CANINE BLOAT
CANINE BLOAT (Gastric Dilation-Volvulus) is a digestive problem caused by the excessive swallowing of air while eating, gastrointestinal secretions, and gas from fermentation of food in the stomach. This is a LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY primarily found in large or giant, deep-chested dog breeds, but it also has been reported in smaller breeds such as the Dachshund and Basset Hound.
There are still many unanswered questions about this problem and a lot of research is currently investigating the problem.
The following recommendations are currently recommended:
1. Feed large dogs two or three times daily, rather than once a day, and at times when someone can observe after-feeding behavior.
2. Be alert for any actions from the dog that signal abdominal discomfort. These include: evidence of abdominal fullness after meals, whining, pacing, getting up and lying down, stretching, looking at the abdomen, anxiety, and unproductive attempts to vomit. Animals showing these signs should be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
3. Establish a good working relationship with a veterinary hospital that offers 24 hour emergency service.
4. Make sure water is available to dogs at all times, but limit the amount immediately after feeding if the dog appears to over-consume.
5. Avoid vigorous exercise, excitement, and stress one hour before and two hours after meals. Walking is permissible as it may help to stimulate normal gastrointestinal function.
6. Diet changes should be made gradually over a period of 3 - 5 days.
7. Feed susceptible dogs individually and, if possible, in a quiet location.
8. Pay special attention to these procedures after animals return home from being elsewhere.
9. Dogs that have survived bloat are at increased risk for future episodes. Be sure to discuss preventive surgery or medical management with the veterinarian.
CANINE BLOAT
Bloat is a condition affecting primarily the large breed dogs in which the stomach simply fills with air. Most common breeds are Great Danes, Irish Setters, German Shepherds, Afghans, and Rhodesian Ridgebacks. This condition may progress to include “volvulus” which means the stomach has twisted on its longitudinal axis. Both of these conditions are emergency conditions!
CAUSES of this condition are really not understood. One theory is that if the dog ate a large amount of dry food followed by ingestion of large amounts of water, the dry food then swells. If strenuous exercise is exerted with the stomach this full, the resulting running and jumping causes the heavy stomach to twist from the excessive movement.
The most current theory is that the stomach’s regular contractions during the process of digestion lose their regular rhythm and traps air in the stomach that does not pass on down into the intestine. As the stomach pressure increases, the dog is unable to “belch” off the gas.
SIGNS of bloat include depression, pain, inability to get comfortable, and a protrusion most prominent on the left side of the dog in the area of the stomach. The dog often will lie in the “praying position,” with the front legs drawn fully forward.
RADIOGRAPHS are needed to determine if the stomach has twisted (volvulus).
CAUSES OF CONCERN.
1. Shock resulting from the distended stomach putting pressure on the large veins of the abdomen obstructing proper return of blood to the heart. This decreases heart output and results in poor blood and oxygen supply.
2. Stomach wall does not get proper blood circulation due to shock and pressure on the stomach wall blood vessels from the distention. If adequate blood flow is not returned quickly to the stomach wall, the stomach wall begins to die and may even rupture.
3. Spleen blood supply is interrupted if the stomach twists causing a rotation of the spleen and its vessels.
4. Digestion stops when bloat occurs. That allows the accumulation of toxins in the intestinal tract that activates chemicals causing inflammation. Toxins are also absorbed into the blood circulation.
TREATMENT OF BLOAT:
1. Treat shock with IV fluids & “shock” drugs.
2. Relieve stomach pressure via stomach tube and/or surgery.
3. Return the stomach to its proper position if twisted.
4. Remove devitalized stomach wall by surgery.
5. Attach stomach to abdominal wall (gastropexy) to prevent recurrence.
6. Monitor & treat for heart rhythm abnormalities (arrhythmias) which commonly occur for several days after bloating occurs.
PROGNOSIS. Survival rate depends on severity of distention, amount of time before treatment, and degree of shock present. Approximately 60-70& of dogs will survive when very aggressive therapy is initiated quickly.
GASTRIC DILATION & VOLVULUS
GASTRIC DILATION & VOLVULUS (GDV), commonly called “bloat,” is a potentially fatal condition in which a dog’s stomach distends with gas, food, and fluid—and then possibly rotates or “twists.” This twisting blocks both the entrances to the stomach from the esophagus and the exit into the intestines. It also shuts off the blood supply to the stomach and other internal organs. Distention and twisting may occur separately or together. When the condition occurs, every minute before treatment is initiated is critical in determining the dog’s chances of survival.
The condition is more common in older, purebred dogs. The deep-chested breeds such as Great Danes, Irish Setters, and Saint Bernards have the highest incidence. The deep, narrow chest provides a greater opportunity for the ligaments that support the stomach to stretch, especially when the stomach is full.
SIGNS. If a dog with this condition could talk, he would complain of abdominal pain, nausea, and weakness. But our canine friends can’t verbalize this information, and therefore owners have to look for clinical signs. If your dog exhibits one or more of the following conditions or behaviors—especially within a few hours of eating, call your veterinarian without delay:
1. Abdominal swelling and tenderness
2. Unsuccessful attempts to vomit (retching)
3. Excessive drooling
4. Restlessness or frequent change of position, often accompanied by whining
5. Panting or labored breathing
6. Staring at the abdomen, sometimes with a look of confusion or distress
TREATMENT. Minutes matter. Prompt treatment is essential for survival. Treatment may involve only removing the gas, washing out the stomach, and then close monitoring for a period of time to be sure it does not recur. In cases where there is a possible “twist,” emergency surgery is required. Surgery survival rate is not 100%, but it is the only chance the dog has. The earlier surgical intervention is initiated, the more likely a successful outcome. Once the abdomen is opened, it is possible to evaluate the stomach wall and other organs to better estimate the chances for survival.
REDUCE THE RISK. Even though there are no sure-fire ways to prevent these conditions, the following recommendations may help avoid it:
1. Feed your dog 2-3 small meals/day instead of one large meal.
2. Gradually introduce any dietary changes over a period of several days.
3. Moisten dry food with water so the food expands BEFORE it is eaten.
4. Avoid feeding table scraps or “people food.”
5. Do NOT vigorously exercise your dog for at least one hour before meals and two hours after eating.
6. Don’t allow your dog to eat large quantities of food rapidly.
7. Don’t allow your dog to drink large amounts of water before or after meals.
8. If possible, observe your dog for the first signs of distress for 1-2 hours after eating.
9. Be especially watchful when your dog is under stress, such as being kenneled, hospitalized, or in training.
www.missionvet.com
http://www.missionvet.com/k9%20conditions/Bloat2.htm
Friday, October 8, 2010
Monday, April 26, 2010
VON WILLEBRAND’S SYNDROME
VON WILLEBRAND’S SYNDROME
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Von Willebrand’s Syndrome is a bleeding disorder of both animals and man.
CAUSE of the condition is a deficiency in the amount of a certain protein required to help platelets (blood cells used for clotting blood) seal broken blood vessels.
Although many breeds can be affected, the Doberman is the breed most commonly observed with the condition. Many pets may be carriers of the condition even though not affected themselves. Other breeds showing a high incidence are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Scotties, and Shelties.
SIGNS OF THE DISEASE VARY. Many dogs having the condition never show clinical signs. Others may hemorrhage from the nose, bladder, vagina, or mucous membranes. Prolonged bleeding after surgery or injury is common. If uncontrolled hemorrhage continues, it can result in death. The time of life when initial signs are seen also varies. The condition may not be evident until 4 years of age in the Doberman.
SCREENING FOR THE DISEASE can be performed in the veterinary office if the disease is suspected. The test is termed the “Buccal Mucosal Screening Time.”
PRECAUTIONS FOR SUSPECTED CASES:
1. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about past bleeding history.
2. Buccal Mucosal Screening Time should be determined before surgery in suspected cases.
3. Avoid medications that decrease clotting ability such as aspirin, phenylbutazone, ibuprofen, ampicillin, amoxicillin, phenothiazine tranquilizers, theophylline, antihistamines, sulfa-based drugs, estrogens, penicillin, and heparin.
TREATMENT. Blood transfusions may be needed to stabilize the acute case. There is no curative treatment to prevent future problems. Follow the above precautions.
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Tracheobronchitis
CANINE TRACHEOBRONCHITIS, often nicknamed “Kennel Cough” is an inflammation of the windpipe (trachea) and lung air passages. There are many causes including irritation, bacteria, and viruses. It can be highly transmissible from one dog to another. It does not affect the cat or humans.
Your pet may show no signs of illness except a harsh, deep cough. It can come on suddenly or be the result of other Respiratory Infections.
This occurs many times after a dog has been kenneled for a few days. While kenneled away from home, many dogs do a lot of barking which irritates the throat making it more susceptible to developing bronchitis.
Many times, bronchitis may start from tonsillitis. Often gagging or vomiting mucus from the throat is seen by the owner.
With treatment, recovery is usually complete. Medications MAY be needed for several weeks. Complete recovery often takes SIX WEEKS!
Medication must be individualized to your pet’s particular needs. Many times we must start antibiotics for the bacterial infection, and let the dog cough for a week or two to remove the mucus. If the cough reflex is stopped too soon, pneumonia can develop from mucus that accumulates in the lungs. See your local animal hospital or veterinarianwww.missionvet.com
TRACHEAL COLLAPSE
TRACHEAL COLLAPSE
Collapse of the trachea is a condition where the windpipe is flattened instead of being rounded. It occurs most commonly in middle-aged to older smaller breed dogs that are overweight.
The trachea is composed of cartilage rings in the shape of a “C.” The open part of the “C” is located on top of the trachea and is composed of muscles and ligaments that hold the “tube” together. In cases of tracheal collapse, the windpipe collapses much like a soda straw does when sucked with excessive pressure. This decreases the size of the airway limiting movement of air within the windpipe thereby causing breathing difficulty and a cough or “honking” sound. If the collapse occurs in the part of the windpipe located in the lower neck before reaching the chest, then the collapse occurs upon inspiration. If the segment of the trachea involved is located within the chest, then the collapse occurs when the pet exhales the air. If both segments are involved, then the collapse is constant, but clinical signs are usually worse on expiration.
CAUSE of this condition is unknown. Obesity is commonly associated with tracheal collapse. It may be the result of a weakening of the tissue from bouts of bronchitis or other respiratory infections.
DIAGNOSIS of tracheal collapse is confirmed by radiographs (x-rays) and/or endoscopic examination (where a lighted tube is passed down the airway).
TREATMENT. Most cases are successfully treated with medications. Some complicated cases may require surgery. Surgery, however, is not guaranteed to solve the problem. For more information see your animal hospital or veterinarian.
www.missionvet.com
http://www.missionvet.com/k9%20conditions/Tracheal%20Collapse.htm
THIRD EYELID GLAND PROTRUSION
THIRD EYELID GLAND PROTRUSION
Dogs and cats have 3 eyelids: upper lid, lower lid, and one that is attached inside the other lids at the inside corner of the eye socket. This third eyelid serves to protect the eye from injury by closing over the eye to give a second covering of the eye.
On the inside of this third eyelid, there is a small lymph node and small gland that produces tears. The tears produced aid in lubrication of the eye.
A condition exists where this small gland becomes inflamed and swollen. Once swollen, the tissue of this gland then protrudes out over the free edge of the third eyelid. This condition is sometimes called “cherry eye,” because the reddened, swollen tissue resembles a cherry.
CAUSE of this condition is not known. An infection or allergic reactions may sometimes cause the condition. There is a tendency for the condition to occur in the other eye at some future date.
TREATMENT of this condition may be medical or surgical. Often times the condition is first treated topically with anti-inflammatory medications in an effort to avoid surgery. If medical therapy is not effective, then surgery to either remove part of the gland or replace the gland into its normal position is recommended. For more information contact your local animal hospital or veterinarian.
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http://www.missionvet.com/k9%20conditions/thrideyelidgland.htmPROSTATE GLAND DISEASE
PROSTATE GLAND DISEASE
http://www.missionvet.com/k9%20conditions/Prostate%20gland%20disease.htm
The prostate is a gland which surrounds the urethra (urine canal) near the bladder in male dogs and cats. The gland produces a fluid needed for reproduction. As in man, this gland may cause problems, especially in the OLDER, non-neutered pet.
These major problems include:
1. Infection (prostatitis) which can arise from bladder or blood infections.
2. Enlargement (benign hyperplasia) due to hormonal imbalances.
3. Cancer.
4. Cysts. (fluid-filled sacs formed within the gland itself)
Signs of prostate disease may include:
1. Pain in the rear quarters.
2. A “hunched-up” appearance to the back.
3. Straining to defecate--the pet may appear constipated.
4. Straining to urinate, bloody urine, and increased frequency of urination.
5. Discharges from the penis (blood or pus)
The treatment of prostate disease depends upon the individual cause.
Methods of treatment include:
1. Urine cultures--to determine proper therapy.
2. Hormone therapy.
3. Antibiotics.
4. Castration.
5. Prostate gland surgical removal.
Remember . . . NEUTERING your pet will help prevent prostate disease!
Notify the clinic if any of the following occur:
1. Your pet strains excessively to urinate or have a bowel movement.
2. Your pet has bloody urine or exhibits pain when urinating.
3. There is a discharge from the penis.
4. There is a change from your pet’s general health.
5. There is no response to therapy within 3 days.
For more information contact your local animal hospital or veterinarian.
www.missionvet.com
Parvo virus facts
PARVO VIRUS FACTS
Facts you should know about Parvovirus:
1. Contagious to dogs only - not cats or people.
2. Signs include vomiting, fever, and bloody diarrhea with a very foul odor.
3. The virus sometimes may attack the HEART muscle causing “myocarditis” (inflammation). This may occur for up to 3-6 weeks after apparent recovery from the intestinal form of the disease.
This “heart” form is ALWAYS FATAL!
4. The YOUNGER the dog, the GREATER the chance it will NOT recover.
5. Dogs that recover from parvovirus are often weak, making them even more susceptible to other diseases, such as DISTEMPER.
6. The virus is transmitted through the FECES of an infected dog. It can be carried on dog’s hair and feet as well as live on contaminated rugs, bedding, shoes, and other objects.
7. The most effective disinfectant is 4 oz. Clorox in l gallon of water.
8. Dogs that recover from parvovirus continue to spread the virus in the feces for a month or longer. (Carriers)
9. Dogs remain HIGHLY SUSCEPTIBLE to Parvovirus until 2 WEEKS after the LAST injection of the initial puppy immunization series.
10. Death from parvovirus result from:
(a) Dehydration.
(b) Overwhelming bacterial infection resulting from the pet’s lowered resistance.
(c) Blood loss from internal hemorrhage.
(d) Heart attack from invasion of the heart muscle by the virus.
11. Treatment is aimed at maintaining the normal body composition and preventing secondary bacterial infection. We have NO CURE for any animal virus, just as there is NO CURE for any human virus.
12. The body normally is about 80% water. Life is NOT possible when 12-15 % of the normal body fluids are lost. With parvo virus, the pet often quickly becomes “dehydrated” from the vomiting, diarrhea, and inability to consume fluids. This is the reason fluid therapy is so important in Parvo virus Therapy. For information contact your local animal hospital or veterinarian.
www.missionvet.com
http://www.missionvet.com/k9%20conditions/parvo.htm
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