As you know, the heart is a kind of "fiery engine", constantly working and providing the entire body with nutrients and oxygen. And even the most distant person from veterinary medicine or medicine knows perfectly well how serious the consequences are fraught with his pathologies. At best - a decrease in the quality of life of the animal, at worst - death. So any heart disease in dogs is a reason to immediately contact a veterinarian.
Note that cardiac pathologies in dogs proceed a little differently than if we compare animals with humans. In many breeds, the natural susceptibility to these diseases is markedly reduced, but this does not completely exclude the likelihood of developing an ailment.
Interestingly, dogs practically do not suffer from pathologies of the coronary arteries. The only exception is over-fed pets, whose owners too often delight their dogs with tasty, fatty, but monstrously unhealthy food (but even in these cases, the coronary arteries often remain normal, to the envy of people with CCC pathologies).
But this does not mean that dogs do not suffer from heart failure, heart attacks, congenital and acquired heart defects, endometritis, pericarditis and myocarditis ... The main danger of any heart pathologies is directly related to its main function - the timely delivery of oxygen to all internal organs and tissues and nutrients. If something is wrong with the "fiery engine", the whole organism suffers.
Despite the danger, many dogs can live their entire lives with minor heart defects without developing any signs of the disease. But you should not delude yourself: regardless of the presence of symptoms, the disease continues to develop slowly.
Sometimes the owners begin to notice its manifestations gradually, over several years, and sometimes something seems to “break” in the dog, and your pet, which recently ran merrily, begins to breathe heavily and hoarsely, all visible mucous membranes and even skin covers.
Main types of heart disease
It is believed that at least 95% of all heart diseases in dogs are purely acquired (in cats, by the way, there are much more congenital pathologies). Often this is the result of infectious diseases of viral etiology, as well as septic processes. The most characteristic heart disease in dogs for animals of middle and advanced years. The most common types of pathologies are:
- Chronic valve disease. Alas, this is an age-related feature - in old dogs, the heart valves always weaken, as a result of which the blood begins to “leak”.
- Myocarditis and myocardosis. In the first case, this is inflammation of the muscle layer of the organ, in the second, the process of its dystrophy and degeneration.
- Problems with the conduction system of the heart(blockade of the beams), resulting in various types of arrhythmias.
- Pericarditis. This is the name of the inflammation of the "bag", that is, a kind of external "wrapper" of the heart, formed by serous tissue. The problem is that inside the pericardium itself, with this pathology, a large amount of exudate begins to accumulate. This liquid acts as a "press", literally pinching the organ. Accordingly, the heart can no longer contract normally, as a result of which its insufficiency develops. Its characteristic signs are shortness of breath, coughing and shortness of breath.
Once again, we note that for dogs, congenital heart defects (especially serious ones) are rather an exception to the rule. Much more characteristic (and exclusively for dogs of large and giant breeds) are acquired vices. Their appearance is connected with the fact that the size of the heart of the "giants", in comparison with the dimensions of the animal itself, remained practically unchanged (compared to wolves).
Simply put, a small heart has to pump at least three times more blood than it should "according to the passport."
At first, this is leveled by compensatory hypertrophy, but with age, compensatory mechanisms begin to fail. This explains the appearance of heart murmurs in four- or six-year-old dogs. However, such noises are not always a cause for panic. Puppies also have them, since in many cubs of the botallian duct, it happens that it does not immediately overgrow.
Much more dangerous are congenital valvular defects (which, as we have already indicated, are rare even in dogs of large breeds). All of the above pathologies significantly worsen the quality of life of the animal and shorten its lifespan. However, mild cases, such as valvular stenosis, often allow the dog to live an almost full life.
Congestive heart failure
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a term used to describe a variety of conditions that prevent an organ from pumping blood normally. There is left and right handed. There are many reasons for the development of this disease.
The most common is mitral valve insufficiency (MVI), located between the left atrium and left ventricle, as well as cardiomyopathy of various etiologies (DCM).
Clinical signs are highly dependent on which side of the heart failure has developed. In all these cases, the dog becomes very tired, constantly coughing, she develops severe shortness of breath.
Right-sided congestive heart failure(RS-CHF) is accompanied by a deterioration in venous blood flow. If you do not go into details, then in this case the root of evil is the insufficient tightness of the bicuspid valve. Because of this, the heart cannot normally “push” blood into the pulmonary circulation, which is why it is not saturated with oxygen to the proper degree.
The problem is that the walls of the veins (compared to the arteries) are very thin and weak, which is why the blood, constantly pushed back into the large circle, increases the pressure in the latter. Plasma begins to seep into the chest and abdominal cavity, which does not lead to anything good.
Typically, right-sided insufficiency develops ascites, also known as "abdominal hydrops".
In addition, this variety is characterized by edematous phenomena of the chest and limbs. This is clearly seen in dogs of small breeds: such dogs "flaunt" a pear-shaped, monstrously swollen belly. In other cases, their chest literally “swells up”, the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the sternum area become plastic, loose and cold (due to edematous fluid).
With left-sided congestive heart failure(LS-CHF), respectively, the blood remains in the pulmonary circulation, "leaking" back to the lungs. This pathology is even more severe. The liquid part of the blood begins to seep into the lumen of the pulmonary alveoli, causing pulmonary edema. This causes coughing and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, the dog chokes and a large amount of white, flaky foam comes out of its mouth.
Left-sided congestive heart failure is considered the most common in dogs. If you suspect it, you need to urgently call a veterinarian: if, with mild bicuspid valve insufficiency, an animal can live for years without showing any signs of illness, then with problems with the pulmonary circulation, it may well die in just a couple of months.
Note that the symptoms of all other heart diseases are almost identical to those for congestive heart failure, which is explained by common problems: the impossibility of the "correct" pumping of blood in both circles of blood circulation.
Symptoms for an urgent visit to the veterinarian
You should immediately contact a specialist if you notice the following symptoms in your pet:
- Dry cough after little physical activity.
- Same cough, worse at night.
- Constant and severe shortness of breath.
- Weight loss. Many people think that in diseases of the heart, exhaustion develops gradually, but this is not entirely true. In severe cases, the dog can lose a lot of weight in just a couple of weeks.
- Fatigue, the dog gets very tired, even just climbing the stairs.
- Cases of fainting or "twilight" consciousness.
- The dog cannot sit, immediately beginning to choke. This should also include cases of severe bloating of the abdomen (due to ascites, that is, dropsy of the abdominal cavity).
Diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases
It is rare for a veterinarian to diagnose cardiovascular disease simply by looking at a medical history and performing a physical examination. Much more often, a serious, thoughtful interpretation of various diagnostic techniques is required.
The simplest, but very effective method, used for a couple of hundred years, is auscultation of the heart (listening).
It is performed with a stethoscope. In addition, chest x-ray, electrocardiography, and echocardiography are indicated. Finally, do not underestimate the importance of a simple examination: an experienced veterinarian may well determine many heart diseases, focusing only on their external manifestations (but this technique should not be considered absolutely reliable).
ECG and echocardiography
Electrocardiography is an excellent tool for detecting arrhythmias of various etiologies. Echocardiography is excellent for detecting neoplasms in the cardiovascular system (and in the heart itself), as well as pericardial pathologies. In complex and doubtful cases, more complex specialized techniques are used, which include cardiac catheterization or genetic studies (very expensive, but very effective).
Finally, to detect cases of infection with heartworm (and this pathology can also be referred to as pathologies of the heart), serology is used. In the blood of a dog with dirofilariasis, specific antibodies appear (but not always).
x-ray
A diagnostic technique widely used in medicine and veterinary medicine that allows you to visually assess the condition of internal organs (and not just bones, as is commonly thought). So, with contrast fluoroscopy, in which special substances are introduced into the blood, the dimensions of the heart and even its individual chambers are perfectly visible on x-rays. In addition, x-rays are just as good at assessing the condition of the lungs (especially with edema caused by heart failure).
However, this technique is not a “diagnostic panacea”, since it has many limitations. So, the detection of blackouts in the lungs does not at all guarantee that puffiness is a consequence of the pathology of the heart. In addition, even contrast radiography provides much less information about the condition of soft tissues than if compared with echocardiography.
Electrocardiography
Electrocardiography is a method that involves recording impulses passing through the heart at the time of its contraction. It is ideal for detecting cardiac arrhythmias (tachycardia and bradycardia) as well as abnormal heart rhythms (sinus arrhythmia, bundle block, etc.).
Electrocardiography is valuable in that only it can indicate the absence of impulses or the existence of some obstacles to their passage. In other ways, such violations are simply unrealistic to detect. Finally, electrocardiography helps to detect dilatation of the heart even without its visual examination, only by the results of changes in contractions on the ECG graph. Taking into account the research of recent years, many new methods for reading electrocardiography graphs have appeared, providing even more useful information to the veterinarian.
echocardiography
Echocardiography is a type of ultrasonography. The technique is perfect for assessing the condition of not only the heart, but also large vessels and lungs. With its help, you can accurately determine the volume of the heart chambers. Another advantage of echocardiography is the accurate detection of the thickness of the atria and ventricles, as well as the state of the valves of the organ. Currently, this technique has been refined so that the veterinarian can easily calculate the volume of blood flow with high accuracy.
There are three main types of echocardiography:
- 2D variant (also known as B-Mode).
- M-mode. It was used even before the appearance of the B-variety.
- Doppler echocardiography.
The most common is the two-dimensional method, when the heart model is built by cross-scanning it. More informative (and even simpler) is the M-method, in which the scanning beam is superimposed on the already known two-dimensional projection of the "standard" canine heart.
This approach simplifies the study of the organ and allows it to be carried out even in conditions of a not very well-equipped clinic. This method of assessment is usually used to measure the size of the heart chambers, the thickness of their walls, allows you to evaluate the size of the aorta and pulmonary artery, as well as assess the condition of the heart valves. It is for this reason that many veterinary clinics still practice the M-method of cardiac echocardiography, despite the existence of more modern methods.
Currently, Doppler echocardiography is most commonly used. It uses the principle of changing frequency of ultrasound after reflection of the latter from blood cells. This allows you to very accurately assess the volume of blood, determine the speed of blood flow and other parameters. However, it is worth noting that all modern devices for echocardiography allow using all three methods with equal success.
Cardiac catheterization
Cardiac catheterization involves the insertion of specialized catheters (thin, flexible tubes) into the heart, aorta, or pulmonary artery. This diagnostic method is more often used when other methods are not enough to identify certain cardiac pathologies or when the severity of the lesion needs to be identified with high accuracy.
The technique can also be used for pre-surgical assessment, testing the effectiveness of treatment, as well as in a comprehensive veterinary examination. However, in the last two cases, it is much more appropriate to limit ourselves to echocardiography. It's much easier and cheaper.
Treatment of heart disease in dogs
Contrary to popular belief, the treatment of cardiac pathologies does not in all cases involve the need for a surgical operation. Sometimes it is possible to do without it. So, in the presence of congenital valvular defects, which, however, do not cause visible manifestations of the disease, veterinarians recommend postponing the operation.
Only in serious cases (for example, severe congestive insufficiency) is surgery indispensable. The problem is that puppies with such pathologies cannot be operated on until they are at least three to four months old. With serious heart problems, they simply do not live to such an age ...
As a maintenance drug treatment, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, ACE inhibitors are prescribed. These funds significantly reduce the load on the heart, contribute to the restoration of the striated muscles of the organ and allow you to level the effects of even severe stress. Of course, the main disease of ACE inhibitors will not be cured, but they will make it possible to maintain a high quality of life for a sick dog.
Other drugs used to treat heart disease include:
- beta blockers;
- nitroglycerine;
- foxglove extract (it is used with extreme caution);
- diuretics, such as Lasix and furosemide, help keep fluid from accumulating in tissues and body cavities.
True, with diuretic drugs you need to be extremely careful. The fact is that heart pathologies, especially those that are accompanied by “jumps” in blood pressure, very often and painfully “hit” the kidneys. Frequent administration of diuretics can finally finish off the excretory system.
For breathing problems, experts often prescribe Eufillin. For the same purposes, banal caffeine-sodium benzoate and similar agents are prescribed.
It is very important to properly feed a sick animal. The dog's food should contain a sufficient amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids, magnesium and vitamin B6. Since heart surgery on dogs in real life is extremely rare (since it is very expensive), it will take a lifetime to treat a sick pet.
A chronic “core” should be brought to the veterinarian at least once a month, since in this case the specialist will be able to timely monitor the dynamics of the development of the pathological process and adjust the therapeutic course in time.
Dogs, just like people, are susceptible to cardiovascular diseases, which can occur both in young individuals and in very advanced age. Cardiovascular diseases can be congenital or acquired. You should regularly examine the dog with a veterinarian cardiologist in order to identify this condition in time and start treatment on time. Let's take a look at what they are together.
Common Symptoms of Heart Disease in Dogs
Despite the variety of reasons why cardiovascular disease can occur, there are general symptoms, and she will allow you to decide with confidence that this is precisely the problem with the heart.
- Heart disease in dogs is accompanied by a number of symptoms:
- The mucous membranes and skin become cyanotic due to lack of oxygen and circulatory disorders;
- The dog becomes very passive, instead of active games, he prefers to lie on the couch;
- When listening, heart murmurs are clearly audible;
- A variety of edema, dropsy of unknown etiology;
- Shortness of breath, tachycardia at the slightest exertion.
If you notice at least one of these symptoms in a dog, you should immediately postpone all business and seek qualified help at the Ya-VET veterinary center.
Heart disease in dogs: what are they. List
Congestive heart disease, heart disease in dogs
With a pathology such as congestive heart disease, the heart muscle can not cope with pumping blood through the circulatory system.
- Symptoms of pathology:
- saggy, swollen abdomen, which becomes such as a result of the development of ascites;
- the animal rapidly loses weight in a short period of time;
- cyanosis of the mucous membranes;
- if everything is bad, then fainting due to lack of oxygen is possible.
If you notice at least one of these symptoms, schedule a visit to the veterinarian as soon as possible, who will prescribe all the necessary studies.
Myocarditis, heart disease in dogs
Any infectious disease can provoke a disease such as myocarditis.
- The clinical picture of the disease is as follows:
- a clear violation of the rhythm;
- a hearty dry cough that does not let go of the animal for a minute;
- the dog gets tired quickly;
- normal breathing is difficult;
- the beast prefers to lie motionless for most of the day;
- additional symptoms similar to poisoning are possible.
Also, the owners should keep in mind that the disease can be divided into two stages.
- For first stage characteristic:
- tachycardia;
- extrasystole;
- pain in the region of the heart;
- the heart beat becomes stronger.
On the second stage the push of the heart muscles is significantly weakened, which can be seen on the ECG, which can be done at the Ya-VET veterinary center and find out everything about the condition of the pet's heart.
Myocardosis, heart disease in dogs
The etiology of this disease is not inflammatory at all. Doctors suggest treating this condition based on the situation, choosing the drug based on the symptoms. The causes of this condition are still not exactly clarified and thousands of scientists continue to study them.
- However symptoms of myocardial disease in dogs may be as follows:
- shortness of breath, blue mucous membranes and skin;
- venous pressure increases significantly, while arterial pressure drops significantly;
- the pulse becomes indistinct, weak;
- if the process is strongly started, then the push is weak and is not felt as it should be.
Diagnosis is carried out in the same way, with the help of ECG, ultrasound and similar studies that can be carried out in our veterinary center "I-VET".
Endocarditis, heart disease in dogs
Myocardial infarction, heart disease in dogs
myocardial infarction The disease does not only occur in humans. Dogs are also affected by it. This heart disease is characterized by the fact that the blood flow to a certain area of the heart stops and a real emergency occurs, which requires the immediate intervention of specialists from the Ya-VET veterinary center. If the area of soft tissue damage is not large, then the dog has significant chances for salvation, which must be used without fail. Otherwise, a fatal outcome is possible and doctors can only state the death of the animal.
Diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, heart disease in dogs
The doctor may prescribe a variety of diagnostic methods depending on the result of the internal examination:
- ECG - will allow you to track the frequency of contractions of the heart muscle;
- Ultrasound - will allow you to notice even the smallest heart defects and quickly eliminate them;
- A biochemical blood test will allow you to track the slightest changes in the composition of the red liquid and promptly prescribe the necessary drugs.
Using all these methods and a visual examination by a doctor, you can get a 100% reliable result in the shortest possible time.
Which dogs are most prone to heart disease?
heart disease can hit absolutely any dog, from the Tibetan Mastiff to the Maltese. Heart disease does not depend on age. They are able to strike both the old and the young creature. Here, one should only hope for luck and efficiency of veterinarians. If in the first case it is impossible to influence the situation in any way, then in the second one you can contact the Ya-VET veterinary center, because it is here that experienced cardiologists work, who are ready to provide qualified assistance related to heart problems at any time of the day.
It is possible to leave even late at night, because, as you know, the likelihood of heart attacks occurs in the predawn time. Remember that the slightest sign of cardiovascular disease should not be ignored! A minute of delay can cost the animal's life.
How to choose a veterinary center for the treatment of a pet - heart disease in dogs
Treatment of cardiovascular diseases you should trust the veterinary center that has unconditional trust, as well as your own veterinary cardiologist who will guide your animal from the onset of the disease to the victorious end. And if the treatment is successful, the veterinarian can recommend a special diet that will not allow your beloved friend to gain excess weight, but will be able to maintain his health.
Nutrition for cardiovascular diseases, heart disease in dogs
Nutrition for heart disease in dogs should be low-calorie, easily digestible, an abundance of proteins is only welcome. Proteins will help restore normal metabolism and make the dog more resilient and healthy. At first, after surgery (if necessary), it is recommended to feed the animal with semi-liquid food through a syringe without a needle, gradually making the consistency more and more solid.
- The diet is allowed to include:
- kefir;
- dairy products;
- boiled chicken;
- boiled vegetables;
- lean meat (little);
- maybe the dog will like soaked dried apricots. It is a source of potassium for both humans and animals. Offer 1-2 items per week.
All these products should be given carefully and only in those proportions and quantities that will be prescribed by a veterinarian, and even better a cardiologist. After all, it is cardiologists who are most closely involved in the study of heart disease.
Heart disease in dogs. How to help a pet?
A trip to the veterinary center for heart disease in dogs, even with the most kind atmosphere, is a colossal stress for a four-legged friend. That is why our doctors "Ya-VET" use modern technologies in the world of veterinary medicine with might and main in order to minimize the stress from the ongoing medical procedures. ECG, ultrasound can now be done at home. Also, in addition to the veterinarian, you can invite other specialists to your home who will be happy to help solve the problem:
- A cardiologist is a specialist in cardiovascular diseases.
- Dentist.
- Nephrologist.
- Endocrinologist.
- Neurologist.
- Ophthalmologist.
- Uzist.
- Nurse.
The departure of each such doctor must be paid separately. A cardiologist is a narrow-profile specialist who has a deeper knowledge in his field than an ordinary veterinarian.
Good day. Pug girl, 2 years old. An ultrasound showed an enlarged heart. Is it dangerous for life, how to continue to live, what kind of care is needed? Thanks in advance. Regards, Tatiana.
Answer
An increase in the size of the heart occurs periodically in dogs. Often, a pathological condition is detected during an ultrasound examination of the heart. The correct name for an enlarged heart in a dog is dilated cardiomyopathy. It is characterized by the expansion of the heart chambers and the development of heart failure. Adults get sick.
The exact cause of the disease could not be established. The pug may develop swelling, expansion of the chest, shortness of breath and increased heart rate. The main diagnostic study will be ultrasound. On ultrasound, a pathognomonic sign is determined - an increase in the size of the heart and expansion of its boundaries, which occurs evenly in all departments. Cardiac muscle cells are involved in the process.
What is dangerous heart enlargement
Enlargement of the heart is due to various reasons. The mechanism of development and symptoms are reduced to factors:
- Deterioration of blood circulation in the vessels of a large or small circle.
- Deterioration of the heart muscle.
- Stagnation and development of heart failure.
Symptoms of right ventricular failure in dogs:
- Abdominal enlargement due to ascites and hepatomegaly.
- Fluid accumulates in the pleura, hydrothorax develops, which interferes with the normal function of breathing in a pug.
- Left ventricular failure results in shortness of breath and coughing in the animal. The dog becomes lethargic, the mucous membranes turn pale, the dog quickly loses body weight.
Severe forms of the course of the disease are fraught with frequent fainting and loss of consciousness. In some cases, the pug falls into a coma. Pathological factors lead to a gradual depletion of the energy potential of myocardial cells and the loss of compensatory capabilities of myocardiocytes. Developing rhythm disturbances, especially ventricular extrasystoles, lead to the death of the animal. The phenomena of ventricular fibrillation often develop.
How to treat an enlarged heart
Pet treatment is seen as lifelong and carefully monitored by a veterinarian. If symptoms of heart failure occur, the pug is treated with digitalis or digitalis preparations. Digitoxin is prescribed in tablet form, counting on a kilogram of animal weight. Digoxin can be prescribed in tablets, in drops. Drops of Lantozid are prescribed at the rate of 1 drop per 2 kilograms of the dog's body weight. On the first day, an increased dose of the drug is given.
Do not try to give the dog drugs on your own, they are highly toxic, if the dosage is violated, they will harm the pet. Treatment takes place under the supervision of an experienced veterinarian. In parallel, the veterinarian prescribes preparations containing magnesium and potassium ions - for example, Asparkam or Panangin. For severe edema, Furosemide is used. The physical activity of the dog should be reduced, as well as the daily amount of fluid intake. This helps to compensate for the manifestations of heart failure. Lifelong treatment.
How to care for an animal
If a doctor has found an increase in the size of the heart in a pet, careful care will be required. It is supposed to reduce physical activity, so as not to provoke an increase in the phenomena of heart failure. Walking time should be limited.
The nature of nutrition is important for the health of the pug. It is necessary to exclude fatty foods, heavy foods from the diet. Dog food is provided easily digestible and rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Consult your veterinarian - he will recommend special feeds intended for the therapeutic nutrition of dogs suffering from cardiomyopathies. Long-term use of special feeds leads to an improvement in the health of the dog.
Recently, amino acids and enzymatic preparations have been widely used, which have shown excellent results in the treatment of cardiac pathology in pets. Thanks to the drugs, the blood supply to the myocardium improves and the metabolism in cardiomyocytes is restored.
L-carnitine is recognized as one of the well-known and affordable. In some cases, the tool significantly improves the health of the dog.
Features of caring for pugs
For a pug, diseases of the cardiovascular system are recognized as a weak point. In order for the pet to please its company longer, you will need to carefully follow the listed recommendations and appointments of the attending veterinarian. Unfortunately, the disease cannot be completely cured. There are no methods of primary prevention of the disease. Regular care will improve the quality of life of the pet and make it happy and comfortable.
The diet of a pug is necessarily enriched with vitamins that have the properties of antioxidants - A, E, C. The drugs slow down the aging of the dog's body, improve well-being and the condition of the heart and blood vessels. To prevent congestion, give the animal moderate physical activity. After each walk, it is shown to carefully examine the dog and carry out hygiene procedures.
Simple rules can prolong the joy of communicating with a pet for a good 4-5 years. For a loving owner, this is important.
In the hot summer period, dog lovers are increasingly faced with such a pathological phenomenon as heart failure, including its exacerbation.
The main symptoms are:
- thirst and increased fatigue;
- rapid breathing;
- cough, not associated with colds;
- loss of consciousness, which can be both during quiet walks and after excessive activity.
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The main reasons for the development of heart failure can be various cardiopathies, congenital heart defects, inflammation of the heart tissue, as well as mitral valve endocardiosis.
Mitral valve endocardiosis is the most common cardiac pathology in dogs. Dogs of small breeds are especially predisposed to the disease: dachshunds, chihuahuas, Yorkshire terriers, toy poodles and Pekingese. Clinical signs in these dogs may appear as early as 5 years of age. For large dogs - St. Bernards, Newfoundlands, Dobermans, Boxers, cardiomyopathies of various origins are more characteristic. It should be noted that in Dobermans and Boxers the disease can be asymptomatic, so it is recommended to regularly conduct preventive examinations and diagnostic tests of your pet.
The editors of "Cherny Nos" asked Darya Vladimirovna Golovko, a veterinary cardiologist at Dr. Lapshin's clinic, to answer several topical questions:
- First of all, I would like to know how to avoid exacerbation of heart failure in the summer? What preventive measures are in place?
In the summer, especially on hot days, it is better to walk the dogs early in the morning and late in the evening, limit the duration of car trips, and always have a bottle of water with you. Never leave animals in a car with the windows closed.
- If, nevertheless, the dog became ill, what first aid can the owner himself provide before visiting the veterinary clinic?
If in a hot time the animal has sudden shortness of breath, lethargy, it is necessary to move the animal to a shade or cool room, ensure peace, then immediately deliver the animal to the clinic.
- What are the first manifestations of heart failure should alert the owner of the dog and how urgently do you need to seek help from a veterinarian?
The first sign of heart failure in dogs is increased fatigue, there may also be honest, hoarse breathing, often with an open mouth, even in cool weather, pale gums and tongue, cough, intense thirst, and short-term loss of consciousness after exercise.
At what age can the first signs of heart failure appear?
With congenital heart defects, symptoms of heart failure may appear at an early age, with age-related changes in the heart - usually after 7-8 years.
- What diagnostic studies must be carried out in a veterinary clinic in order to make a diagnosis of heart failure?
If a diagnosis of heart failure is suspected, after a clinical examination of the animal, it is necessary to do electrocardiography, chest x-ray, echocardiography, take general clinical and biochemical blood tests.
- In the treatment of heart failure, diuretics are often prescribed, which somewhat complicates the life of the owner. In your opinion, how necessary are they in the treatment of cardiac pathology?
In the treatment of congestive heart failure, diuretics are necessary; without their use, the quality of life of the animal deteriorates significantly.
- What drugs for the treatment of heart failure have worked well in dogs? Are they rare in the pharmaceutical market and what is their cost?
The most commonly used drugs for the treatment of chronic heart failure are ACE inhibitors (enalapril, benazepril, monopril>, diuretics (furosemide, veroshliron, diuver), antiarrhythmic drugs (atenolol, diltiazem). The dosage is calculated by the doctor individually. Such drugs are used to treat chronic heart failure in humans, they can be found in any pharmacy.The cost of drugs depends on the manufacturer.
Newspaper "Black nose" № 4 2011
Posted with the permission of Anna Eremeeva, Editor-in-Chief
HEART FAILURE IN DOGS. Treatment of heart failure in older dogs
The third group of diseases
often occurs in dogs after 8 years and proceeds with well-marked symptoms: coughing, wheezing when breathing, increased respiratory rate, increased thirst, impaired coordination, loss of consciousness.
What should alarm the owner
adult dog
- Deaf cough (with the exception of colds).
- Loss of coordination, unsteady gait.
- Breathing with an open mouth in a cool room.
- Anxiety, combined with shortness of breath, rapid breathing.
- Weakness, refusal to eat, rare breathing.
- Breathing with an open mouth with a noticeable blue tongue (this is a reason to call emergency veterinary care).
- The dog has changed the position of the forelimbs: it spreads its elbows wide, they seem to be turned outward.
The volume of the abdomen has increased.
There are breeds that are particularly prone to heart disease. This does not mean that all these dogs end up with a heart attack. They just have heart failure more often and at an earlier age than others. And it doesn't mean that dogs of other breeds don't know what heartache is.
The “risk group” primarily includes dogs of giant breeds. These are Great Danes, St. Bernards, Newfoundlands. As a rule, they have heart problems for two reasons: from excessive physical exertion or, conversely, from a lack of exercise. In both cases, the dog's heart fails ahead of time.
Sport, of course, is useful for everyone, but it is very difficult to calculate the load for dogs, especially for those who are not adapted for running. Yesterday's load today can become unbearable, and as a result - a breakdown. These breakdowns are always unexpected and take owners by surprise. It must be remembered that the main condition for keeping "giants" is moderation. Both in exercise and in food.
Unlike large dogs, dwarf breeds are more likely to suffer from emotional overload. Everyone who keeps such dogs at home knows that these creatures are quite nervous, and sometimes even hysterical. Most likely, this is the reason for their frequent heart troubles. They are timid (strive to bark at everyone), sensual and terribly jealous. When you pick up your pet for the first time, know that it is for life. This is your joy, your happiness, this is your cross.
For these crumbs, the consciousness of their exclusivity and even uniqueness is important. Do not try to praise another dog in their presence, and even more so to stroke it. This will be an irreparable mistake on your part. And although dogs are better at forgiving than we are, we should not tempt fate. Remember that for such little ones, the best medicine is love. And, of course, often ask the veterinarians to listen to your dog's heart.
Cardiac examination
The main criterion for a correct cardiological examination is a comprehensive study. It is impossible to make a diagnosis - congenital heart disease - only after auscultation (listening with a phonendoscope). Cardiological examination begins with a general examination and auscultation. This is followed by an X-ray examination of the chest, then the doctor examines the ECG and, if the device allows, then monitoring for at least 10-15 minutes to detect cardiac arrhythmias. The final stage of the examination is an ultrasound of the heart. Each method carries its own information, combining it with a cardiologist can make the correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment.
After taking cardiac drugs, it is necessary to control the condition, i.e., it is necessary to repeat the ECG to determine the effectiveness of the treatment. It often happens that during a mandatory examination before a planned operation, an ECG is taken for the dog and heart disorders are detected that did not manifest themselves clinically and the owner did not notice them, but during a subsequent survey, they recall, for example, that occasionally the dog coughs at night or breathes often after walking, in no way can't catch his breath when he gets home.
- Clinical examination.
Clinical examination is the first diagnostic method to help choose the right direction for further objective diagnostic tests.
During a clinical examination, the veterinarian conducts:
- Examination at a distance - look at the respiratory rate and its phases, assess the size of the abdomen and body condition, limit the examination and provide oxygen support if necessary.
- Examination of the muzzle - examine the wings of the nose, if there are any outflows, evaluate the color of the oral mucosa and the capillary filling time, assess consciousness.
- Examination of the pharynx - palpate the thyroid gland. examine the jugular veins for filling or pulsation. palpate the trachea and try to induce a cough reflex.
- Examination of the extremities - to assess the frequency and quality of the pulse and its synchronism with the heart, assess the skin and peripheral temperature.
- Examination of the abdomen - exclude other diseases. gastrointestinal disorders, and the like.
- Auscultation - to begin with, you always need to put your palms on your chest to feel the vibration or displacement of the heart impulse. Auscultation can detect murmurs, gallop rhythm, arrhythmias, and abnormal breath sounds.
Chest X-ray.
A chest x-ray is a simple and extremely important diagnostic test for animals with cough or dyspnea. Obtaining and interpreting high quality chest radiographs should be a top priority.
When dyspnea is life-threatening, it should be corrected before radiography if indicated. Performing X-rays on critically ill animals can be fatal. In such cases, primary treatment is carried out first based on the history, visual examination of respiratory phases and clinical signs.
Regardless of the cause of dyspnea, oxygen supportive therapy is desirable. If radiography is indicated, but it is not possible to perform it in all projections, preference is given to the least stressful, i.e. dorsoventral.
Never lay an animal with shortness of breath on its side!
Most of the problems that arise in the interpretation of chest wall radiographs are due to errors in animal positioning, exposure, and film development. It is advisable to try to perform radiography in at least 2 projections, although in emergency cases or risky situations, you can limit yourself to a dorsoventral image.
Radiography is equally useful for diagnosing left-sided and/or right-sided heart failure.
Reggenodiagnosis is based on the detection of the following signs:
1. Expansion of veins. Dilatation of both pulmonary veins or the caudal vena cava is a very indicative sign of left- or right-sided insufficiency, respectively.
2. Cardiomegaly or enlargement of the heart.
3. Pulmonary pattern consistent with heart failure. Pulmonary edema usually develops gradually. Primarily edematous fluid exudes into the interstitial space, causing a "downy" appearance of the lung parenchyma. Usually this phenomenon begins with the region of the roots of the lungs. With the development of edema, fluid penetrates into the alveoli, causing compaction of the lung tissue, usually in the caudal dorsal lobes (usually more intense on the right than on the left). In exceptionally severe cases, diffuse edema may make it impossible to determine the silhouettes of the heart and pulmonary veins.
Electrocardiography.
In addition to radiography, ECG is very useful for the successful diagnosis and subsequent treatment of high-risk cardiac patients.
The ECG is considered to be a fast and relatively cheap method for determining heart rate and heart rate, as well as a valuable monitoring tool. Heart rhythm disturbances such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular and ventricular extrasystoles, tachyarrhythmias are common in heart failure. ECG also allows you to evaluate information about the increase in the cavities of the heart, the state of the conduction system and myocardium. The ECG is of the greatest value for clarifying the type of arrhythmia detected during physical examination.
Ultrasound (echocardiography).
Echocardiography, although not the main method for diagnosing heart failure. is considered a useful non-invasive (non-stress) method for diagnosing serious structural heart disease.
Echocardiography is a valuable technique for visualizing the anatomy of the heart (2D echo) to qualitatively and quantitatively determine systolic and diastolic function (M-mode, spectral Doppler echogram) and blood flow (color and spectral Doppler echogram).
Central venous pressure (CVP).
CVP is the pressure inside large veins just before they empty into the right atrium. CVP is usually measured using an 8 to 12-inch catheter placed through the jugular vein. CVP is a valuable test for measuring right ventricular preload (and thus function). Many pathological processes can cause right heart failure (eg, pericardial effusion and tamponade, tricuspid valve insufficiency, DCM, etc.), and, as a result, ascites and/or pleural effusion can also affect the increase in CVP. In addition, there are iatrogenic causes of increased CVP: excessive fluid infusion, inadequate compression of the chest or abdomen (bandage), excessive pressure during mechanical ventilation. In pleural effusions or ascites of unclear origin, CVP is the definitive test to rule out right heart failure as the cause of fluid accumulation. In cases where cardiac function is questionable and massive infusions are indicated (eg, older dogs with murmurs or renal insufficiency, trauma patients with cardiac arrhythmias, etc.), CVP is a valuable tool for fluid therapy. CVP measurement is a valuable diagnostic technique for veterinary medicine.
None of these methods of research is "superfluous" or "main". Only their combination with general clinical studies (clinical analysis of blood and urine, biochemical blood test) will allow the veterinarian to assess the degree of development of the pathology, the prognosis of the course of the disease and the treatment plan.
All dogs, without exception, are perfectly oriented in our mood. All our joys and sorrows and troubles they empathize with us. Therefore, if you want to see your pet healthy, try to have a good mood more often.
Diagnosis and treatment of heart failure in dogs
(ratings: 4. average: 4.75 out of 5)
In adult dogs of large breeds, a pathological condition often occurs in which the heart cannot provide sufficient blood circulation. All tissues of the body, primarily the brain, suffer from a lack of oxygen and nutrients. This disease is heart failure in dogs.
Etiology of the disease
The causes of heart failure are a variety of pathologies of the cardiovascular system: myocarditis, pericarditis, congenital malformations, arterial hypertension, cardiosclerosis, myocardial infarction, some types of helminthiasis, etc. The main danger is congestion in the animal's heart. They cause irreversible changes in the myocardium and severe complications.
There are breeds that are predisposed to heart disease: boxers, spaniels, fox terriers, schnauzers, poodles, shepherds, dobermans, collies, English bulldogs, almost all small breeds, St. Bernards, Samoyeds, Mastiffs, Newfoundlands. Most of the representatives of these species at different ages manifest heart failure.
Distinguish between acute and chronic heart failure in dogs. An acute condition occurs more often against the background of the underlying disease. After treatment, the pathology can be eliminated. The chronic course of the disease is characterized by periodicity, when exacerbations are replaced by remission at certain intervals.
Heart failure symptoms
The manifestation and intensity of symptoms depends on the age of the animal, the cause of the disturbances in the work of the heart and the presence of concomitant diseases.
Signs of illness in puppies
The cause of the disease in puppyhood is congenital heart defects. The disease can lead to the death of the dog if not treated on time. The owner of the puppy should contact the veterinarian if there are alarming moments in the behavior of the pet:
- poor appetite, drowsiness, weight loss;
- after active games, the puppy becomes lethargic, breathes often and heavily. Possible wheezing and shortness of breath;
- blue tongue, heavy breathing even during rest;
- fainting.
All these signs signal a weakening of the heart muscle of a young dog and require a thorough diagnosis.
Signs of illness in older dogs
In mature middle-aged animals, the disease can occur as a complication of past infections and severe comorbidities. In such cases, they speak of acquired heart failure, which in some cases develops in a latent form. To detect the disease at an early stage, it is necessary to monitor the behavior and well-being of the pet. In case of genetic predisposition, periodic examinations are recommended.
The following signs indicate a weakening of cardiac activity:
- lethargy and weakness of a normally energetic dog;
- shortness of breath even at rest;
- fainting;
- cough, reminiscent of vomiting;
- fast weight gain;
- intense thirst.
These symptoms may appear as early as stage 2 or 3 of the disease. Initial changes are diagnosed only by x-ray and ECG results.
Manifestations of the disease in older dogs
Heart failure in older dogs is caused by age-related changes in the body. Symptoms are pronounced and do not go unnoticed by a loving owner:
- impaired coordination of movements;
- severe dull cough;
- staggering when walking;
- frequent noisy breathing, open mouth;
- restlessness, weakness, loss of appetite;
- When walking, the dog spreads its elbows wide. They look turned inside out;
- big belly.
The veterinarian will conduct a comprehensive examination and prescribe a course of treatment to restore the health of the animal. With timely treatment to the doctor, the dog will live with its owner for several more years.
Chronic heart failure develops against the background of existing diseases. It is characterized by a slow increase in symptoms. The first and main symptom of pathology is a chronic cough. An acute condition develops within a few hours. If the dog is not given timely assistance, cardiogenic pulmonary edema may develop. A bloody liquid begins to ooze from the mouth and nose of the dog.
Treatment
You can start treatment for heart failure only after examining the animal by a veterinarian. Even the most expensive medicines that a caring owner will buy for his sick dog can aggravate his condition. The doctor will identify the cause of the dog's malaise and give recommendations on its maintenance and care.
Dogs of all ages should reduce physical activity. Walks are reduced to 20-30 minutes, constantly monitoring the heart rate (pulse). When the diagnosis is confirmed, the animal's diet is reviewed, limiting the intake of salt and liquids.
Drug therapy includes taking several groups of drugs:
- cardiac glycosides (digoxin). They are appointed for life;
- potassium preparations. These drugs normalize the metabolism in the myocardium;
- chimes. Anticoagulant - a substance that prevents blood clotting;
- vitamins;
- diuretic drugs to relieve edema: uregit, furosemide, spironolactone;
- with persistent edema, ethacrynic acid is prescribed;
- in case of an acute heart attack, camphor, caffeine are injected subcutaneously; into the muscle cordiamine, sulfocamphocaine.
Prevention of heart failure
Dogs of all breeds at risk should be regularly examined by a cardiologist. This is especially true for dwarf dogs. They are more receptive emotionally and subject to frequent stress. Also, observation will not harm animals older than 6-8 years and anyone who has any problems with the cardiovascular system.
A loving and caring owner knows the nature of his pet, his habits and norms of behavior. Any deviations in the state of health will be immediately visible and understandable. Do not try to diagnose and treat the dog yourself. Only a qualified veterinarian can help an animal live a long and fulfilling life.
