| A shih tzu that displays a fit of coughing, | | | | something more serious. If closing the |
| sneezing or snorting and who may appear | | | | nostrils and swallowing corrects it, this is |
| unable to breathe could actually have a very | | | | probably what it is. |
| minor diagnosis of: Inspiratory Dyspnea. This | | | | |
| is not Kennel Cough and should not be | | | | Always report the problem to your vet and |
| mistaken for it. This has to do with the | | | | tell him what you did when the attack occurs |
| physical structure of the shih tzu, and the | | | | to be absolutely sure the "reverse sneeze" is |
| incomplete closure of the nasopharnyx (above | | | | the proper diagnosis for your particular shih |
| the soft palate). It is Inspiratory Dyspnea, | | | | tzu. |
| commonly referred to as "reverse sneezing," | | | | |
| or a type of air hunger. | | | | If it happens when you are not home, don't |
| | | | worry, they can and do recover without your |
| Swallowing will help stop the attack. | | | | assistance to help them swallow. If you do |
| | | | find this procedure helps your shih tzu, they |
| So how can I help my shih tzu swallow during | | | | may learn to run to you (when you are |
| these attacks? | | | | home)for help. |
| | | | |
| The easiest way to make a dog swallow is | | | | There are many serious health problems that |
| place your thumb or fingers over the nostril | | | | can cause coughing, congestive heart |
| openings and rub the throat area, and | | | | failures, pulmonary disease, kennel cough |
| slightly open the mouth. This should cause a | | | | etc., so make sure the cause of the cough is |
| relief almost immediately. It is important | | | | this inspiratory dyspnea and not something |
| that you understand whether or not the | | | | more serious by always reporting the problem |
| "reverse sneeze" is the problem and not | | | | to your vet for further evaluations. |