I just read an article on how good Pimobendan is for dogs who are in congestive heart failure. Lucky was involved in a six-month study in which a sister-drug to Pimobendan (Livosimendan, I think (was being studied).
We thought Lucky did really well on the study drug. Until, that is, the study ended and he was put on Pimobendan (because the study-drug was only available during the course of the study). He improved!
He's still doing well, and we've reached the one year mark. Originally, the cardiologist gave Lucky only six to eighteen months (and he hinted that he thought we'd be closer to the six than the eighteen month mark).
Needless to say, we're thrilled to have continued and stellar progress with the Pimobendan. He wouldn't be alive without it (and the five other drugs he's on). If your vet refers you to a cardiologist for your dog, be sure you pass along the information in the article.
Here's a brief excerpt, click to read the entire article:
Veterinarians and dog owners are welcoming new research that
delivers the promise of an extended happy life together for millions of dog
owners and their pets. The three-year study demonstrates that dogs suffering
from the most common type of heart failure live on average 91% (267 days vs.
140 days) longer when treated with the product Vetmedin(R) (pimobendan)
compared with another common treatment option(1).
