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