Quality of life for dog with severe congestive heart failure

Our dog has been diagnosed with severe congestive heart failure what is the prognosis for any kind of qualithy of life? The congestive heart condition was rated about a 5 on a scale from 1-6.

  • Vetinfo

    By: Erika Raines El Segundo, CA

    Replied on 04/19/2011

    Your dog's prognosis really depends on how well he or she responds to medical management. Even very severe cases of congestive heart failure may respond well to management with medications for a short time. These medications can help to increase the pumping strength and efficiency of the heart as well as to help drain fluid from his or her body which will help control signs of coughing or abdominal distension associated with heart failure. Your dog will probably not be able to be very active and live a playful sort of lifestyle anymore, but he or she could have at least a month or two of very good quality life remaining with appropriate management. Your veterinarian can give you a better idea of your dog's specific case. Erika, DVM

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