Tracheal Collapse help

My dog had had tracheal collapse for a few years now and it keeps getting worse. His vet recommended stent surgery. Is anyone familiar with this? I just don't know what decision to make. Medication really isn't helping but I'm so afraid of complications from the surgery. The surgery is intraluminal which means they don't need to cut him open. It's done through a tube down his throat. I read on line that dogs only live a couple of years after surgery. My vet disagrees and thinks he would live much longer. What should I do?

Re: Tracheal Collapse help

How old is your dog? Does he have any other health conditions?

My family dog had this condition but it never got very severe. My boss' dog has it now and it is quite bad but she is 15 and not doing well so they are not sure putting her through the surgery is worth it (or totally safe).

If your dog is young and otherwise healthy, then it might be a viable option for you.

Re: Tracheal Collapse help

No experience but I would try to do a google search for any forums of dog owners that have pets with this condition. My Rocky suffered from an auto immune disease and i was able to find a forum of pet owners who's dogs also had the same disease and they're support, advice, etc was invaluable. Good Luck

Re: Tracheal Collapse help

my dog had this problem as well. our vet gave her medicine but it didn't really help. if your dog is young, i'd consider the surgery. mine was almost 13 so any type of surgery is risky at that point.