Did you know that…? “"Heart disease in dogs"” Most of these are chronic conditions that require long-term care.
But how can we help him stay with us for as long as possible? First, we need to understand the disease, how to closely monitor his symptoms, and how to adjust our parenting practices appropriately.
Heart disease in dogs This condition is when the heart is not functioning at its full capacity (mostly due to leaky heart valves or age-related heart muscle degeneration). As the heart weakens, it can't pump blood to the body and lungs as efficiently as before. This results in your dog becoming easily tired, coughing, and having difficulty breathing in the sun.
Common heart diseases in dogs.
These heart diseases are quite common in older dogs or certain breeds, and can be broadly categorized as follows:
- Heart valve degeneration (common in small dog breeds)
- Myocardial degeneration
- Heartworm Disease
How to spot symptoms in a dog that may indicate heart disease.
- Persistent cough, especially at night or upon waking; easily fatigued; shortness of breath; rapid breathing.
- Easily fatigued, out of breath when standing, ribcage shifting, breathing faster than normal.
- I don't want to play, I don't want to run. I only walk a little bit before I want to lie down.
- Suddenly feeling faint, collapsing, or losing consciousness.
- An enlarged belly and swollen abdomen are caused by fluid retention (a sign that the condition is worsening).
How to care for a dog with heart disease.
1. Administer medication strictly as prescribed by the veterinarian.
The medications used usually help reduce the workload on the heart, remove excess water from the body, and control blood pressure. Never stop taking the medication on your own, even if your symptoms improve.
2. Control your diet.
Choose low-sodium foods, avoid salty and fatty foods, and control your weight to prevent obesity. Being overweight means your heart has to work harder.
3. Exercise in moderation.
Avoid strenuous activities such as running or jumping. Focus on light, steady walking. If you start to get out of breath, stop immediately.
4. Create a comfortable environment.
The area should have good ventilation, not be stuffy, avoid stress, and have a comfortable, quiet place to sleep.
5. Monitor symptoms regularly.
Monitor the heart periodically (e.g., X-ray, ultrasound), assess the response to medication, and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
6. Monitor your breathing at home.
A simple method: Count the breathing rate during sleep (normally < 30 breaths/minute). If it's higher or the animal is breathing heavily, you should take it to a veterinarian.
Warning signs of heart disease in dogs.
Or, emergency symptoms in dogs with heart disease that indicate the need to take them to the veterinarian immediately.
- Severe shortness of breath, difficulty breathing.
- Pale or green gums
- Fainting or having a seizure.
- Severe and persistent coughing.
Important things to know.
In many cases, heart disease in dogs is incurable.
However, with proper and consistent care, symptoms can be controlled, lifespan can be extended, and quality of life can be improved.