiekatez84 like what ????

  • @hellokitty10048
    @hellokitty10048 3 роки тому +1

    My baby Spikey just got diagnosed with CHF he’s 12 years old this video helped me so much and made me feel better thank you so much

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому +1

      I’m so glad my video was helpful! Twinkie is going on 3 years soon. I think the right meds, supplements, vitamins, diet and special care can go a long way. Prayers to your Spikey❤️🙏

  • @SondraGeneral
    @SondraGeneral 2 роки тому

    I am currently going through the same. Your right there is not much info…. My baby has been diagnosed with kidney failure, liver failure and heart failure.
    My lil girl is 14 … she’s my heart. Watching your vid right now, taking notes. Thank you for this video. ❤️❤️❤️

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  2 роки тому

      I’m sorry your going through that with your baby! I recently discovered that lemons can reverse liver damage I just started putting a little bit of lemon juice in Twinkies water. I also give him colloidal silver along with the other supplements and vitamins. Celery is good for the liver and Denamarin helps too or milk thistle. I reduced Twinkie’s meds also because that’s what causes the liver problem in the first place. I’m not saying for you to do that but I felt like it was my only choice. This is now his 3ed year with CHF. Twinkie is 14 also ❤️ thank you for watching my videos I’m glad they helped and keep me posted🙏

  • @RosieDcat
    @RosieDcat 4 роки тому +2

    My baby Chica struggled with this for 2 years, she was on so much medication last week she took a really bad turn and we had to let her go, my heart is broken.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      I'm so sorry for your loss. You must have done so much for her over the past 2 years and even if that sounds like a long time with CHF, no amount of time is enough 😭😭😭

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      Oh no! I'm sorry for your loss😭 2 years is a pretty long time but never long enough. Please hang in there, your not alone

  • @victorm6176
    @victorm6176 Рік тому

    This is true loving your baby like me.

  • @RavenDM
    @RavenDM 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you for this video. I'm going through this with my 15 yo. maltipoo. She was doing great and three weeks ago I took her to the vet because of a bleeding tooth (very bad teeth, just like yours she can't be put under for a cleaning). The vet did some blood work and urine sample and found protein in her urine. Because of this she was put on medication (enalapril), she wasn't on anything before because she wasn't showing any CHF symptoms (like coughing), but we were prepared to get her started on heart medication. Two days ago, I picked her up and she reacted to it. It's silly, but I feel like I triggered something because ever since then she's breathing fast. I took her to the vet and they put her on oxygen for a day and a half, and I picked her up this morning and she's still breathing the same way. I am absolutely devastated because this is the first symptom she's exhibit and I don't know what to do. I feel like I'm going to lose her and it is breaking my heart. She's on enalapril and started pimobendan yesterday. Is there anything your baby is taking that helps with his breathing? Mine doesn't have built up fluid, but the vet thinks it's because of her enlarged heart that her lungs can't fully expand. It was just so sudden that this started that I'm baffled since she's had an enlarged heart for years.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      facebook.com/groups/MightyHeartsMVDCommunity/

    • @RavenDM
      @RavenDM 4 роки тому

      @@katiekatez84 Thank you for your wonderful reply. Your video and reply are giving me hope. I'm just not ready, my baby may be 15 years old, but until now she's always acted like a pup. I will definitely join the group you suggested. Thank you.

  • @amandaj8028
    @amandaj8028 4 роки тому +3

    Watching this trying to prepare myself for the worst. My dog was diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension and shes not breathing very well.. And to be honest i dont have the money to really take to her to the vet. I wish there was a way to make the vet visits less costly. I mean $500 bucks just for a cardiogram, not counting the initial visit or the oxygen tank, or the meds... How do People afford this ???? I feel so helpless right now.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      I know the feeling, its overwhelming and scary! But it might be as simple as a med increase so if you are able to take her to the vet to adjust meds that might be what she needs. Is she on Sildenafil for pulminary hypertention? The last time Twinkie was breathing heavy he got an increase. I have care credit, that's how I pay for a lot of his vet bills when it's an emergency visit. His meds are around 260 for a 2 month supply but you can shop around for a cheaper pharmacy. I hear cosco is cheap. Also try walmart, wedgewood, or walgreens.

  • @chuckcoogler7993
    @chuckcoogler7993 4 роки тому

    Thank you for the video. My Doberman was just diagnosed with heart failure and the vet did not go over any supplements or suggested foods.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      Yea my vet never told me about supliments and vitamins either. They only prescribe meds and holistic is a whole seperate business from vets. I didn't know about them until I did a ton of research and saw a holistic vet and dog nutritionist. I can post the link of my newest video here with the homemade dog food I make for Twinkie. He has improved alot since I started cooking for him and adding ingredients that are good for CHF.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      ua-cam.com/video/xROcFqH8T38/v-deo.html

  • @namelessgrace6319
    @namelessgrace6319 7 місяців тому

    Ive been trying to find any info on congestive heart failure, and all that I'm able to find is just the basics. I appreciate you going so in depth with this. My sister's 11 year old beagle/basset was just diagnosed with this in the emergency. We dont know exactly what the diagnosis is, we know that her heart is enlarged on an xray, and that she did have fluid in her lungs. She was coughing, having issues walking, and lost color in her gums. They have her on 3 different medications, on every 24 hrs, and 2 every 12 hrs. But my sis and I want to do more for her than just medications. So we have to schedule an appointment for our regular doc, but we are thinking of going to a holistic doctor. Is that where you went? And also, should i talk to the doc first before adding any vitamins or products that you listed? I am so new to this, want to give her the best chance. Thank you so much!
    Also, what are your thoughts on an oxygen cage? Sorry so many questions!

  • @thisisgonnahurt2574
    @thisisgonnahurt2574 3 роки тому +4

    life is cruel....alls we can do is live thru it and then die.

  • @nomoretears11356
    @nomoretears11356 2 роки тому +1

    My Tsuki just turned 9 and has been diagnosed with CHF. Totally unexpected. I thought health issues would not show until 14-20yrs. I'm totally sad about this. He's on 2 medications. Lasix and Pimobendan.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  2 роки тому +1

      Yes it’s so unexpected! Twinkie got it at 11 and he didn’t even have signs of it. He’ll be 15 in December ❤️

  • @vha3742171
    @vha3742171 11 місяців тому

    I give my beagle with cfh Q10 and hawthorn and dandelion. It important that your dog on a low sodium diet.

  • @oc706
    @oc706 3 роки тому

    Our dogs are so similar. Mine had perineal hernia surgery nearly two years ago and now he has serious heart problems. I am waiting for a referral to a cardiologist. I hope your boy is still doing well.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому

      Wow! I never met anyone who has a dog with a perineal hernia before. And I meet a lot of dogs since I’m a groomer but I do meet a lot of dogs with CHF and cancer. That’s why I am crazy about what not only my pets eat but myself and family. I hope once you get your baby to the cardio they will get him on the right meds and then you will have a better idea on the right supplements that may fit his needs. Twinkie is still doing ok, he is going on 2 years since diagnosis and almost 14 years old. I take it one day at a time and just do everything I can for him. Good luck with your appointment and I’d love an update on your boys echo. Thanks for reaching out!

  • @oralia2094
    @oralia2094 3 роки тому +1

    Hello! Thank you for this video! Very informational! I appreciate you. I just purchased the Vetri Science supplement also so I’ll be starting him on that soon. I have a couple of questions.. 1. Which omega 3 supplement are you using? I’m having a hard time finding the dose I’d need to give my 6 pound chihuahua. 2. I read the label for the Vetri science and it’s a whole capsule for every 30 lbs. How much of the capsule do you give to your baby? Like I mentioned my dog is only 6 pounds.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому +1

      Hi! I'm so glad my video was helpful! I'm pretty sure I posted the link to the suppliments I use in the description, I will check and copy the link and if it's not there I can give you the link to the one I use on Amazon. Twinkie was also 6 pounds but I actually weighed him today and he's 7 pounds now. The Holistic Vet said I can either give him half a capsule of the vitamins a day or a whole capsule every other day. I hope your baby is doing well! ❤🙏

  • @angielilliank.1109
    @angielilliank.1109 Рік тому

    Hi there! I wanted to share that since I added Dr. Tim’s taurine topper to my dog’s food, she started devouring it. I buy it at chewy’s. Her appetite was very worrisome before that.

  • @celgibson7219
    @celgibson7219 Рік тому

    Great job. I have my 11 yr old now w enlarge heart too under meds:(

    • @standforhumanitariancauses4756
      @standforhumanitariancauses4756 8 місяців тому

      How's your dog doing now? and what kind of medications is he or she taking? when was your dog frist diagnosed? My chihuahua passed away last week.

  • @kimmid.3174
    @kimmid.3174 5 років тому +1

    Thanks for doing this video so very informative. I am going through that right now with one of my chihuahua. I took her to the specialist he put her on meds can’t remember the name it’s the expensive one. How long did it take for your dog to show improvement? I am so glad you listed foods like you said there is no info that I can find and chihuahuas are picky eaters when they are not sick. Your dog is so precious 💖

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  5 років тому

      Thank you so much! Twinkie had improvement right after starting the supplements, vitamins and special diet. He was going to the emergency vet about once a month before then with episodes. Every day is precious and I never know if or when he will have another episode, but I just do everything I can to keep him healthy and happy. I will try to do an updated video after his follow up appointment in May. Good luck with your baby ❤

    • @kimmid.3174
      @kimmid.3174 5 років тому

      All Fur Dogs Grooming Salon I tried the “sardines” and she just loves them. Do you give dog your dog any snacks? I am looking for a healthy option. Where do you purchase your vitamins and supplements? Thank you for the update👍

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  5 років тому +1

      @@kimmid.3174 That is so good your dog likes the sardines! Dogs like stinky things lol you can get the supliments and vitamins on Amazon. The Holistic vet gave me a list of treats that are ok for him to eat but since I can't post a photo of the list in the comments I will write them down and try to send them in a comment later when I get home from work😊

    • @kimmid.3174
      @kimmid.3174 5 років тому

      All Fur Dogs Grooming Salon thank you so much, 💖🐕😀

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  5 років тому +2

      @@kimmid.3174Here is the list of safe treats from my Holistic Vet-
      -Hills Prescription Diet Canine Treats
      -Old Mother Hubbard Assorted Bitz
      -Purina Veterinary Diets Lite Snackers
      -Science Diet Chew with Real Veggies
      -Science Grain Free Treats
      -Science Idea Balance Oven Baked or Soft Baked Naturals
      -Royal Canine Veterinary Diet Dog Treats
      Other Safe Foods-
      Fruit, low sodium canned dog food, salt free peanut butter, home cooked meat, (No lunch meats!) eggs, sardines, chopped meat, Salmon, Turkey.
      I will also post this in my video description. Hope this helps! :)

  • @joeyoung3273
    @joeyoung3273 4 роки тому

    Your an awsome furbaby mom. I'm afraid of pharma meds. So many are not always so good for pets as well as humans. I myself look for alternative hololistic solutions for me and my furbabies. I do use perscription meds when there is no other choice. I adolpted a 13yr, very neglected Chihuauah. Half her curing to better health is to provide her with much love and attention that she so craved and never had before. Her nails had grown into her foot pads. HORRIBLE NEGLECT. She now has a chance to have a more normal life. She appreciates being with her new family here. She gives me tons of kisses and has a smile on her little face. God Bless.

  • @lahirulakmal7634
    @lahirulakmal7634 4 роки тому +3

    Please is vetri science cardio strenth help CHF, and is it safe to use for kidneys

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      Yes that is what I have been giving Twinkie for a year now. I think it is fine for the kidneys, they even make one for kidney health.

  • @tambrasmith4199
    @tambrasmith4199 Рік тому

    Yep .. my baby is 16 YO and has exactly the same thing

    • @tambrasmith4199
      @tambrasmith4199 Рік тому

      She coughs a lot… just like I do … I have asthma and damaged lungs from working at a coal fired power plant

  • @robhughes2193
    @robhughes2193 4 роки тому +8

    I’m six months into this… And I’ve done fairly well for the most part… But lately it’s been really bad for me because I think I’m finally accepting the realities of all this...and its ripping me up. I live alone and regions away from where i grew up, so im not dealing w this well at all...Despite that shes actually doing fairly well on the 3 meds furosimide, enalipril, and vetmedin. Since the diagnosis, No emergency trips to the vet, and havent increased dosage yet...i just feel its coming...
    Fyi I appreciate u guys for doing this, as its already was made so excited by some of the stories of their dogs living much better with much less symptoms for what seems to be additional years on lifeIm excited about trying out these healthier options but,
    - i was wondering if you or anyone else has found a way to put all the pain you may have for the current situation to the side and live your best life w the dog?? How do i get brutal bursts of extreme sadness to go away so that i can enjoy her and work on getting way stronger than i am now...does anyone have any tricks or suggestions that have helped you cope w this effectively? Are there activities that are good for small dogs w chf? Clearly im a mess and all over the map w this right now...if anyone sees and feels like they can help...please do.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +4

      Hi! I replied to your message on my other video but in case you didn't see it I wanted to post it here also-
      I am going through the same thing. The vet gave Twinkie 6 months to a year. In the beginning I could barely sleep at night and the feeling of doom lingered every day and night. It was and is like a nightmare. Even though every new day I have with Twinkie is a celebration the closer it gets to a year, which is this August, I am feeling more and more sad. I did hear of dogs living with CHF for as long as 4 years but Twinkies case is very severe so as much as I wish he can live more years, not knowing is the hardest part. One thing that helped me cope was to reach out to other people going through the same thing. Another is doing as much research as possible and seeing the Holisic Vet helped a lot to. She gave me some hope that with the suppliments and vitamins he can live a longer life. What we feed them is also a big part of keeping them as healthy as possible. I am having a phone meeting with a dog Nutritionist on July 11th and I would love to share with everyone about what I learn from her. When it comes to activities, I don't do any with Twinkie because even a short walk makes him cough and breath heavy. I carry him everywhere and have a strict routine with him that he is used to and routine seems to help. Just remember as sad as you are, your not alone, so reaching out, like you are, may help a little. I myself am going through the same thing so thank you for commenting my video!

    • @528freq8
      @528freq8 4 роки тому

      🙏💓

    • @528freq8
      @528freq8 4 роки тому

      I had to deal with this with my little fella finally he just had trouble breathing and I found a place called gentle goodbyes that put them to sleep in his favorite Park. The odd thing is I think we carry a lot of their pain through empathy. When my little boy passed away all the pain left my body

    • @biorythmicshifter
      @biorythmicshifter 3 роки тому +1

      You are not alone in how you feel, that has been my biggest help just knowing that fact. Nothing can take away the inevitable pain...it’s just hard. My heart is with you on this my bro.

    • @robhughes2193
      @robhughes2193 3 роки тому

      BiorythmicShifter -W- thanks for that man...means alot. Been a year since that time and it still hurts...but support like yours helps a ton.

  • @sunnyw4040
    @sunnyw4040 4 роки тому +2

    Thank you so much for your video

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +2

      If you are able to find a cardiologist that would be your best bet. They need to do an echocardiogram to see exactly what's going on in there and then they can prescribe the necessary medications. Most of the time the meds need to be adjusted over time. I have another video with some more recipes and foods that can help with CHF. I will attach it here in case you would like to see it. Good luck with your baby!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      ua-cam.com/video/xROcFqH8T38/v-deo.html

    • @sunnyw4040
      @sunnyw4040 4 роки тому +1

      @@katiekatez84 The vet had started him on Vetmedin. 1.25mg. The 50 count bottle is $50. My vet ended up calling his wife, who is an ER Vet. She said to give this particular medicine. He says she works with the cardiologists, internists, and other specialists etc, all day long since they are ER vets. She said this has the least side effects of other organ damage/strain. He said there are other meds, but not so great. This causes the heart to contract better/stronger.
      I also made home made diet yesterday morning and started my dog on that. I need to get the extra supplements.
      The vet wants me to up the lasix to every 12 hours instead of 24.
      So yesterday, my dog had the homemade food. The new med. Lasix. I added some extra vitamins.
      I would say his coughing is reduced at least 50% or more!!! I can't believe it.
      I did too many things all at once yesterday. I don't know what is helping. The food. The meds. The vitamins. I have no idea. I don't care. I just see my baby as much more comfortable and not nearly struggling as much

    • @britishchickinusa
      @britishchickinusa 3 роки тому

      take him to a animal emergency, sometimes its better there are multiple vets and they r used to dealing w real emergencies, my animal er diagnosed my dog w enlarged heart and is on meds now, his cardi came from there,,

  • @hgclarke25
    @hgclarke25 Рік тому

    My fur baby got diagnosed in March 2020. This video touched on everything! I recommend liquid meds. I have the meds compounded by a specialty pharmacy

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  Рік тому

      Twinkies meds are liquid compounded also and it’s so much better that way! I hope your baby is doing well ❤️

  • @colibri4676
    @colibri4676 5 років тому +1

    Si what is the name of the vitamins you got please????

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      The Vitamin is called Vetri Science Cardio Strength and you can order it on Amazon. They have all different types of Vitamins for dogs even a multi vitamin that you can put in home cooked meals for your dogs.

  • @chockpea
    @chockpea 4 роки тому +2

    Do you have a video on how you found out he was sick, what the symptoms and signs were?

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      Hi! I found out from going to a routine vet visit and to set up a teeth cleaning. When they checked his heart he had a murmur. 5 out of 6. Then he had an echocardiogram from a cardiologist and that's when I found out how severe it was. It was a 6 out of 6, leaking valves, enlarged heart and pulmonary hypertension.

  • @brown_and_curly_ne_girly4551
    @brown_and_curly_ne_girly4551 4 роки тому +1

    My dog just got diagnosed....

  • @elenabenton83
    @elenabenton83 Рік тому

    Thank you soooo much! My girl was just diagnosed with heart murmur so we are just getting started on our journey together. Did your baby have weird side effects when he took his pimobendan?

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  Рік тому +2

      Hi! Twinkie hasn’t had any side effects to any of his meds except the lasix which was making him sick and made his BUN levels high. He was put on denamarin and decreased his lasix and he was better after that. Sometimes the meds can harm our dogs worse then the heart failure so to me it’s all about balance, between supplements, vitamins a special diet and meds, of course talk to your vet before making any changes but if you do suspect a bad side effect they may need to adjust his meds which we had to do with Twinkie several times before getting him fully stable. This month marks 4 years since diagnosis and he will be 16 this December. Good luck on your journey, CHF in dogs is very common and you are not alone! It is manageable for many years for many dogs. Twinkie was given 6 months to a year and he’s going on 4, only shows the statistics aren’t always right!❤️

  • @ithinkso5751
    @ithinkso5751 3 роки тому

    Hello! Thank you so much for making this video. My chihuahua that is also 12 years old and so dear to my heart has been hacking and coughing for over a year now. Last night he got pretty bad I took him to the vet only to find he has a heart murmur! They didn’t really say anything else beside give him the three meds they prescribed. So does a heart murmur mean he has congestive heart failure? They also didn’t tell me the grade of the heart murmur. But this video has been so informative, I’m going to try to be really proactive and use these supplements and change his diet, I love him so much... i don’t want him to be in pain :(. I don’t have much $$ but you giving all this advice really helps. Has your dog been doing okay this past year?

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому +1

      Hello! I’m so glad my videos were helpful❤️ I would recommend getting an echocardiogram done to see what’s going on exactly. Twinkie is still here, he was diagnosed 2 years and 3 months ago. Good luck with your baby and I wouldn’t worry until you see if it’s just a murmur. Let me know how everything is going when you get a chance 🙂

    • @ithinkso5751
      @ithinkso5751 3 роки тому

      @@katiekatez84 Good news is he has gotten a lot better :) and I was able to find out his cough was due to tracheal collapse because his heart was pressing on his lungs (I think that’s what the vet said). I got the vetri science vitamin and throat gold for his cough :) he is doing so much better but I think a lot of your tips really helped too. The sardines, making him food, and just everything. I haven’t bought the supplements because I don’t have a lot of money 💰, but maybe soon. He’s acting like himself! I’m so glad Twinkie is doing well. Thanks for everything 💙

  • @ppppppppppp3675
    @ppppppppppp3675 2 роки тому

    See my holistic vet wont give me anything until he has diagnostic tests done. Did yours have tests?? I like your style wasnt just gonna give up on him just cause he was old. If I just got the supplements do you think that would help??

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  Рік тому

      Yes, the holistic vet needed a diagnosis first. But you can just order the supplements online if you need them ASAP. With Twinkie he needs meds and supplements but every dog is different. Dandelion rout can sometimes be used as a lasix replacement but that’s something I would talk to a holistic vet about first. In Twinkies case he needs all 5 meds or I don’t think just the supplements will work but I never tried it so I don’t know. Thank you so much, no I couldn’t even imagine losing him in the 6 months they gave him, going on 4 years this August 😊🙏❤️

  • @britybearx3
    @britybearx3 Рік тому

    my little 10 year old toy poodle was just diagnosed with CHF. stage 5 heart murmur. i’m developing. she’s on 3 different medications and we’re hoping she can go a while longer :(

  • @rebeccasemmens2389
    @rebeccasemmens2389 4 роки тому

    Has the new diet worked for your fur baby? My cavalier king charles who's only 7 has CHF and been given 6 months. The vet told me to feed him whatever he wants but I'll do anything for extra time with him x

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      I believe Twinkies new diet is helping. I know things can change so quickly, but since I posted my videos he is still doing good so far. With 2 minor setbacks. A tooth ache and slightly high kidney levels. I'm pretty sure thats from the lasix. I reduced it to once a day. I also put him on a kidney food called Dr. Harvey, along with his regular diet. I will attach the link here. Also check out my Homemade Dog Food for CHF video if you haven't already and would like to see all of the foods I give Twinkie. I know of dogs living as long as 5 and 6 years with CHF. Good luck with your heart baby and thank you for the comment ❤
      www.drharveys.com/products/dogs/1-canine-health-miracle-dog-food/help-your-dog-with-kidney-problems#&gid=1&pid=1

  • @BrokerKaren
    @BrokerKaren 5 років тому +4

    I feel so badly for you and your dog. I’ve been deal with CHF for almost 2 years with my dog. I cook all of my dog’s food and I use fresh meats, fresh fruits and vegetables and no salt! The lasix is so hard on the kidneys. When Belle starts to get lethargic I cut back a little on that med. the vetmedin alone worked for 18 months but when she started coughing the vet added lasix. It’s a balancing act coughing vs kidneys. Good luck it’s so tough for these sweeties.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  5 років тому +1

      Thank you so much! It is definitely a roller coaster ride:( That is great that you give Belle home cooked healthy meals. It's definitely all about balance. Twinkie has a follow up appointment in May. I might try to do an updated video after that. Good luck with your baby!

    • @cindygriffith-allen5601
      @cindygriffith-allen5601 4 роки тому +1

      How do you make the dog food ??

    • @BrokerKaren
      @BrokerKaren 4 роки тому

      I grill chicken thighs then finish cooking it in a crock pot with some grains and vegetables. The grilling gets rid of a lot of the fat and hopefully adds more flavor. Belle loves carrots, broccoli, yams, pumpkin, blueberries, apples and bananas so I add those in before serving. I usually only add 1 fruit so I change that up often. I also put in a squirt of fish oil.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +2

      @@BrokerKaren that's awesome! I started cooking for my dogs also and tomorrow I'm going to get all the ingredients the dog nutritionist suggested and I'm going to make a bunch and freeze some of it so that I have a weeks worth.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      @@cindygriffith-allen5601 I started cooking a special diet going by some of the ingredients the dog nutritionist recommended and she aproved my recipes that I came up with. I am going to post a new video soon of the 3 recipes I make him and he loves them all! And now all my dogs eat it every day. I will also include who the nutritionist is and her contact info in case anyone is interested in speaking with her. She is wonderful!

  • @a.g.3412
    @a.g.3412 2 роки тому

    Hello There!
    Can you tell me if these supplements are safe with vetmedin, Lasix and benazapril. My almost 13 year old Italian greyhound, love of my life is now in CHF from mitral valve disease. He was just started on Lasix 20 mg twice daily.
    Last week was hard, he passed out badly...after having a cough. This happened twice in 1 week. I thought he was going to die. He does certain movements, then gets this cough that sounds like he has no air coming through. Then he will wobble and collapse on the floor, head back, arms extended. Its terrible! He's not breathing and do you know if they still have a pulse..???
    It takes about 1 minute for him to wake up..his tongue is blue..
    I elevate his legs and go nuts and until he awakes.. not knowing if he will? What is causing the cough?? The cardiologist said water in the lungs but I think it's the big heart compressing on his trachea. Has your baby had these terrible syncope episodes? Can he die during one?
    Hes been on Lasix for about 4 days and coughing has dramatically reduced.
    Please let me know your thoughts!

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  2 роки тому

      Hi! Twinkie was fainting too (syncope) I know how scary it is, the first time I thought he was choking on food, the second time I thought he died! Then he woke up in less then a minute. Now he’s on sildinafil for it and it has helped so much! The lasix was making Twinkie sick so I reduced it and he eats much better now and hasn’t been sick since. If the lasix does effect your dogs liver ask about Denamarin, it reversed Twinkies liver problems that he got from the meds. I also use cardio-plus by standard process and vetri science cardio strength vitamins. There’s a supplement called young at heart and that one I’ve heard can be bad mixed with vetmedin but I only give it to Twinkie sometimes and not at the same time as his meds and I’ve heard of other people doing the same so that one is up to you. I made a few other videos about food and supplements that you can check out in case I forgot anything in this comment. Please let me know how you guys are doing and ask your vet about the Sildenafil for fainting! I’m not sure why they haven’t mentioned it to you. If you didn’t already, join the congestive heart failure in dogs Facebook page. There’s tons of support and advice on there. Good luck with your baby’s CHF journey ❤️ Twinkie just turned 15, he was given around 6 months to live and he’s going on 4 years 🙏

  • @rosewood513
    @rosewood513 3 роки тому

    Try giving your boy Taurine, it is for strengthening his heart. Yes the sardines are great they have lots of Taurine. Blessings...

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому

      Thank you for the suggestion! I believe taurine is in the Vetri Science Cardio Strength Vitamins. Sardines are his favorite! 🐟 thanks again💕

  • @heartsXkisses24
    @heartsXkisses24 3 роки тому

    Did you ever notice anything unusual before the vet visit? I hope you and your pup are still doing great

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому +1

      Hi! He did hack occasionally and once he fainted but I thought he was choking on food because it was while he was eating. I wouldn't have ever thought of syncope at the time. Twinkie is still here going on 2 years!❤

  • @izumi3574
    @izumi3574 4 роки тому +1

    My baby, a 4years old Great Dane is showing some chf symptoms and the vets in India especially in our state is shit. They took everything so lightly. I'm so worried. This video will help alot if only we could have those supplements available. I feel so helpless for my baby!!! I wish those were available in my state. This feels like shit. Also, i hope you're both happy and recover. I pray we go a long way too... God bless all dog owners who have dogs with chf.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      Great Danes are one of my favorite dogs. I'm so sorry about your baby. It sucks you can't use suppliments where you are. You can supliment the supliments with certain foods though. I will post the link of my video about food for chf in case you haven't seen it. I hope it helps! Good luck with your wonderful Dane and stay well.

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому +1

      ua-cam.com/video/xROcFqH8T38/v-deo.html

    • @izumi3574
      @izumi3574 4 роки тому

      @@katiekatez84 thank you so much ma'am

  • @cookiefunfamily6341
    @cookiefunfamily6341 5 років тому

    How do you feel about water fountains?

    • @cookiefunfamily6341
      @cookiefunfamily6341 5 років тому

      I have a catmatewater fountain and the free flowing water attracts them more than the bowls I've noticed. It comes with a charcoal filter you have to replace basically monthly...

  • @larebearh1071
    @larebearh1071 4 роки тому

    My friends schnauzer was diagnosed with CHF and I am helping her research a bit. Lulu started enalapril, pimobendan, and lasix three days ago. The last couple of days she had started vomiting a few hours after taking her medicine. Did you experience this or has anyone else?

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  4 роки тому

      Twinkie did throw up a couple times. Sometimes the meds can upset their stomachs. And sometimes they need a med adjustment. If one particular med is causing this they can switch to another medication like from lasix to spironolactone. Please let me know how she is doing.

  • @ppppppppppp3675
    @ppppppppppp3675 2 роки тому +1

    Hi he has started to develop cough. Can you suggest some supplement for cough. Yorkie 12 years old.

    • @cvsmiss7578
      @cvsmiss7578 2 роки тому

      Hydrocodone for the cough worked for my dog. She’s a chihuahua

  • @yennylovesgd
    @yennylovesgd 4 роки тому

    Good morning.
    I'm sorry to bother you. My dog hasnt been feeling well and it's been making me feel really sad because I really want her to be as comfortable as I can make her. Shes been having a terrible cough and its because she has fluids and it's the exact condition as your dog is in. 6/6 murmur. She has seizures as well.
    The veterinarian hasnt been very supportive and basically wanted me to put her down because she believes it's a hassle. I would never do that to my pet if I am capable of taking care of her. I wasnt even informed that I can give my dog vitamins to help her with all the medication shes taking.
    I'll be taking her to another veterinarian for a second opinion and see if I can give her a different kind of medication.
    I've been told that dogs with her condition can live longer if you take care of them. I just wish I would've had a supportive doctor who wouldve informed me of this.
    I am just really worried & hoping I can find alternatives and better support.
    Would you mind telling me where i can buy the can of not salted sardines? I am scared to buy the wrong kind. I am trying to find better diet alternatives for her but I feel so misinformed. If possible would you be able to email tips of what I can feed her? I know that dry food tends to have a lot of sodium and I should avoid that as well.
    My email is yennylv@yahoo.com

  • @jamie615
    @jamie615 2 роки тому

    hi did he have the dental?

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  2 роки тому

      No he wasn’t able to but I have antibiotics in case he has another abscess which so far he hasn’t in almost a year 🙏

  • @lacey7569
    @lacey7569 3 роки тому

    Hi, Thank you so much for this video.
    I just found out last week that my 9 year old fur baby has CHF and nodules in her lung, possibly cancer. I am so heart broken. She is on 3 pills plus a couple of liquid meds and an appetite stimulator. She will drink water, but will not eat. Today is the 7th day that she hasn't eat. How long has your fur baby gone without eating? I'm going to try baby food and sardines today. Are there any brands of sardines that you prefer? Also when syringe feeding meds, what flavor of baby food do you use?
    Thank you again for sharing your story.
    Best wishes to you and your fur babies. 💕
    Lacey

    • @katiekatez84
      @katiekatez84  3 роки тому +1

      Lacey Stephens oh no your poor baby, I hope by now she is eating! When Twinkie refused to eat I realized it was the lasix making him sick so I talked to his vet about reducing his dosage. He’s been doing a lot better since. The meds can kill our baby’s faster then the disease if we don’t monitor their liver and kidney levels carefully and adjust meds accordingly. The sardines are salt free in water and boneless I have to go check the brand and will let you know. I used chicken baby food when I syringed him his meds but now he’s on liquid meds which is a game changer. Makes life much easier! Let me know how your baby is doing, I hope she is feeling better 🙏💖

    • @lacey7569
      @lacey7569 3 роки тому +1

      @@katiekatez84
      Our baby was so sick, we tried everything to save her. On our vet visit before last, her lungs were much better so they took her off of Lasix and 2 other meds. I found the sardines that you used. She refused to try anything, so we ended up having to syringe feed. Nothing was improving even with taking her off of the meds that were no longer needed. She was completely miserable and we had to let her go. Worst day of my life. I miss my baby but I know that she is free and no longer suffering. Thank you so much for your response and for bringing awareness to CHF in our fur babies. I wish you and your babies all the best. 💕