Need advise

[IzzaBoo]

Hey guys I just need some advise. I just got a new 10 week old pup and took her in for her first vet visit. She had been in at 8 weeks and was said to be healthy according to the breeder. I took her in and the vet looked into her ears, mouth, then listend to her. She said has a 3-4 grade murmur and I should probably see a cardiologist. That was to end of the visit she didn't even finish the exam. This was very devestating to me. I have a health guarantee, but am already much to in love to return her. Now after much reading on the net I have seen in numerous locations that boxer pups can have murmurs up to 16weeks. I want to do what is best for her, but will I do harm if i give it some more time? The cardiac work-up is $500. She acts very appropriate runs around like a crazy and hopping like a bunny. She stays very pink (paws and mouth). Does anyone have any experience with this or advise? Please help!

 

[ChristyA]

Hey guys I just need some advise. I just got a new 10 week old pup and took her in for her first vet visit. She had been in at 8 weeks and was said to be healthy according to the breeder. I took her in and the vet looked into her ears, mouth, then listend to her. She said has a 3-4 grade murmur and I should probably see a cardiologist. That was to end of the visit she didn't even finish the exam. This was very devestating to me. I have a health guarantee, but am already much to in love to return her. Now after much reading on the net I have seen in numerous locations that boxer pups can have murmurs up to 16weeks. I want to do what is best for her, but will I do harm if i give it some more time? The cardiac work-up is $500. She acts very appropriate runs around like a crazy and hopping like a bunny. She stays very pink (paws and mouth). Does anyone have any experience with this or advise? Please help!

I don't have any experience with this, however I would go to a different vet and get a second opinion. I was going to a vet that kept telling me "they are boxers you know they have so many problems" like he expected them to keel over every time I went in for just a check up. Now I go to a vet that doesn't say that, he tells me they have good strong bodies even though they are 9 and once we get Dexter's cushing's disease under control there is no reason they can't continue to live good lives.

My advice is to seek a 2nd opinion.
Goodluck, these boxer's steal your heart fast.

 

[gmacleod]

I think the first thing you should do is talk to the breeder. They're probably not obligated to give you any (financial) help with this, but it's worth knowing how they're prepared to handle it anyway. Then at least you know which decisions you're making.

As for a cardiologist, yes, that is definitely something you need. A standard vet isn't qualified, nor usually has the right equipment, for diagnosing heart conditions. Doesn't mean they can't hear murmurs! Just that they can't really tell you what the problem is and how serious it is. Having said that, an ideal time to visit a cardiologist would probably be a little further down the track. As you've noted, murmurs aren't that uncommon in young puppies and don't necessarily signify serious problems. Many just disappear with a little more maturity. But those are usually more minor, grade 1-2 murmurs. IF your vet is correct placing it nearer grades 3 or 4, then the risk that there actually is a problem is somewhat higher. Of course, the only thing done any harm by an early cardiologist visit is your wallet, so if you're happy to go ahead now then it's no bad idea to do so.

 

[IzzaBoo]

Thanks

Thanks! I was really wanting to wait a bit longer. I also am thinking of switching vets. I went to one closer to my new home, but really like a different one a bit further away. I think I will start with the second opinion from him first. I have contacted the breeder and she says they do not have a history of heart issues. She has been very supportive thus far. I work with preemies who have murmurs and I do know a bit about them. I keep listening to her here at home and keeping a close eye on her. Thanks for the support I am new to this and you all seem to have such great advice!