subject: Common Collie Health Problems [print this page] As with any type of dog there's often the threat of overall health problems. With the Collie you will find unique health problems, such as Collie nose, CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia), CEA (Collie eye abnormalities), Epilepsy, Bloat and also Kennel Cough.
Collie nose is a issue that causes skin lesions on the nose, lip area and eyelids. This condition is a result of a lack of skin pigment and is aggravated by sunlight. Remedy can include applications of sunscreen, limited direct exposure to direct sunlight as well as permanent tattooing of the skin to make the pigment darker.
As a consequence of the Collie being a big particular breed of dog they have a increased risk for certain health concerns, one of which is Canine Hip Dysplasia, in which you can find an abnormal development of the hip joint. This will typically emerge right after eight months of age once the Collie actually reaches skeletal maturity.
Probable causes might be inherited genes, lack of activity, very poor diet or being overweight. Dogs that are given very little exercise and provided a reduced protein dog food have both a lack of activity and also a inadequate diet and may have a increased likelihood of getting Canine Hip Dysplasia then that of an active canine who is provided a healthy diet. Canine Hip Dysplasia can often have a very gradual or sudden onset and can from time to time bring about extreme pain. This may be clinically determined with an x-ray of the hips.
Untreated, it can easily end up in severe lameness and arthritis, that can both end up being very painful. A preventive therapy for CHD includes keeping your dog active, on a wholesome food plan and also weight management. Treatment plans can involve medicine or surgical treatment.
CEA (Collie eye abnormalities) is an inherited condition caused by a hereditary defect, and is when the eyes do not develop normally. It involves the cornea, sclera and retina. Collie eye abnormality may have minor consequences or total blindness; regrettably there is no treatment for this disease. There are tests that can be carried out on the parents to evaluate the possibilities of the offspring getting this issue before breeding the animal.
Collie health problems may also involve epilepsy, which is actually a neurological condition that causes the development of seizures. Epilepsy might be either a congenital (inherited) or acquired disease. The seizures may be controlled with medicine.
Bloat may be a serious issue which will involve gastric dilation, where the stomach fills with air and puts strain on the various other organs. When this takes place the stomach can distort and pinch off the blood supply to the stomach. When this takes place the health of the dog will deteriorate rapidly. This condition requires immediate assistance of a veterinarian and is really painful to the pet, not to mention expensive.
Kennel Cough is mostly a dry cough coupled with thick nasal drainage, fever and listlessness. This might be brought on by one of several variables, including overloaded kennels and a stress filled atmosphere. Fortunately, this problem can quickly be taken care of utilizing a course of antibiotics.
As you can see there are numerous health issues for the Collie, as there are with any dog. Trying to keep Collie health problems from affecting your Collie is often as easy as using a great physical exercise and diet plan. Always keep kennels thoroughly clean and roomy, and pay attention to your Collie so you will be quick to recognize unusual behavior. These easy steps can help to assure that you as well as your Collie will enjoy lots of wonderful years together.