Question:
My tiny puppy is 4 months old and 2.5 lbs. In the four weeks he's been home, he's had Giardia, 2 weeks of kennel cough and now he has bouts of gasping for air, which sounds awfully uncomfortable (maybe dangerous?). I hope it's not a collapsed trachea, which are common in small breeds. I'm worried about him. Is he always sick because his immune system is down due to adjusting to a new home environment? He's from a hot and humid place, whereas I live in a dry and cold place. Also, I've noticed that both times he gotten sick (kennel cough and gasping for air), it was shortly after bathing him. He shakes uncontrollably during and after a bath - I'm not sure if he's scared or if he's cold. Maybe he's caught a cold from bathing? I just want him to be happy and healthy, that's all...

Answer:
What type of dog is this, and where did you get it? Sounds like he needs to get back to the vet.

I rarely bath my dogs. Chase got one in August of last year. Missy hasn't had one since I got her. They are both short haired though, so they can be cleaned by a thorough brushing.

Answer:
I would leave the bathing for a while but phone vet and just see what they think.

I can't avoid baths for mine cause they are the "Mud Monsters AWWWWWWWW"

Answer:
Where did you get this puppy, and what breed is he? Have you taken him to the vet? Gasping for air is a serious thing and should be seen to yesterday!

Answer: