Dilative Cardiomyopathy in Dogs

                -------------------------------

                      General Information



Dilative cardiomyopathy generally affects large breeds of dogs,

usually 3 years of age and older.  The disease is due to weakness

of the heart muscle, which causes the heart to enlarge (dilate)

and pump inefficiently.



Dilative cardiomyopathy probably results from severe muscle

damage caused by infection or some other mechanism.  Occasionally

dilative cardiomyopathy is associated with other diseases,

especially the gastric dilation/torsion syndrome.  The end result

of the disease is heart failure.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Dilative cardiomyopathy is a very serious condition.  Most

    dogs only live for a few months after diagnosis.



2.  Giving all the medication on schedule is extremely important.

    Please call the doctor if you cannot medicate your pet as

    instructed.



3.  Activity:  Your pet's activity must be severely restricted.

    No running, jumping, rough playing or ball chasing is

    allowed. Avoid situations that result in extreme excitement

    or extended barking.



4.  Diet:  A low-sodium (low-salt) diet is important to proper

    treatment.  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed Prescription Diet h/d.



    ____Other:



    ____Feeding schedule:





       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet's condition worsens.



    * Your pet refuses to eat.



    * Your pet becomes reluctant to move or collapses.



    * Your pet's abdomen enlarges.