My Dog Is 16 Years Old, And Has Been Breathing Hard And Panting. She Keeps Getting Up And Won't Lay Down. Then She'll Want To Sleep Outside In The Garden. What To Do?

My dog is sixteen years old, won't sleep and is breathing hard. What is wrong?

It is most likely that the problem could be in the chest area, leading to the panting and difficulty breathing.

Diseases may include:

• Pneumonia.
• Fungal infection.
• Cardiac disease.
• Cancer.

However, panting can also just be a sign of general discomfort and the main problem may be outside the respiratory system.

In a dog of this age, the list of possibilities is endless. Your veterinarian will diagnose the problem and start supportive care to relieve your pet's pain and discomfort.

You should take your dog to the vet as soon as possible.