Ask A Scientist© Veterinary Topics Archive

name         Charlene D.
status       other
age          60s

Question -   My 11-year old female (spayed) golden retriever has
recently and completely lost her hearing.  She has adjusted to that, but
also is now panting heavily.  Could this be a nervous reaction on her
part due to the fact that she can no longer hear?  When she pants, it is
not because of heat or strenuous activity.  She's usually laying on the
cool tile floor in an air conditioned house.  Could this be a signal that
something else is failing in her system, such as kidneys?  Thank you for
any insight you can give me.....the local vets have been no help.
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It is hard to believe that the local vets have been no help. It could be
anything from Congestive Heart Failure to a primary lung problem. Did they
take Xrays?  Did they do an EKG? Blood tests?

I can only suggest that you find a vet who is willing to dig deep enough to
find the answer. Nobody can make a diagnosis without seeing the dog.

Phillip
DVM
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