St. Bernard panting a lot

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St. Bernard panting a lot

Posted : 7/4/2013 6:48:25 PM

So, this is a question about a friend's st. bernard. (baxter). In AZ he lives, where its VERY hot... but he does stay inside. (unless he has to go to the bathroom, of course). but my friends grandmother is concerned about him panting too much, even when he is inside. She grooms him reguarly, but he still sheds. she has considered shaving him, but i know that is a HORRIBLE idea, considering living in az, he couls get sunburt so easily.. but what about a haircut? would that be just as bad? he seems to be fine, but my friends grandma is worried... should she be worried? thank you :D

calliecritturs

Posted : 7/4/2013 10:17:08 PM

Hi Meagan!! How are you!!!

She's right to be concerned -- it's time for a vet visit. There are different types of panting -- there is an "I'm too hot" pant, but there is also other things that can make it a "not good" pant.

If the heart isn't working well and getting blood to circulate well, THAT creates panting. It's often missed - and it can be deadly if a vet can't see the dog -- often they need to do a heart workup which most vets can do right in their office, and then they send the information right over the telephone to a cardiologist (like at a vet school) who reads the results for them.

If there is some sort of internal infection -- that inflammation caused by an infection can also create "heat" inside which results in panting.

She's right to be concerned -- it's time for a vet visit.

Hope all is ok with you and yours!!!

lakalakadaka16

Posted : 7/5/2013 6:45:43 PM

Hi! I am fine, thank you, and I have been away from my babies for about a month (vacation), but from what I have heard they are doing fine! :D And thank you for your advice, she can't afford to take him to the vet, is the problem... he seems fine, eats well, has energy, isn't overweight, just pants a lot. He hasn't done it as much the past few days, so that's good. But I will mention a vet visit! Thank you!