Snips is a chubby cheek, two-year-old, domestic short hair. He has a beautifully marked face with a cute little freckle on his nose. Snips is a bit reserved because of all the changes in his life, but he will do well with a patient person. He gets along with some cats. Snips is looking for a forever home where he can curl up and purr. Come out and meet him he is the cat’s meow!
Watson here. During a recent checkup, the veterinarian listened to my heart. It’s one test I didn’t mind because there are no needles involved, no thermometer up your bum, or pills that gag me. I guess for an older dog my heart is sounding good.
The leading cause of death in humans is heart disease. While it affects both sexes, more than half of the people who die are men. Thinking about hearts, I wondered if heart disease affected dogs, too. Therefore, I did some research and will share what I found out.
Heart disease in dogs can be either congenital or acquired. Congenital conditions are present from birth and are likely hereditary. Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart has trouble pumping the proper amount of blood throughout the body and it may take years to become noticeable.
Another genetic condition is cardiomyopathy, a disease that affects the cardiac muscles and reduces the heart’s ability to produce enough pressure to pump blood. Breeds like Boxers can be predisposed to this malady.
Pulmonic Stenosis is another genetic heart defect that obstructs blood flow within the heart and affects breeds like Boston Terriers and Labrador Retrievers. Yikes!
Acquired conditions develop over time as the result of the normal wear and tear most often seen in middle-aged or older dogs. Some of the common types are canine valvular disease, arrhythmias, and pericardial disease.
The most important thing you can do for your BFF is to know the seven signs of canine heart disease: a dry cough following physical activity, shortness of breath, restlessness when sleeping, rapid weight loss, fainting, a potbelly (caused by fluid buildup), and fatigue. If you notice any of these, a trip to the veterinarian is a good idea.
According to the American Heart Association, pet ownership can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Walking with your BFF provides exercise and social support. It is a real heart-to-heart benefit.
XOXO
Watson
IN NEED OF
DON’T FORGET