A healthy heart is imperative for your
dog to grow, live, and thrive. Unfortunately, an estimated 10
percent
of all dogs have heart disease. Even though it is common,
most people do not really understand heart disease or its dangers.
With this guide and your veterinarian's
help, you will learn the causes, signs, and treatment options for
canine heart disease.
Causes
Unfortunately, there is no single cause
of heart disease. In fact, there are a variety of issues that can
increase your dog's risk of developing heart disease. There are also
different types of heart disease, which are caused by different
factors.
Unlike the heart disease that affects
humans, tobacco products or fatty diets will not cause your dog's
heart disease. Age, however, is a factor, so the older your dog is,
the more risk they have of developing heart disease.
Valvular disease is the most common
form of heart disease in dogs. This form of heart disease is
characterized by a breakdown and thickening of the heart valves. It
mostly affects smaller dog breeds who are 5 years of age and older.
Heartworm disease is another common
cause of heart disease in dogs. As the name suggests, this form of
heart disease is caused by heartworms, which can be prevented with
proper medication.
Myocardial is another form of heart
disease that usually affects large breed dogs. This form of heart
disease affects the systolic function of the heart.
Signs
Every dog is different, but there are a
few signs to watch for if you are concerned about heart disease in
your dog.
Coughing is one common sign of heart
disease. If your dog's coughing seems to be constant and lasts for
more than 3 days, schedule a full medical evaluation.
Dogs with heart disease will also have
breathing issues because fluid builds up around the heart and lungs.
You may notice your dog pants
continuously even when they are not hot or tired or your dog may
struggle to calm themselves, breathing heavily and haphazardly when
they overexert themselves. Dogs with heart disease may also have
shallow, labored breathing or take rapid, deep breaths.
Shortness of breath or difficulty
breathing can also lead to your dog passing out.
Weakness and fatigue are also common
with dogs who have heart disease. You may notice your dog no longer
wants to run and play or is unable to walk up the stairs or jump on
furniture. Your dog may also sleep more than usual.
Even though they may feel fatigued,
dogs with heart disease may also become restless at night. Again,
this stems from the fluid that builds up around the heart and lungs,
which makes your dog uncomfortable and agitated.
If you notice swelling around your
dog's stomach and different extremities, they may have edema, which
is another sign of heart disease that occurs when the blood flow is
interrupted or slowed.
Treatment
If you suspect your dog has heart
disease, talk to your veterinarian. Early intervention can mean the
difference between life and death. And the right treatment will
depend on the cause of your dog's heart disease.
For example, if your dog's heart disease stems from valve issues, surgery may be recommended. While invasive, surgery to repair the valves can restore the cardiovascular system to a fully-functional state.
Pacemakers may also be options recommended by your dog's veterinarian to improve the heart's function.
For dogs with heartworms, injectable medications are used to kill the heartworms.
Also, veterinarians may suggest a diet low in salt/sodium. This will help your dog's body retain less fluid, which reduces the pressure and stress placed on the heart and lungs.
Help is available if you are concerned about your dog's health and wellness. Contact us at the Pet Medical Center of Vero Beach today.
