[RemydeHaviland]

Replying to both responses above, with some additional info.

Regarding CT - the xrays do show narrowing along the length of the trachea. So to some extent we are dealing with CT.

It remains unclear if the cough is directly correlated to the CT. Even UC Davis was unsure. But the antibiotic course makes sense, and his east coast vet in NH has also agreed it is the best next step to address any potential secondary infection in his lungs.

Remy seems to be responding to the doxycycline and I will be reaching out to UC Davis at the end of the 14 days with a status. His cardiac doctor will give me additional input at that point.

At the end of last week, we also consulted a holistic vet here in Carmel. She thinks we may be dealing some degree of megaesophagus and lung aspiration. With age it is possible to see an onset of megaesophagus, apparently, and I am now learning more about this potential condition. He has had a few episodes of regurgitation (as compared with vomit) but it is not a regular occurrence. Further, his cough typically ends with him trying to purge - like he is trying to cough up matter. The characteristics of the cough have led her down this path, which actually makes more sense to me than CT related cough. If he has had aspiration of matter into his lungs that certainly will cause the lung sounds, cough, etc. The antibiotic course is the right step to address any infection caused by aspiration.

Made immediate changes to his feeding protocol. Now using raised bowls - and hand feeding. Small meatball sized pieces fed slowly. The holistic vet has added a few nutritional supplements to help boost his immune system.

In summary, there has been improvement. Coughing is not as frequent and the duration of each episode is shorter. He is sleeping at least 4-5 hours steadily at night which is much better for his people. Energy level remains strong.

While we are still not 100% sure what we are dealing with (after 9 months of multiple vet visits) it seems we are getting closer to a solution. My goal is to eliminate the cough, and implement necessary lifestyle and diet changes to adapt to whatever condition we are dealing with. Further, implement any nutritional supplements that can help his body better handle the degeneration associated with aging.