Most families in the United States own a dog and, in fact, it is not uncommon to own several dogs in one household. If you are looking forward to adopting a pet it is important that you become aware of the many health complications that may arise in your dog, especially conditions involving hypertension and heart disease. Being aware of the health issues your pet might face will keep you alert to any symptoms that they might develop and prevents the condition from worsening.
One of the most common afflictions that affect domestic animals is hypertension. This is not something that affects only human beings and, in fact, many domestic animals suffer from hypertension. In family dogs, hypertension develops primarily out of the presence of an underlying disease. Generally speaking, there are two broad categories of hypertension. Essential hypertension is that which happens due to poor lifestyle choices and some people may be genetically predisposed to contracting hypertension. This type of hypertension is more common among humans and not as common among your family dog and other domestic animals.
Secondary hypertension is more common among dogs and this arises in situations due to any underlying disease such as renal failure or kidney complications.
If you are planning to adopt a dog it is important that you take your dog in for regular check-ups with a veterinarian. Regular examination of your dog ensures that afflictions, if any, can be detected early on and treatment can be started immediately. A veterinarian can routinely check the blood pressure of your dog and after other examinations to keep you informed about its health condition.
If your dog is suffering from hypertension you can ask your vet to check if kidney disease is the reason behind it. Your doctor will conduct appropriate tests to determine the cause of the hypertension and will recommend suitable treatment. If it is diagnosed early the kidney condition can be treated and your pet will not have to resort to any medicines for hypertension. It is important, therefore, that you keep a tab on your dog’s health and start immediate treatment if the doctor diagnoses any disorder in your pet’s cardiovascular system.
Sources: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 9th ed., pp. 115-117.