Free report on Canine Heart Disease
Heart Disease In Dogs
By: Stephanie Kress
Heart disease is common in dogs, perhaps as common as it is in humans.
While some dogs are born with developmental heart problems, most develop their
problems during adulthood or old age.
The heart is responsible for pumping the oxygen- carrying blood around the
body, and when heart function is less than optimal, body tissues do not
receive as much oxygen as they need. When the heart is no longer capable of
doing its job effectively, the condition is referred to as heart failure.
There are now a great many ways of diagnosing heart disease. In addition to
electrocardiograms (ECGs), cardiac ultrasound has made the diagnosis of heart
disease much easier to detect. Regular visits to your veterinarian often can
mean the difference between life and premature death.
Dog owners may not realize that their pets are susceptible to many forms of
heart disease. In most cases, heart disease can be successfully managed by
early detection and treatment.
Of the dogs in the United States examined annually by veterinarians,
approximately 3.2 million have some form of heart disease, and many are in
heart failure. Heart failure results from the heart's inability to pump blood
at a rate required to meet the body's needs. While continuing to work harder
to pump blood, further damage can occur.
The most common congenital cardiovascular anomaly of dogs is patent ductus
arteriosus, or PDA. When the duct doesn't close as it should, blood is pushed
back through the heart instead of throughout the body. This can cause such
visual signs as exercise intolerance, increased breathing rate, and coughing
or collapsing during exercise.
The best solution usually is surgery. In most cases surgery is successful
and well-tolerated.
Too often, dog owners do not take their dogs to visit their veterinarian
until the dogs are displaying signs of severe heart failure-and by then it
often is too late. When heart disease is detected, your veterinarian can
discuss a treatment plan and recommend a schedule of regular follow-up visits.
There are two very common types of heart problems in dogs. One is when a
dog's heart valves lose their ability to close properly, causing abnormal
blood flow. In the other type, the muscular walls of the heart become thinned
and weakened.
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is the most severe form of heart disease for a
dog, and it occurs when the heart weakens and can no longer pump effectively.
Some dogs with heart failure are classic couch potatoes-overweight and
inactive. Obesity can harm your dog's heart in many ways-just as in people.
These drawbacks in health can sometimes turn a mild heart problem into a more
serious one.
(See below for solutions for overweight dogs!)
Animals with heart failure may also retain salt and water in their bodies,
leading to fluid retention. If the heart is not working properly, the amount
of blood circulating to the body will be decreased, causing fatigue, weakness,
and a pale appearance of the gums.
Treatment for this type of heart problem may include a low sodium diet
together with restricted exercise, and the use of one or more drugs. The drugs
are used to increase the strength of the contraction of the heart muscle,
encourage water loss, and dilate blood vessels so that the heart can more
easily circulate the blood.
With careful assessment of your pet's individual needs by your pet's
surgeon and your commitment to managed care at home, your pet may be able to
lead a relatively comfortable life.
It is important not to feed any snacks, treats or tidbits, as these may
contain a higher level of sodium than your pet can tolerate. If your pet is
overweight, you may be advised to try a low calorie diet, as extra weight
increases stress on the heart and lungs.
Animals with heart disease may have decreased appetite, both from feeling
unwell and as a side effect from the heart drugs that are prescribed. Find
foods that are yummy and healthy. Sometimes a little encouragement goes a long
way.
If you suspect your pet may have heart problems or you notice specific
symptoms, contact your local veterinarian.
A healthy lifestyle, diet and exercise from the puppy stage can very often
prevent heart disease from occurring later in your dog's life.
A healthy heart means a happy dog and a happy dog makes a happy home. If
your dog's tail wags from puppyhood to adulthood to its senior years, then a
"hearty" thanks is welcomed by all.
In The Canine Zone!
With: Dr. Jane Bicks
Obesity among dogs and cats is one of the leading nutritional diseases. Many
veterinarians believe it is the greatest health issue facing American’s
pets.
The following health concerns may occur as a result of obesity:
*
Joint or locomotion difficulties ... Extra pounds put
added stress on joints, bones, ligaments and muscles. Conditions such as
arthritis, hip dysplasia, disk disease and ligament ruptures may be caused
or aggravated by obesity.
*
Heart and Respiratory Disease ... Heart and lungs have
to work harder to provide adequate oxygen and circulation. Also, extra fat
in the chest cavity and around the heart muscle can decrease the
efficiency of the heart and lungs.
*
Diabetes ... Just like people, diabetes is much more
common in obese dogs and cats.
*
Liver Disease ... Obese animals are prone to liver
disease.
*
Heat Intolerance ... Insulating properties of excessive
fat make obese animals uncomfortable and unable to tolerate heat.
*
Skin Problems ... Obese animals often have trouble
grooming themselves. The rolls of skin built up by fat deposits can often
harbor dirt, bacteria and other harmful organisms.
*
Gastrointestinal Disorder ... Pancreatitis is seen all
too often in obese dogs. This condition is painful and life threatening.
Obesity is one of the greatest health concerns facing our precious
pets!
It can cause unnecessary suffering & shortened lifespan!
Unfortunately, many diet or low fat foods on the market today are focused on
weight loss only and often compromise a pet’s vitality, skin and coat, and
overall health.
Here's an easy to read picture chart as a guide to finding out if your pet
may be overweight.
Tell Me If My Dog's Fat?
Try Our Low Fat Doggie Treats!
Free Info Low Fat
Doggie Treats Here
See Also:
All Canine Care & Doggie Fun Stuff
How to Keep Your Dog & Cat Healthy
For More Good Really Cool Stuff on Dogs & Pets Do a Site Search
