Find What You Are Looking For Here
FYI: If you make a purchase via a link on this site, I may receive a commission from various affiliate programs, and as an Amazon Associate and Chewy affiliate I also earn commissions from qualifying purchases—at NO extra cost to you. See the Disclosure page for more information. Thank you!
Guide To Australian Shepherd Training & Care

Old Aussie Is Hacking, Always Thirsty


Rudi is 12 y/o, and lately he has begun to hack like he's trying to clear his throat whenever he exerts himself the least little bit. And he's almost constantly thirsty. I'm on a very tight budget lately, and the vet is a bill I just can't afford.

Comments for Old Aussie Is Hacking, Always Thirsty

Click here to add your own comments

I would be concerned
by: Anonymous

because of his age, I would recommend you take him to the vet, that doesn't good. maybe you can pay on installments

Hacky/thirsty Older Aussie
by: Anne Calmes

I hate to tell you this but you NEED to take your dog to the vet.
It could be a number of things, Do you have him on Heartworm preventative? if not could be Heartworms.
It could be congestive heart failure.
It could be cancer, or numerous other health issues....the thirst may be diabetes...yes dogs can get diabetes.
The only way to help your aussie is to find out what it is by the Vet.
I hope you can find the extra funds to take your aussie
Anne Calmes
http://www.goldringkennel.com/
NELSON

Aging Aussie
by: Nonnie

I understand your hesitation and not being able to afford a large vet bill. Check the internet for low-cost vets in your area or call your local SPCA to see if they can recommend someone who will work with you. Sometimes you can find vet training schools that will treat animals at little or no cost.

It does sound like something serious, but could very well be treatable.

I wish you the best.

Hacking
by: Anonymous

Could be heartworm - I hope not.

Sick Pet
by: Debbie

Call your local SPCA. A lot of them now have medical care which is very reasonable. I just recently lost a maltese. It was so sad. He had lymphoma. Please don't let your dog suffer. Take him for medical attention.
Good Luck.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Australian Shepherd Q & A.

Australian-Shepherd-Lovers.com icon

Guide To Australian Shepherd Training & Care

Have Dog Training Questions?

Check out these introductory dog training videos...

I want my dog to stop being aggressive.

I want some help training my new puppy.

I want my dog to stop barking at everything.

I want my dog to walk nicely and calmly on the leash.

I want my dog to listen and come every time I call!