Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 3/5/2009

Question
Hello,
I have a 6 mo old Westie.  When she was 3 mos the vet noticed she had a mild heart murmur.  She has always had a strange pant, or at least what we thought was a pant, but now it seems more like she is trying to catch her breath.  Also, we have begun to notice that after getting excited she will begin trying to catch her breath and then her legs seem to go out.  She will tumble and then lay down, like shes having a hard time catching her breath.  She has never been able to go on long walks because she cannot walk very fast and seems to tire easily.  Is it possible that her heart murmur has become worse?

Answer
Erika -

There is certainly the possibility that the heart murmur has  become worse; there are also other factors that can contribute to your dog's apparent decline in health.   Have your dog examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.  Westies have a breed predilection for certain genetic diseases; talk to your veterinarian and let him/her help you to determine why your pet is exhibiting exercise intolerace.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM