Veterinarian Column: Diseases that dogs are susceptible to depending on their breed
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, people are spending more time at home, and more people are keeping pets. On the other hand, it has been reported in the news that there are a number of cases where people are giving up their products due to economic reasons. Pets are cute, but like children, they require daily care. In addition, you must understand that annual preventive care and medical expenses will be incurred in the event that your pet becomes ill.
Before purchasing a pet, check the diseases that the pet is prone to and if it gets sick, can it be treated? Is there a way to prevent the disease? It is important to know such things.
This time, we will explain the diseases specific to typical dog breeds, their prevention methods, and treatments.
■ Small dog
Mitral regurgitation
It is more common in older small dogs. It is a heart disease in which the heart valves do not close properly, causing blood to flow backwards.
It is difficult for owners to notice it at first, but it is often discovered by chance during auscultation during a visit to the hospital. Once a disease is discovered, it is important to undergo appropriate testing. Treatment is required depending on the stage of progression. For medical treatment, lifelong medication is required. Early detection is important. Get a proper health check.
Tracheal collapse
This disease is common in middle-aged and elderly small dogs (such as Pomeranians, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, Chihuahuas, and Poodles), but it can also occur in young dogs. The cause has not been determined. It is common in dogs that tend to be obese. This is a disease in which the trachea becomes flattened, making breathing difficult.
Medical treatment aims to suppress symptoms. Surgical treatment may also be used. It is important not to make your child obese, do not put strain on his trachea, and be careful about temperature and humidity.
■ Toy poodle
otitis externa
Because their ears droop and hair grows inside their ears, they are susceptible to ear infections. If it becomes severe, it will take time to heal completely. Even if it heals, it may happen again and again.
Check your dog's ears regularly and if there is a strong odor or a lot of earwax, take your dog to a veterinarian.
■ Chihuahua
patellar luxation
This is a disease in which the bone in the knee, called the patella, becomes detached. Sometimes it is discovered by chance when you come to the hospital, but sometimes you notice pain or an odd way you walk.
Medical treatment involves the use of supplements in hopes of alleviating the pain and slowing its progression. Chronic patellar dislocation puts you at risk for anterior cruciate ligament rupture and osteoarthritis. Surgical treatment may be required for complete recovery. It is important to take measures to avoid slipping on the floor so as not to make you fat or put stress on your joints.
hydrocephalus
This is a disease in which cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the subarachnoid space, causing neurological symptoms. Treatment includes medical treatment and surgery to lower brain pressure. There is no prevention method; early detection and early treatment are important.
■ Shiba Inu
atopic dermatitis
Excessive immune responses to environmental allergens can cause itchy skin, secondary infections, and hair loss. Treatment includes infection treatment, anti-itch medications, anti-allergy medications, skin care, and allergen removal. There is no cure, so it is a disease that you will live with for the rest of your life.
glaucoma
It is said that genetics are involved in glaucoma in Shiba Inu dogs. Increased intraocular pressure causes redness and pain, which can lead to blindness over time. Medical treatment is used to lower intraocular pressure, and if it is difficult to manage with medical treatment, surgical treatment is performed. There is no prevention method for hereditary glaucoma. Early detection and early treatment are important.
■ Miniature Dachshund
herniated disc
As a chondrodystrophic dog breed, miniature dachshunds are prone to herniated discs. This is a disease in which the intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae, protrude and put pressure on the nerves. If the symptoms are mild, medical treatment may be performed, but surgical treatment is required for complete recovery. Rehabilitation is also required after surgery. It is also important to prevent obesity, hold your pet in a way that does not put strain on its back, and take measures to prevent it from slipping indoors.
progressive retinal atrophy
It is a genetic disease that causes progressive degeneration of the retina, eventually resulting in blindness. In the early stages, vision deteriorates at night, and as the disease progresses, symptoms such as bumping into objects even in bright light appear. Since it is a genetic disease, there is no prevention and no cure. Supplements are used in hopes of slowing the progression. Since you can't see, it's important to take care of yourself after you lose your eyesight, such as taking measures to avoid bumping into furniture.
■ brachycephalic breed
brachycephalic airway syndrome
This is an obstructive airway disorder caused by the anatomical structure of brachycephalic breeds, such as the flat face and short, thick neck. It occurs in combination with stenotic nasal passages, soft palate overgrowth, laryngeal ventricular ectropion, laryngeal collapse, tracheal hypoplasia, and tracheal collapse.
Symptoms include gurgling breathing sounds, intense panting, and high body temperature. Medical treatment is performed to alleviate symptoms. It has been reported that performing surgery before the age of 1 year is highly effective.
Just because your dog is a disease-prone breed doesn't necessarily mean your dog will develop the disease, but knowing about the disease can lead to prevention and early detection. If you are thinking of owning a pet, be sure to learn about the serious aspects of illness, and reconsider whether you will be able to receive appropriate treatment if your pet becomes ill.
