Dear Dr. John,

Our 16-year-old neutered Doodle has a heart condition for which he takes Pimobendan and for the last year has been taking a thyroid supplement due to his being hypothyroid. We just had his annual physical exam and things, while stable, still leave us wondering about how much time he has left. Does the thyroid worsen over time as he has been more tired lately or is that due to his heart? He has been seeing a cardiology specialist for some time, but nothing seems much different. He also has had a persistent hacking cough which we are told is a collapsing trachea. We want to know if there is anything more that we could be doing for him. B.M.

Dear B.M.,

Hypothyroidism is a condition typically seen in middle-aged to older dogs manifested by lethargy, a tired affect, weight gain, poor dull hair coat, slower heart rate, and a propensity for skin and ear infections as you had noted. Sometimes an increase in water consumption and urination is also seen. Diagnosis is simply done by blood test and regular rechecks are needed to assess thyroid hormone levels in case adjustments are needed. I suggest that you should have the thyroid values checked every six months. Perhaps it was just done at his recheck. I do not think that the three primary issues that you have mentioned are related in any way. I also think it would be helpful to have the cardiologist see him regularly as either additional or different cardiac medications might be needed as things do change with age and time.

Sixteen is an old age for your dog’s breed and given the advanced age, more frequent exams and blood tests will allow for a more accurate prognosis as to overall health and lifespan. Since you note that he has been more tired lately, this could be due to either a need for a thyroid medication adjustment or need for a cardiac reevaluation. It could also simply be that he is just older! It sounds as if you are doing all that you can to keep him healthy, comfortable, and alive. Good luck.

Dr. John de Jong is President of the World Veterinary Association. He owns and operates the Boston Mobile Veterinary Clinic and can be reached at 781-899-9994.