PET HEALTH by Dr. Scot Trefz, D.V.M.
Your large breed dog may be at increased risk of developing one or more of these conditions:
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia – occur due to malformations in the hip or elbow joints. The joints can grind or rub together painfully. The condition may eventually cause arthritis, joint degeneration and inflammation, lameness, and difficulty climbing stairs or jumping.
Dysplasia is often inherited and can cause symptoms early in your pet’s life. Maintaining a healthy weight is particularly important for dogs with hip dysplasia. Even a few extra pounds can increase pressure on the joints. Although pain medications and joint supplements might improve your pet’s comfort, surgery may be needed in some cases.
Bloat, or Gastric Torsion – happens when your dog’s stomach stretches, then twists or rotates. This life-threatening condition can prevent blood from reaching the stomach or other parts of the body and may cause tears in the walls of the stomach. If your dog doesn’t receive immediate veterinary treatment, he or she may die. Bloat symptoms include swollen stomach, drooling, anxiety, pacing, inability to vomit, shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat. Your pet’s veterinarian can decrease pressure in the stomach by inserting a tube into the stomach or puncturing it with a needle if the tube won’t fit due to twisting. Surgery can restore the normal position of twisted stomachs.
Heart Problems – Symptoms of dilated cardiomyopathy include coughing, rapid breathing, weakness, fatigue and fainting. Medications may help control irregular rhythms and delay the progression of the disease or the development of congestive heart failure. Aortic stenosis is a condition that restricts blood flow to the heart due to a narrowed aorta. If your dog’s condition is mild, there may be no obvious signs. Dogs more severely affected may have trouble breathing, breathe rapidly or faint. Heart medications can be helpful for some dogs. In severe cases, cardiac catheterization may be recommended to widen narrowed areas.
Eyelid Conditions – Entropion and ectropion can affect the eyelids of big dogs, causing pain and irritation. Eyedrops and ointments that protect the sensitive tissues of the corneas and the lining of the eyes can be helpful if your pet has a mild form of either condition. Surgery may be recommended for severe cases. Regular veterinary care helps you safeguard your big dog’s health. They will love you for it!
Dr. Austin Plummer, D.V.M. and his wife Samantha, with their St. Bernard, Olivia and Lab mix, Ajax!
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Dr. Scot Trefz D.V.M
Medical Director & Owner
Bay Moorings Animal Hospital 727.867.0118
3695 50th Ave. S.,
St. Petersburg, FL 33711