Monitoring
One thing that you can do at home that can really help you and your vet to assess how your dog is doing on their heart disease journey is to measure the Sleeping Respiratory Rate (SRR).
Monitoring SRR
What is the Sleeping Respiratory Rate (SRR)?
The Sleeping Respiratory Rate is the number of breaths your dog takes in a minute whilst they are asleep. We recommend measuring it when asleep as they are nice and relaxed (unless they are in the middle of a dream). This gives a reliable indication if there is any fluid accumulating in their lungs due to their heart disease.
Why should I measure the SRR?
Measuring the Sleeping Respiratory Rate of dogs with heart disease is a useful way to determine the onset of Stage C – heart failure. As fluid begins to build up in a dog’s lungs due to progression of their heart condition their SRR increases. Also measuring the SRR of dogs throughout Stage C allows us to identify when they need a check up as a rising SRR means they may need a change in their treatment.
When to take action:
A SRR that is increasing over time and/or a SRR that is greater than 30 breaths per minute. Both of these can indicate that their heart disease may be progressing and is affecting your dog’s ability to breathe. If these are noted it’s best to contact your vet for advice.
You can count the SRR of your dog at home. Just click on the button to download your Sleeping Respiratory Rate (SRR) Record.
Helpful Videos
Alternatively, download the CARDALIS® App to take the reading and save it for you. Each reading will be stored in the app in a handy graph that can be emailed or shown to the vet. It’s easy!