Pulmonary Thromboembolism (Blood Clot in the Lung) in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

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Pulmonary thromboembolism in dogs, also known as PTE, is a medical condition where there is a blood clot in one of the dog’s arteries. This prevents blood from flowing properly from the artery to the lungs.

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The condition often affects dogs that: medium or large sizealong with older canines.

If you see signs that your dog may be suffering from a blood clot in the lungs, then what? you should consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. Here’s what you need to know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments of pulmonary thromboembolism in dogs.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Thromboembolism in Dogs

Pulmonary thromboembolism in dogs causes a range of symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms are:

• Breathing problems
• cough
• Breathe very fast
• spitting blood
• Unable to get comfortable
• acting listless

Causes of Pulmonary Thromboembolism in Dogs

(Photo credit: Monty Rakusen/Getty Images)

There are a number of possible causes of PTE in dogs. Some of the most common causes are:

• heartworm
• kidney disease
• Cancer
• Cushing’s disease
• Inflamed pancreas
• Blood clotting in blood vessels (known as disseminated intravascular coagulopathy or DIC)
• heart disease

Veterinary Treatments

If you begin to suspect that your dog has developed pulmonary thromboembolism, your vet will want to perform a complete physical exam. This includes blood, electrolyte and urine tests.

Your vet will ask detailed questions about your dog’s medical history, as well as any recent symptoms. They will also check oxygen levels in the blood and may also suggest X-rays or an electrocardiogram (ECG).

When it comes to treatment, often the first step is to use oxygen therapy while the dog is hospitalized. After this, the vet will focus on the underlying cause of the condition.

While your dog is recovering at home, your vet may recommend limiting your dog’s exercise activities. It is also vital to have regular vet visits to monitor the condition of the condition.

Has your dog ever developed pulmonary thromboembolism? How did your vet help your dog recover? Tell us all about it in the comments below.