Breed Health
L-2-HGA
(L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria)
L-2-HGA (L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria) in Staffordshire Bull Terriers is a neurometabolic disorder characterised by elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine, plasma and cerebrospinal fluid.
L-2-HGA affects the central nervous system, with clinical signs usually
apparent between 6 months and one year (although they can appear
later). Symptoms include epileptic seizures, "wobbly" gait, tremors,
muscle stiffness as a result of exercise or excitement and altered
behaviour.
The mutation, or change to the structure of the gene, probably occurred
spontaneously in a single dog but once in the population has been
inherited from generation to generation like any other gene. The
disorder shows an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance: two copies
of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have to be
present for a dog to be affected by the disease. Individuals with one
copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called
carriers - show no symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their
offspring. When two apparently healthy carriers are crossed, 25% (on
average) of the offspring will be affected by the disease, 25% will be
clear and the remaining 50% will themselves be carriers
The mutation responsible for the disease has recently been identified
at the Animal Health Trust. Using the information from this research,
we have developed a DNA test for the disease. This test not only
diagnoses dogs affected with this disease but can also detect those
dogs which are carriers, displaying no symptoms of the disease but able
to produce affected pups. Carriers could not be detected by the tests
previously available which involved either a blood or urine test
detecting elevated levels of L-2-hydroxyglutarate or magnetic resonance
imaging. Under most circumstances, there will be a much greater number
of carriers than affected animals in a population. It is important to
eliminate such carriers from a breeding population since they represent
a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce affected dogs at any
time.
The test is available now and information on submitting samples is
given below.
Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as belonging to one
of three categories:
CLEAR/NORMAL: the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and will neither develop L-2-HGA, nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring.
CLEAR/NORMAL: the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and will neither develop L-2-HGA, nor pass a copy of the L-2-HGA gene to any of its offspring.
CARRIER:
the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene
that causes L-2-HGA. It will not develop L-2-HGA but will pass on the
L-2-HGA gene to 50% (on average) of its offspring.
AFFECTED:
the dog has two copies of the L-2-HGA mutation and is affected with
L-2-HGA. It will develop L-2-HGA at some stage during its lifetime,
assuming it lives to an appropriate age.
Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs. On average, 50% of such a
litter will be clear and 50% carriers; there can be no affecteds
produced from such a mating. Pups which will be used for breeding can
themselves be DNA tested to determine whether they are clear or
carrier.
Hereditary Cataract
Hereditary Cataractin Staffordshire Bull Terriers has been recognised
as an inherited condition since the late 1970's. Affected dogs develop
cataracts in both eyes at an early age. The condition is not
congenital, so the lenses are normal at birth but cataracts appear at a
few weeks to months in age, progressing to total cataract (and
resulting blindness) by 2 to 3 years of age.
The mutation, or change to the structure of the gene, probably occurred
spontaneously in a single dog but once in the population has been
inherited from generation to generation like any other gene. The
disorder shows an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance: two copies
of the defective gene (one inherited from each parent) have to be
present for a dog to be affected by the disease. Individuals with one
copy of the defective gene and one copy of the normal gene - called
carriers - show no symptoms but can pass the defective gene onto their
offspring. When two apparently healthy carriers are crossed, 25% (on
average) of the offspring will be affected by the disease, 25% will be
clear and the remaining 50% will themselves be carriers
The mutation responsible for the disease has recently been identified
at the Animal Health Trust. Using the information from this research,
we have developed a DNA test for the disease. This test not only
diagnoses dogs affected with the disease but can also detect those dogs
which are carriers, displaying no symptoms of the disease but able to
produce affected pups. Under most circumstances, there will be a much
greater number of carriers than affected animals in a population. It is
important to eliminate such carriers from a breeding population since
they represent a hidden reservoir of the disease that can produce
affected dogs at any time.
The test is available now and information on submitting samples is
given below.
Breeders will be sent results identifying their dog as belonging to one
of three categories:
CLEAR/NORMAL:
the dog has 2 copies of the normal gene and will neither develop
Hereditary Cataract, nor pass a copy of the Hereditary Cataract gene to
any of its offspring.
CARRIER:
the dog has one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutant gene
that causes Hereditary Cataract. It will not develop Hereditary
Cataract but will pass on the Hereditary Cataract gene to 50% (on
average) of its offspring.
AFFECTED:
the dog has two copies of the Hereditary Cataract mutation and is
affected with Hereditary Cataract. It will develop Hereditary Cataract
at some stage during its lifetime, assuming it lives to an appropriate
age.
Carriers can still be bred to clear dogs. On average, 50% of such a
litter will be clear and 50% carriers; there can be no affecteds
produced from such a mating. Pups which will be used for breeding can
themselves be DNA tested to determine whether they are clear or
carrier.
Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV)
This was first described in
Staffords in the 1980's although there are earlier reports of it in
Dobermanns in Holland . PHPV is the failure of the blood vessels
supplying the developing eye of the puppy in the womb to wither and
disappear completely by the time it is born. The amount of material
remaining is variable. In mild cases there may just be some spots, or
possibly a small encapsulated cataract, behind the lens while more
severe cases will have greater quantities of residue from the foetal
blood vessels. In Staffords, mildly affected dogs are unlikely to have
any further problems and will go through life as if nothing was amiss.
However more severe cases have a high risk of problems, such as the
development of secondary cataracts, which may lead to loss of vision.
Both eyes are usually affected, as with HC, but unilateral cases with
only one eye involved are not uncommon with PHPV, especially if mild.
There is little doubt that PHPV in an inherited condition. There have
been several suggestions for its mode of transmission but none have
been substantiated so for the moment we have to accept, We simply do
not know.
Hip dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia: is a crippling condition in which laxness in the hip
joint causes premature breakdown of the cartilage lining, leading to
arthritis. The tendency to hip dysplasia can be passed on from one
generation to the next; researchers believe that it is a
polygenic-based disorder, having more than one causative gene. Symptoms
may include difficulty jumping or using stairs; unusual stiffness after
exercise and a peculiar bunny-hopping, gait. While there is a strong
hereditary component to this affliction, many believe environmental
factors, such as overfeeding leading to too-rapid growth in puppies,
can cause the condition to progress much more rapidly if a genetic
tendency is already present. Often, the effects of mild hip dysplasia
are not seen until the dog is middle-age or older, and can be managed
by weight control and anti-inflammatory medications. Occasionally,
however, puppies and young dogs can show symptoms of hip dysplasia
which are rapidly progressive and crippling; special surgical
techniques have been developed for these dogs to help them lead a more
normal and pain-free life. According to the latest OFA statistics
(2006), with 379 Staffords having been evaluated using hip x-rays,
16.2% are rated abnormal (dysplastic), and 80.2% have both hips graded
normal. Since this is at least partially a hereditary condition,
careful breeding will reduce its incidence in a breed over time. If
both parents have normal hips, there is a lessened possibility for one
or more puppies in a litter to be later rated dysplastic.
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow Dysplasia: The term elbow dysplasia is used to describe a
degenerative disorder of the elbow joint caused by improper development
of a portion of a particular bone in this joint (anconeal process of
the ulna). Young dogs that have this condition often exhibit pain when
jumping or turning quickly, or may show variable foreleg lameness. It
is thought to be hereditary in nature, and tends to run in canine
families. However, exogenous causes, such as over feeing a puppy into
too-rapid growth, may be partially to blame as well, especially if a
genetic tendency is present. Injury to the joint might also be a cause.
Depending upon the age of the dog, the actual cause, and the severity
of the symptoms, treatment can include modalities ranging from
anti-inflammatories medications up to surgery. According to the latest
OFA statistics (2006), with 105 Staffords having been evaluated using
elbow x-rays, 14.3% of these Staffords have elbow dysplasia, while
84.8% are rated as having normal elbows.
Patellar Luxation
Patellar luxation is a condition in which the patella, or kneecap, of
the dog's stifle joint frequently luxates or pops out of place.
Depending upon the severity, symptoms can be intermittent and mild
throughout the dog's life, with the only evidence of the condition an
occasional funny kick of the dog's hind leg, or it may eventually
lead to severe, permanent degenerative changes in the joint including
arthritis. Infrequently, onset may appear to be sudden, leaving the dog
unable to stand on the affected hindleg(s). Patellar luxation is
believed to be hereditary, as well, although the exact mode of
transmission is uncertain. According to the latest OFA statistics
(2006), with 21 Staffords having been evaluated radiographically (using
x-rays), 100% were evaluated as normal. However, these statistics are
considered misleading, not only because of the small sample size
evaluated, but also because patellar luxation is known for certain to
occasionally be found in this breed.
Atopic dermatitis
(skin allergy)
Atopic dermatitis
(skin allergy): Certain Staffords are prone to various skin allergies,
causing them to bite, scratch, and lick their itchy places continually
until the source of the problem is corrected by the owner or their vet.
An afflicted dog may lose huge patches of hair or develop large lick
sore in the process. Secondary infections may then occur in the raw,
exposed skin. A flea bite allergy often plays a considerable role in
this condition; aggressive flea control measures (both on the dog and
in the premises where the dog resides) throughout the year will often
by itself ameliorate this condition in milder cases. Contact allergies
to pollens, dusts, molds, and other environmental allergens may be to
blame. (One indoor allergen responsible for much atopic dermatitis in
dogs, the feces of the ubiquitous house dust mite, is a major allergen
for humans, as well.) Less frequently, food intolerances may play a
role, and the dog must be relegated by the veterinarian to a strict
dietary protocol. For milder cases, some dog owners and vets have seen
improvement using fish oil supplements; the omega-3 fatty acids
contained in fish oils act as a natural anti-inflammatory and help to
relieve the itching. Severe cases of atopic dermatitis can be difficult
to manage, and the advice and help of a veterinarian are needed to
bring the afflicted dog relief. Often treatment to control the itching
(such as antihistamines or even prednisone), identification and removal
of the source of the allergen from the dogs environment and treatment
of the secondary skin infections are all necessary in order to control
the condition in especially severe cases. While no studies have been
done specifically on Staffords, research with dogs in general show this
condition to have, at least in part, a genetic mode of transmission.
Demodectic mange
(demodicosis)
Demodicosis is a
skin condition caused by the tiny mite Demodex canis. Nearly all dogs
carry this tiny skin parasite, but most adult dogs immune systems are
able to keep the mite in check, and no symptoms are observed. (Even
most humans carry this mite in limited numbers in their skin!)
Frequently in puppyhood and adolescence (4 months to 18 months of age
is most typical), puppies of many breeds (including Staffords) may
develop a few quarter-sized bald patches on their face and chest; these
usually resolve in time without treatment. Unfortunately, certain dogs
are not so lucky; the condition becomes generalized and wide-spread
over the entire body. In these cases, veterinarians must be consulted
for treatment, and the problem is often not easy to permanently
resolve. Previously, only rather toxic dips, usually containing the
compound amitraz, would be used to control the mites in dogs with
generalized demodicosis. More recently, the heartworm preventive
ivermectin has been successfully used to treat demodicosis; however, it
is not yet approved by the FDA for this purpose, although it is
licensed for use as a heartworm preventive in the dog. Ivermectin is
highly toxic to many individuals of herding breeds, but most Staffords
appear to tolerate it well. Certain lines of Staffords appear to be
particularly prone to generalized demodicosis. Whether or not a
Stafford with generalized demodicosis should be used in a breeding
program is a controversial subject at the moment, however, the tendency
towards the condition is thought be many to be an inherited one.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
The full name of this disorder is
brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome (BAOS). Brachycephalics are
those breeds which have a comparatively short head. Because of their
anatomy, virtually all dogs of these breeds have some degree of
increased work associated with breathing from the time they are born.
Many have varying degrees of obstruction to their airways, which causes
signs ranging from noisy breathing to collapse.
The most common anatomical features that lead to the respiratory
difficulties typical of these breeds, include an elongated and fleshy
soft palate, and narrowed nostrils. Many affected dogs also have
changes to the larynx (everted laryngeal saccules) and a relatively
small trachea.
How is brachycephalic syndrome inherited?
Selection for exaggerated features has resulted in the respiratory difficulties in these breeds. For example breed standards for the English bulldog specify that the face should be very short, as should the distance between the tip of the nose and where it is set deep between the eyes. It is hardly surprising that this leaves little room for the structures involved in normal breathing.
What breeds are affected by brachycephalic syndrome?
These problems are generally most common and severe in the English bulldog. Other brachycephalic breeds in which this syndrome is found include: American Pit Bull Terrier, Bichon Frisé, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffon, Bulldog, Bull Mastiff, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dogue de Bordeaux, English Mastiff, English Toy Spaniel, French Bulldog, Japanese Chin, Lhasa Apso, Neapolitan Mastiff, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Pug, Rottweiler, Shih Tzu, Shar-Pei and Staffordshire Terrier
What does brachycephalic syndrome mean to your dog & you?
Problems associated with this syndrome range in severity, with most brachycephalic dogs snuffling and snorting to some degree. Some will have no further difficulties, but many will have problems such as increasingly noisy breathing, coughing and gagging, fainting or collapsing episodes, and a decreased tolerance for exercise (ie. they tire easily). Over the long term, this also puts an increased strain on the heart. Some dogs, such as English bulldogs, may have frequent episodes of sleep-disordered breathing. Overheating is especially dangerous in these breeds, because increased panting (the normal mechanism for cooling in dogs) can cause further swelling and narrowing of the already constricted airways, which will increase your dog's anxiety. Excitement, exercise, or warm weather (and especially a combination of these factors) can trigger this vicious cycle. These dogs can also have gastrointestinal problems, because of difficulties coordinating swallowing when they are working so hard at breathing. This can result in vomiting ar gagging because of swallowing so much air, or aspiration pneumonia, because of breathing in saliva or food particles. All dogs of these breeds have an increased risk associated with sedation and anesthesia, for which your veterinarian will take extra precautions.
How is brachycephalic syndrome diagnosed?
These problems are usually evident from a young age. If your dog has respiratory difficulties, your veterinarian may discuss this syndrome with you as part of a regular visit, or you may bring your dog in because of an episode such as collapsing after exercise.Because some changes in anatomy are common to all dogs of these breeds, diagnosis is really a question of the degree of abnormality. The overlong soft palate is best examined under general anesthesia, and so, because of the associated risks, your vet will most likely ask your permission in advance to surgically correct it at the same time if necessary. Neutering can often be performed at the same time.
How is brachycephalic syndrome treated?
Medical treatment (oxygen therapy, corticosteroids) can be used for short term relief of airway inflammation. Surgery is required where severe anatomic faults interfere with breathing. Most commonly this involves removal of some of the excess fleshy soft palate, and widening of air passages at the nostrils. It is important to keep your dog from becoming overweight, as this will worsen his or her respiratory difficulties in the long run.
For the veterinarian:
In mild episodes of obstruction, short-acting steroids, oxygen therapy, and cooling the dog while it calms down may be sufficient. Bear in mind that sedation without intubation will relax upper airway muscles and may increase obstruction, and that hyperthermia may develop in an oygen tent or cage and exacerbate the problem.
These dogs, particularly the English bulldog and other Bully breeds, have an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia following surgery to correct airway problems.
How is brachycephalic syndrome inherited?
Selection for exaggerated features has resulted in the respiratory difficulties in these breeds. For example breed standards for the English bulldog specify that the face should be very short, as should the distance between the tip of the nose and where it is set deep between the eyes. It is hardly surprising that this leaves little room for the structures involved in normal breathing.
What breeds are affected by brachycephalic syndrome?
These problems are generally most common and severe in the English bulldog. Other brachycephalic breeds in which this syndrome is found include: American Pit Bull Terrier, Bichon Frisé, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffon, Bulldog, Bull Mastiff, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dogue de Bordeaux, English Mastiff, English Toy Spaniel, French Bulldog, Japanese Chin, Lhasa Apso, Neapolitan Mastiff, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Pug, Rottweiler, Shih Tzu, Shar-Pei and Staffordshire Terrier
What does brachycephalic syndrome mean to your dog & you?
Problems associated with this syndrome range in severity, with most brachycephalic dogs snuffling and snorting to some degree. Some will have no further difficulties, but many will have problems such as increasingly noisy breathing, coughing and gagging, fainting or collapsing episodes, and a decreased tolerance for exercise (ie. they tire easily). Over the long term, this also puts an increased strain on the heart. Some dogs, such as English bulldogs, may have frequent episodes of sleep-disordered breathing. Overheating is especially dangerous in these breeds, because increased panting (the normal mechanism for cooling in dogs) can cause further swelling and narrowing of the already constricted airways, which will increase your dog's anxiety. Excitement, exercise, or warm weather (and especially a combination of these factors) can trigger this vicious cycle. These dogs can also have gastrointestinal problems, because of difficulties coordinating swallowing when they are working so hard at breathing. This can result in vomiting ar gagging because of swallowing so much air, or aspiration pneumonia, because of breathing in saliva or food particles. All dogs of these breeds have an increased risk associated with sedation and anesthesia, for which your veterinarian will take extra precautions.
How is brachycephalic syndrome diagnosed?
These problems are usually evident from a young age. If your dog has respiratory difficulties, your veterinarian may discuss this syndrome with you as part of a regular visit, or you may bring your dog in because of an episode such as collapsing after exercise.Because some changes in anatomy are common to all dogs of these breeds, diagnosis is really a question of the degree of abnormality. The overlong soft palate is best examined under general anesthesia, and so, because of the associated risks, your vet will most likely ask your permission in advance to surgically correct it at the same time if necessary. Neutering can often be performed at the same time.
How is brachycephalic syndrome treated?
Medical treatment (oxygen therapy, corticosteroids) can be used for short term relief of airway inflammation. Surgery is required where severe anatomic faults interfere with breathing. Most commonly this involves removal of some of the excess fleshy soft palate, and widening of air passages at the nostrils. It is important to keep your dog from becoming overweight, as this will worsen his or her respiratory difficulties in the long run.
For the veterinarian:
In mild episodes of obstruction, short-acting steroids, oxygen therapy, and cooling the dog while it calms down may be sufficient. Bear in mind that sedation without intubation will relax upper airway muscles and may increase obstruction, and that hyperthermia may develop in an oygen tent or cage and exacerbate the problem.
These dogs, particularly the English bulldog and other Bully breeds, have an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia following surgery to correct airway problems.
Congenital Epilepsy
Idiopathic epilepsy is a specific
term referring to a seizure disorder that has no identifiable cause. It
is also referred to as genetic or congenital epilepsy. The terms
epilepsy, seizure, fit or convulsion all mean the same thing, the
physical manifestation of a sudden, excessive electrical discharge of
neurons in the brain that results in a series of involuntary
contractions of the voluntary muscles, abnormal sensations, abnormal
behaviors, or some combination of these events.
In your pet, the physical manifestation can vary between a far-away
look or twitching in one part of the face to your pet falling on his
side, barking, gnashing his teeth, urinating, defecating and paddling
his limbs.
Seizures usually appear suddenly and end spontaneously, and can last
from seconds to minutes. Idiopathic epilepsy can occur in all pedigree
breeds as well as mixed-breed dogs. In some breeds, idiopathic epilepsy
has been proven to be genetic. These breeds include German shepherd
dogs, keeshonds, Belgian tervurens, beagles, Irish setters, Saint
Bernards, poodles, wirehaired fox terriers, cocker spaniels, Labrador
retrievers and golden retrievers.
Because idiopathic epilepsy or a predisposition to epilepsy might be
inherited, neither epileptic animals nor their first-degree relative
should be used for breeding.
Components of a Seizure
There are three components of a seizure:
1. Aura. Certain signs of an impending seizure may be evident, such as restlessness, whining, shaking, salivation, affection, wandering or hiding. These signs may persist from seconds to days in duration and may or may not be apparent to you.
2. Ictus. During ictus, the seizure occurs. The attack may last seconds or minutes. Your dog may fall on his side and may look like he is kicking or paddling. He will salivate, lose control of his bladder, and be unaware of his surroundings.
3. Postictial stage. This stage occurs immediately after the seizure. Your dog will appear confused and disoriented and may wander or pace. He may still exhibit salivation and may be unresponsive to you. Or he may come to you for comfort. The period may be short or it may last for days.
Diagnosis:
By definition, idiopathic epilepsy is a seizure disorder with no known cause, however it is important for your veterinarian to determine your pet's general health and make sure there is no underlying disease that may be causing the seizures. Your veterinarian will take a detailed history and perform a complete physical and neurological examination. Recommended blood tests may include a CBC, serum biochemistry panel, toxin screen, urinalysis and fecal examination.
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is to reduce the severity and frequency of the seizures while avoiding unacceptable side-effects. It is rare to completely eliminate all seizures in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. your veterinarian may choose to treat the disorder with anticonvulsant medications
Drug Therapy:
1. Phenobarbital is usually the drug of first choice for idiopathic epilepsy. It is given two to three times a day by mouth at an initial dose of 1 mg per pound twice a day.
2. The other common anti-convulsant used in dogs is oral diazepam or valium.
3. Bromide is the active ingredient in potassium bromide and sodium bromide and is another anticonvulsant that can be used in addition to phenobarbital or as an initial monotherapy drug. Many dogs that do not initially respond to phenobarbital alone will have a dramatic decrease in seizure frequency and severity with the addition of bromide.
Home Care:
At home, follow your veterinarian's recommendations regarding drug administration and monitoring, and maintain a complete seizure log with information regarding the seizures, any medication change, veterinary visits and illnesses. Haphazard drug administration or abrupt changes in medication may be worse than no treatment at all and may cause status epilepticus, a condition characterized by persistent seizure activity for a period of more than 30 minutes or repeated episodes of seizure activity without recovery in between. Blood tests will be required to monitor your dog's response to therapy and guard against toxic effects from the seizures as well as the anti-convulsants. The diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy is not a death-warrant; epilepsy is a chronic disease that can be managed in the vast majority of cases. There is help for you and your dog. Work with a veterinarian with whom you feel a good rapport. Educate yourself on seizures and their treatment.
Epilepsy is a condition characterized by recurrent seizures. Approximately 2 to 3 percent of dogs are epileptic and the age at which dogs with idiopathic epilepsy have their first seizure is usually between 1 and 5 years of age. Many pets can have one seizure without ever having a second. The seizures can be generalized or partial. Partial or focal seizures indicate activation of a limited number or group of neurons. Generalized seizures indicate a synchronous discharge of a large number of neurons in both sides of the brain. The majority of dogs (50 to 60 percent) with idiopathic epilepsy have generalized seizures. Seizures usually appear suddenly and end spontaneously. Seizures can last from seconds to minutes.
What to Do If Your Pet Has a Seizure:
1. Do not panic. If your pet is having a seizure, he is unconscious and he is not suffering. Your pet may seem like he is not breathing, but he is.
2. Time the seizure. Actually look at a clock or watch and note the time; although it may seem like forever, it may only be 30 seconds.
3. Keep your pet from hurting himself by moving furniture away from the immediate area. Also protect him from water, stairs, and other sharp objects. If possible, place a pillow under his head to prevent head trauma.
4. Note what type of muscular activity or abnormal behavior does your pet exhibits during the seizures? Your veterinarian may want you to keep a record of the date and length of time of each seizure.
5. If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, call your veterinarian or veterinary emergency clinic immediately.
6. Pets do not swallow their tongues. Do not put your hand in your dog's mouth � you may get bit. Do not put spoons or any other object into your pet's mouth.
7. Keep children and other pets away from your seizing animal.
8. Remain by your pet's side; stroke and comfort your animal so when he comes out of the seizure you are there to calm him.
After the Seizure:
1. Observe your pet's post-seizure behavior. Do not allow your pet access to the stairs until he is fully recovered. Offer water if he wishes to drink.
2. Be prepared for vocalization and stumbling after the seizure ends. You need to be strong and offer support and comfort to your pet. He will be confused and may feel as though he did something wrong. Speak softly and with a soothing voice.
3. If your pet has not fully recovered within 30 minutes, contact your veterinarian or local emergency facility.
Signs That Require Emergency Veterinary Attention:
1. Seizures that last longer than 10 minutes
2. Seizures that occur more than 2 times in a 24 hour time period
3. Seizures that begin before your pet has completely recovered from the previous seizure
Components of a Seizure
There are three components of a seizure:
1. Aura. Certain signs of an impending seizure may be evident, such as restlessness, whining, shaking, salivation, affection, wandering or hiding. These signs may persist from seconds to days in duration and may or may not be apparent to you.
2. Ictus. During ictus, the seizure occurs. The attack may last seconds or minutes. Your dog may fall on his side and may look like he is kicking or paddling. He will salivate, lose control of his bladder, and be unaware of his surroundings.
3. Postictial stage. This stage occurs immediately after the seizure. Your dog will appear confused and disoriented and may wander or pace. He may still exhibit salivation and may be unresponsive to you. Or he may come to you for comfort. The period may be short or it may last for days.
Diagnosis:
By definition, idiopathic epilepsy is a seizure disorder with no known cause, however it is important for your veterinarian to determine your pet's general health and make sure there is no underlying disease that may be causing the seizures. Your veterinarian will take a detailed history and perform a complete physical and neurological examination. Recommended blood tests may include a CBC, serum biochemistry panel, toxin screen, urinalysis and fecal examination.
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is to reduce the severity and frequency of the seizures while avoiding unacceptable side-effects. It is rare to completely eliminate all seizures in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. your veterinarian may choose to treat the disorder with anticonvulsant medications
Drug Therapy:
1. Phenobarbital is usually the drug of first choice for idiopathic epilepsy. It is given two to three times a day by mouth at an initial dose of 1 mg per pound twice a day.
2. The other common anti-convulsant used in dogs is oral diazepam or valium.
3. Bromide is the active ingredient in potassium bromide and sodium bromide and is another anticonvulsant that can be used in addition to phenobarbital or as an initial monotherapy drug. Many dogs that do not initially respond to phenobarbital alone will have a dramatic decrease in seizure frequency and severity with the addition of bromide.
Home Care:
At home, follow your veterinarian's recommendations regarding drug administration and monitoring, and maintain a complete seizure log with information regarding the seizures, any medication change, veterinary visits and illnesses. Haphazard drug administration or abrupt changes in medication may be worse than no treatment at all and may cause status epilepticus, a condition characterized by persistent seizure activity for a period of more than 30 minutes or repeated episodes of seizure activity without recovery in between. Blood tests will be required to monitor your dog's response to therapy and guard against toxic effects from the seizures as well as the anti-convulsants. The diagnosis of idiopathic epilepsy is not a death-warrant; epilepsy is a chronic disease that can be managed in the vast majority of cases. There is help for you and your dog. Work with a veterinarian with whom you feel a good rapport. Educate yourself on seizures and their treatment.
Epilepsy is a condition characterized by recurrent seizures. Approximately 2 to 3 percent of dogs are epileptic and the age at which dogs with idiopathic epilepsy have their first seizure is usually between 1 and 5 years of age. Many pets can have one seizure without ever having a second. The seizures can be generalized or partial. Partial or focal seizures indicate activation of a limited number or group of neurons. Generalized seizures indicate a synchronous discharge of a large number of neurons in both sides of the brain. The majority of dogs (50 to 60 percent) with idiopathic epilepsy have generalized seizures. Seizures usually appear suddenly and end spontaneously. Seizures can last from seconds to minutes.
What to Do If Your Pet Has a Seizure:
1. Do not panic. If your pet is having a seizure, he is unconscious and he is not suffering. Your pet may seem like he is not breathing, but he is.
2. Time the seizure. Actually look at a clock or watch and note the time; although it may seem like forever, it may only be 30 seconds.
3. Keep your pet from hurting himself by moving furniture away from the immediate area. Also protect him from water, stairs, and other sharp objects. If possible, place a pillow under his head to prevent head trauma.
4. Note what type of muscular activity or abnormal behavior does your pet exhibits during the seizures? Your veterinarian may want you to keep a record of the date and length of time of each seizure.
5. If the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, call your veterinarian or veterinary emergency clinic immediately.
6. Pets do not swallow their tongues. Do not put your hand in your dog's mouth � you may get bit. Do not put spoons or any other object into your pet's mouth.
7. Keep children and other pets away from your seizing animal.
8. Remain by your pet's side; stroke and comfort your animal so when he comes out of the seizure you are there to calm him.
After the Seizure:
1. Observe your pet's post-seizure behavior. Do not allow your pet access to the stairs until he is fully recovered. Offer water if he wishes to drink.
2. Be prepared for vocalization and stumbling after the seizure ends. You need to be strong and offer support and comfort to your pet. He will be confused and may feel as though he did something wrong. Speak softly and with a soothing voice.
3. If your pet has not fully recovered within 30 minutes, contact your veterinarian or local emergency facility.
Signs That Require Emergency Veterinary Attention:
1. Seizures that last longer than 10 minutes
2. Seizures that occur more than 2 times in a 24 hour time period
3. Seizures that begin before your pet has completely recovered from the previous seizure
Distachiasis
Dogs with this defect have one or more eyelashes that grow toward the cornea, rather than away from it.
The inward-growing hair can abrade the cornea. This is painful and, if not treated, can damage vision.
Surgical correction is available but can be expensive. The mode of inheritance is unknown.
Affected animals can be identified before they reach breeding age and should not be bred.
Unaffected individuals who produce it repeatedly, especially with multiple mates, should be pulled from breeding.
Canine Melanoma
Melanoma is a type of cancer that
occurs commonly in dogs with pigmented (dark) skin. Melanomas can occur
in areas of haired skin, where they usually form small, dark (brown to
black) lumps, but can also appear as large, flat, wrinkled masses.
Melanomas also can occur in the mouth, toes, or behind the eye. In
general, skin melanomas tend to be benign, and those in the mouth,
toes, or eyes tend to be malignant. However, there are many exceptions
to this rule.
The term cancer refers to a large number of diseases whose only common
feature is uncontrolled cell growth and proliferation (multiplication).
This loss of cell growth control results from an accumulation of
mutations (errors introduced into the DNA code) in genes that control
cell division and cell survival.
The most common mechanism that introduces mutations into the DNA of
somatic cells (non-reproductive cells) is the inherent error that
occurs during normal cell division. In mammalian cells, there is an
error rate of about 1 in 1,000,000 to 1 in 10,000,000 bases during each
round of replication. The genome consists of many millions of base
pairs, so each daughter cell is likely to carry at least a few
mutations in its DNA. Most of these mutations are silent; that is, they
do not present any problems to the cell�s ability to function. However,
others can disable tumor suppressor genes or activate oncogenes that
respectively inhibit or promote cell division and survival. Given the
fact that cell division is responsible for most mutations, it is not
surprising that the most common cancers arise from cells that divide
frequently in the performance of their function.
Fortunately, the body has many built-in safeguards that mandate that
abnormal cells be destroyed. For that reason, before cancer can take
hold, a malignant cell must eliminate or evade these safeguards. The
reliability of these systems is evident in the fact that our pets are
not �walking tumors�. Still, cancer is the most frequent cause of death
in dogs.
Melanoma arises from melanocytes, cells that impart pigment or
coloration to the skin. In humans, melanoma arises due to mutations
induced by repeated, intense exposure to ultraviolet light (for
example, frequent tanning or working outdoors). This does not seem to
be a major factor in dogs, as in most breeds the hair coat affords them
protection from sunlight. However, pigment cells divide every time
there is injury to the skin, or if there is constant trauma (for
example, areas where dogs constantly scratch or lick). Nevertheless,
risk factors for canine melanoma are not well established. Mutations
that contribute to cancer can also be inherited. An inherited mutation
in a single gene that is important in cell growth control will increase
the risk of that individual to develop cancer. This can be due to
reducing the overall number of acquired mutations that must accumulate
before a cell becomes cancerous, or it can be due to disabling a
critical safeguard gene that normally prevents cells from becoming
tumors. Specific genes that are responsible for familial melanoma have
been identified in humans and in mice. In dogs, there appears to be a
predisposition among certain breeds or families to develop specific
types of cancer, suggesting that a hereditary component may be
important in the development or progression of the disease.
The laboratory of the AMC Cancer Center has an ongoing program to define the role of genetics in canine cancer. With support from the Canine Health Foundation of the American Kennel Club and specific breed clubs, Doctors are evaluating the role of various target genes in canine melanoma. For additional information on this project, or to inquire if your breed can be included in Doctors study we encourage you to visit the CHF web site at www.akcchf.org, or contact your breed club�s health representative
The laboratory of the AMC Cancer Center has an ongoing program to define the role of genetics in canine cancer. With support from the Canine Health Foundation of the American Kennel Club and specific breed clubs, Doctors are evaluating the role of various target genes in canine melanoma. For additional information on this project, or to inquire if your breed can be included in Doctors study we encourage you to visit the CHF web site at www.akcchf.org, or contact your breed club�s health representative
Staffords are,
overall, much healthier than many other breeds, and their joie de vivre
makes them a real pleasure to own. Knowledge about the health
conditions occasionally found in the breed, combined with your
veterinarians skill and knowledge, will help to ensure your Stafford a
long, happy, and active life in your company.