Showing posts with label canine heart disease. Show all posts
Showing posts with label canine heart disease. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Is Your Dog Genetically Predisposed to Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis?



Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis (SAS) is a type of heart disease that can cause sudden death to your pet.  It is one of the most common types of inherited heart diseases found in Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands, and Rottweilers. The disease restricts the blood flow from the heart to the aorta, due to a ridge or abnormal tissue growth. It can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. Fortunately, genetic testing is now available and hopefully new methods of treatment can be implemented.

Symptoms and Life Span

  • Mild- typically no observable clinical signs of disease.
  • Moderate to Severe- difficulty breathing, weakness, fainting, and in extreme cases, sudden death.
Dogs with severe SAS usually have a lifespan of about 18 months without intervention and up to 5 years with treatment. Dogs with mild to moderate SAS have a longer life span, with some living to average age for the breed. Intervention can help significantly. It is important to work with your veterinarian for the best course of action.

Treatment:
In mild cases, your pet may not require treatment, however, in moderate to severe cases of SAS you should work with your veterinarian  to determine the best course of action. A combination of life style adaptions (limiting the workload on the heart by avoiding intense physical exertion), traditional treatment (beta blockers) and holistic support can improve the quality of life for your pet.  We recommend a heart healthy diet and including   Amazing Omegas for Pets, and Purrfect Pet CoQ10 into your treatment plan.

It is important to keep follow-up appointments with your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s progress, so that changes can be made to the treatment plan.

If your dog is having trouble breathing or collapses, even if they recover quickly, see your veterinarian immediately.
Monday, November 10, 2014

Have You Walked Your Dog Today?


A new study from the University of Liverpool has recommended that the well-being of both  pets and their owners can benefit from education and pet-friendly facilities. During the study, it was found that an estimated 40 percent of dog owners do not walk their pets, which could be a contributing factor to dog obesity. Canine obesity can have the same serious health consequences as people (diabetes, heart disease and joint issues). It is also believed, obese owners may be more likely to have obese dogs, perhaps because they are less likely to exercise their dog, or less able to recognise obesity. The study found the two main reasons people were not walking their dogs were: not being informed on how much was needed and having limited access to dog friendly areas. Walking is a great form of exercise and can be beneficial for you and your pet.

Here are the findings from the study 

  • People who did not have access to high quality areas that support dog walking (dog parks that allow dogs off leash and provide waste disposal facilities, for example), were much less likely to walk with their dog. People were just more motivated to walk when the area was more conducive. 
  • Many pet owners did not have the knowledge of how much exercise their pet really needed (150 minutes of physical activity a week is recommended) , or the the health benefits that could be obtained from walking your furry friend.  A coordinated effort to educate pet owners could have a great impact, the study showed that those that were aware, were much more likely to walk their dogs.
  • The stronger the dog-owner bond,  the more likely they were to take them on regular walks.
  • Anxiety over their pet's behavior also had an impact on how often people would take their pets out. Training your pet to be a good citizen is always important, but it could also lessen this fear and make it a fun time for all.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Canine Kidney Disease, Canine Heart Problems Improved

"I would like to thank Susan Davis for all of her knowledge and expertise in nutrition and diet. My Archie and Noonie would not be here today if I hadn't found her! Through her instruction, we have corrected the heart problem Archie had and the kidney problem Noonie had. My vet is amazed and to me, it is no less than a miracle! Susan has taught me how to keep them healthy and happy in their "golden years"

I also want to thank her staff at Ask Ariel Your Pet Nutritionist. They have never failed to get my supplements here on time and exactly as I ordered them. And I must say, Archie looks forward to seeing me open the packages, because he knows there will be a surprise waiting inside for him. He loves the little toys you send and constantly carries them around."




















The Underwood Family, Texas January 2011