Enlarged Heart and Irregular Heartrate

by Jillene
(Grandforks B.C)

I had all the tests done for Teva. She is nine years old and has lost a lot of weight. She has hot spots she has never had them before. She is not eating much. She is sleeping a lot and just not looking good.

My vet ran a full panel of blood work it came back fine. We also did xrays and an ultrasound. That showed that Teva's heart is very large for her age. Also, her heartrate is irregular.

Teva still loves to go to work with me and ride in the truck. The vet told me she may one day go to sleep and not wake up. My vet and I dont think she is in pain but she just doesn't understand why she feels the way she does.

I would love any feedback from anyone that has had to deal with this before. I am taking Teva in for an xray once a month to see how much and how fast her heart is growing.

I honestly think something else is going on that we are missing. I have a great vet and totally trust her but Teva has gone downhill in the last month and it could just be her heart. I just worry. Thank you for listening.


Response from Golden Retriever Magic:

Although Teva is not doing so well right now, I can say that she truly has a wonderful owner in you! You have done a remarkable job in trying to uncover what is going on with Teva.

If you trust your vet, go with her suggestions. She likely has had a lot of experience and has seen hundreds and even thousands of Goldens--some which may have gone through ailments similar to Teva's.

The labs being normal is good news but unfortunately the enlarged heart and the irregular heartbeat are not good signs, especially in a Golden of Teva's age.

I am very happy to hear that despite her ailments, Teva does not seem to be in pain and is enjoying riding in your truck. Just being with you and enjoying time with you means a lot to her. It's therapy for her that no medication could provide!