Hi Jim,

This is pretty typical.  I’m not surprised the Clavamox didn’t work.  It was a good idea to use it though in case there was any infection contributing to the problem.

Collapsing trachea is extremely common in these dogs. It can be diagnosed on a X-ray but they have to be taken at the right moment while the dog is actively inhaling.  I usually have to sedate a dog just slightly to make them breath slowly and deeply in order to snap the X-ray at the right moment.

I like using Hycodan for this diagnosis.  From what I understand, the best thing to use is something called ‘tracheal eilxir’ which is a liquid mixture of a few drugs. Other medications are considered but have varying degrees of success. And of course there is a very expensive surgery where they place a stent over the collapsed area to prevent it from further narrowing.

All the best.

Dr. Clayton Greenway