Heart Disease in Dogs
If you are a dog owner, you will
probably agree that your pet holds a special place in your heart. But you
must remember that keeping your dog's heart healthy is one of your
responsibilities.
"When it comes to heart
disease, regular visits to your veterinarian could mean the difference
between life and premature death," says Dr. Joanne Bicknese.
"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 with early detection and treatment".
What is Heart Disease in Dogs?
Heart disease in dogs, as in people, can be either present
at birth or acquired, often developing during middle age. Acquired
heart disease is more common, affecting many older dogs.
Are there different types of heart
disease in dogs?
Yes, there are two common types of heart disease in dogs:
- In one type, a dog's heart
valves lose their ability to close properly, causing abnormal blood
flow.
- In the other type, the
muscular walls of a dog's heart become thinned and weakened.
Both types develop gradually
over time and result in the same serious condition called heart
failure.
Heart Failure
A major threat to your dog's health is heart failure. Of
the dogs in the United States examined annually by a veterinarian,
approximately 3.2 million have some form of acquired heart disease and may
be 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 heart damage can occur.
What are the signs of heart disease in
dogs?
Although some of the early stages of heart failure in dogs
have no visible signs, heart failure can be diagnosed through a clinical
evaluation by a veterinarian. Dogs with mild to moderate heart failure
typically experience heart enlargement, coughing, lethargy and difficulty
breathing. Severe heart failure is characterized by difficulty breathing
(even at rest), fainting, profound intolerance to exercise, loss of
appetite and weight loss.
How can I find out if my dog has heart
disease?
Your veterinarian is your dog's healthcare expert. Regular
veterinary visits are important for early detection of health problems.
Your veterinarian may ask you
for specific information about your dog before performing a thorough
physical examination. If indicated, blood and urine tests, X-rays, an EKG
or other tests may be ordered. Regular testing is important for early
detection of heart disease in dogs.
"Too often, dog owners do
not take their dogs to visit the veterinarian until they are displaying
severe signs of heart failure, and by then it may be too late," says
Dr. Bicknese. "When heart disease is detected in your dog, your
veterinarian can recommend a schedule of regular visits and discuss a
treatment plan that can help."
Can dogs with heart disease be
treated?
Yes. Although there is no cure for most heart disease in
dogs, new treatments are available. Success of treatment depends on
various factors, but early detection is always best. By following your
veterinarian's recommendations, you can help your dog live a longer, more
comfortable life.
Keeping Your Dog Healthy
In addition to safeguarding your dog's heart, there's a lot
you can do to keep your dog happy and in top shape. Ensure that your dog
gets a moderate amount of exercise on a regular basis and has a balanced
diet. An obese dog may have a harder time staying healthy.
Avoid the heartbreak of seeing
your family's best friend fall ill. Proper care and veterinary supervision
can help you watch your dog grow to a "hearty" old age. |
