eensor--Yes, I knew about the problems caused by collars before I got my dog. I use a collar just to put his tags on when he goes out. But I hook his leash to his harness. Thank you for offering your advice to me though. I live in Hauppauge...only about 15-20 minutes from Stony Brook! Where did you move to now?
dexter--For 2 years, I kept saying to myself & my boyfriend that I want to take him to another vet for a 2nd opinion, but never acted upon my hunch. I am hating myself now for not going to another vet because if I would have caught the collapsed trachea from day one, it could have possibly prevented the paralysis of his larynx from developing as well as the valve problem. Plus, I could have at least tried to treat the collapsed trachea with alternative treatments before surgery. I would strongly suggest that you get a 2nd opinion. Charlie's problem started out similar to what Dexter does...first with a single cough, then it eventually turned into a deep breathing in and out, sort of like catching his breath, like gasping, then eventually all the rest of the sounds started as time progressed. I'm glad to see that you said Dexter went months w/o any symptons, so it probably isn't it, but you should make sure. By all means, I don't want to scare you, and I hope I am not, but you are better safe than sorry. I would give anything to go back 2 years and get a 2nd opinion. I do think it's definitely worth it to put your mind at ease. I hope little Dexter is okay. Hopefully it is just a minor thing that is treated with medicine.
I will pray for the little guy too. Please let me know how everything works out. He will be in my thoughts along with my Charlie.