Unfortunately our furry friends age and like humans are more susceptible to dog health concerns, including heart disease. Heart disease in dogs occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively. It is often seen more in older dogs, but any age or breed of dog can be affected.
Although heart disease in dogs is one of the more frequently diagnosed issues in dogs, you will be pleased to know that not all heart disease lead to heart failure. According to Dr. Jessica Romine, a veterinarian with BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Southfield, Michigan, “Mitral valve disease” accounts for about 75% of cases of acquired heart disease in dogs. This is caused by the degeneration of the atrioventricular vale on the left side of the heart, which leads to a back flow of blood through the value, eventually causing heart failure.
Some Causes of Heart Disease in Dogs
Nutritional causes of heart disease in dogs are currently being investigated. It has been reported that dogs being fed some grain-free diets, for example foods containing a high percentage of pulses like peas and lentils is still being studied states Dr Walton.
Heart worm disease can cause damage to your dog’s heart and ultimately block the outflow of blood. Discuss with your vet regarding a year round heart worm prevention.
Symptoms of Heart Disease in Dogs
If your furry friend has symptoms of heart disease you may see that your dog becomes lethargic, off their food, suffer weight loss, refuse to go for walks, cough, have a rapid respiratory rate and difficulty breathing.
Regular dog health checks are important to detect dog health concerns. Most dogs impacted by a dog heart disease do not necessarily show any clinical signs, but a visit to your dog’s veterinarian may notice a heart murmur.
Diagnosing Heart Disease in dogs
Regular dog health checks are vital for detecting heart disease in dogs.
An increased heart rate, heart murmur, heart arrhythmias, an increased respiratory rate or increased lung sounds are all signs that your furry friend has heart disease.
Treatment
Once a dog has been diagnosed with heart disease, even more caring for a dog, if that can be possible will begin.
Medication would generally begin. “Medication prescribed is to reduce fluid accumulation in the lungs, reduce the workload of the heart and optimize the contractility of the heart Dogs in congestive heart failure are monitored regularly with exams, x-rays, and blood tests Dr Walton explains”.
It is recommended to to start the medication course for heart disease in dogs right away. According to Dr. Romine, drugs such as Pimobendan can be used to help the heart contract more strongly, and the latest recommendations are to start this drug earlier in the course of heart disease.
How long do dogs live with heart disease?
Heart disease in dogs survival rate will depend on the prognosis. Sadly, some dogs will only survive between 1 to 2 years.
Preventing Heart Disease in Dogs
While heart disease in dogs is not necessarily preventable, there are some things dog owners can do to help lower their furry friends chances of being affected. An early diagnosis and treatment is very important and therefore a two yearly visit to the veterinarian to screen any risk factors. The year-round heart worm prevention as well as professional dental cleaning can also help decrease the risk of heart disease in dogs.
Obesity can lead to Heart Disease
Like humans, obesity plays a big part in your animal’s welfare. Dogs can certainly become obese too. Obesity is currently on the rise for dogs and if ignored may lead to diabetes, heart disease and degenerative joint disease among many other complications. The good news is obesity is easy to fix.
Just like humans you are in control of what your dog eats. A good, healthy, high quality diet is key and remember not to overfeed your dog too many treats.
Ensuring your dog has plenty of exercise is vital in order to keeping your dog fit and healthy.
Spending quality time with your dog will help towards preventing any problems.
Final Thoughts
Owning a dog you are entrusted with the responsibility to keep your dog healthy. Just feeding and playing with your dog will not keep them healthy and hearty.
They require regular care and proper nutrition in order to experience the best quality of life. Dog owners must take the initiative to give their dogs a proper upbringing and take care of their pet’s needs.
This will result in a happy and healthy life for both the owner and the dog.
In summary, it is important to be aware of your dog’s animal welfare for any changes in their activity level, behaviour and breathing, although heart disease in dogs may not always be avoidable.