13-Year-Old Jack Russell With an Enlarged Heart and Fluid in the Lungs

Many dogs with heart failure from valve disease, the most common cause in small breeds, do well for months to a year or more on medication, and a lively dog with a good appetite is a good sign. The echocardiogram will show the cause and help your vet choose treatment, which usually includes a diuretic to clear the fluid and pimobendan.

Count her breathing while she's asleep each day; a rate that stays above 30 breaths a minute means the fluid may be coming back. Keep walks gentle, avoid salty treats, and call your vet if the cough gets worse or she struggles to breathe.

See congestive heart failure in dogs for more.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.