Helping a dog with a sick heart. What is heart failure in a dog? Main Symptoms and Proper Treatment Heart Disease in Dogs Symptoms

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 the listed symptoms, you should immediately contact your veterinarian.

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 endocardiosis is the most common cardiac condition in dogs. Dogs of small breeds are especially prone to the disease: dachshunds, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire terriers, dwarf poodles and Pekingese. These dogs may show clinical signs as early as 5 years of age. For large dogs - St. Bernards, Newfaulands, Dobermans, boxers, cardiomyopathies of various origins are more characteristic. It should be noted that in Dobermans and boxers, the disease can be asymptomatic, therefore it is recommended to regularly conduct preventive examinations and diagnostic studies of your pet.

The editors of "Black Nose" asked to answer several topical questions Golovko Daria Vladimirovna, veterinary cardiologist at the clinic of Dr. Lapshin:

- First of all, I would like to know how to avoid exacerbation of heart failure in the summer? What preventive measures are there?

In summer, especially on hot days, it is better to walk your 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 the car with closed windows.

- 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 into the shade or a cool room, ensure peace, then immediately deliver the animal to the clinic.

- What are the first manifestations of heart failure that should alert the owner of the dog and how urgent is it to seek help from a veterinarian?

The first sign of heart failure in dogs is increased fatigue, there can also be honest, hoarse breathing, often with an open mouth, even in cool weather, pale gums and tongue, cough, intense thirst, 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 in early age, with age-related changes, the heart - usually after 7-8 years.

- What diagnostic tests must be carried out in veterinary clinic to diagnose 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.

- When treating heart failure, diuretics are often prescribed, which complicates the life of the owner somewhat. In your opinion, how necessary are they in the therapy of cardiac pathology?

In the treatment of congestive heart failure, diuretics are necessary; without their use, the quality of life of the animal is significantly impaired.

- What medications for treating heart failure have worked well in dogs? Are they not a rarity 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" No. 4 2011

Posted by permission of the editor-in-chief of the edition Eremeeva Anna

HEART FAILURE IN DOGS. Treating heart failure in older dogs

The third group of diseases

often occurs in dogs after 8 years of age and proceeds with clearly visible symptoms: cough, wheezing during breathing, increased respiratory rate, increased thirst, impaired coordination, loss of consciousness.

What should alarm the owner

adult dog

- Deaf cough (except for colds).

- Impaired 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 breath.

- Breathing with an open mouth with a noticeable blueing of the tongue (this is the reason for calling an emergency veterinary care).

- The dog changed the set of the forelimbs: it spreads the 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 are finishing their life path heart attack. It's just that heart failure occurs more often in them and at an earlier age than in others. And it does not mean that dogs of other breeds do not know what heart pain 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 heart of a dog fails ahead of time.

Sport, of course, is good for everyone, but it is very difficult to calculate the load for dogs, especially for those who are not fit 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. And in exercise, and in food.

Unlike large dogs, dwarf breeds are more likely to suffer from emotional overload. Everyone who keeps such dogs knows that these creatures are rather nervous, and sometimes even hysterical. Most likely, this is the reason for their frequent heart troubles. They are fearful (strive to bark at everyone), sensual and terribly jealous. When you first pick up your pet, know that it is for life. This is your joy, your happiness, this is your cross.

For these little ones, it is important to be aware of their exclusivity and even uniqueness. Do not try to praise another dog in their presence, much less pet it. This will be a fatal mistake on your part. And although dogs are better at forgiving than we are, you shouldn't tempt fate. Remember that love is the best medicine for these little monsters. And, of course, ask your veterinarians to listen to your dog's heart more often.

Cardiological examination

The main criterion for a correct cardiological examination is a comprehensive study. It is impossible to diagnose - 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 its doctor - cardiologist, can make the correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment.

After taking cardiac drugs, it is necessary to monitor the condition, that is, it is imperative to repeat the ECG to determine the effectiveness of treatment. It often happens that with a mandatory examination before a planned operation, an ECG is taken off the dog and cardiac disorders are detected that did not manifest clinically and the owner did not notice them, but during the subsequent survey they recall, for example, that occasionally the dog coughs at night or breathes often after walking, in no way cannot catch his breath when he comes home.

- Clinical examination.

Clinical examination is the first diagnostic method to help you choose the right direction for further objective diagnostic tests.

During a clinical examination, a veterinarian conducts:

- Examination at a distance - look at the frequency of breathing 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 for leaks, assess the color of the oral mucosa and the time of capillary filling, assess consciousness.

- Examination of the pharynx - palpate 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 synchronization with the heart, to assess the skin and peripheral temperature.

- Examination of the abdomen - to exclude other diseases. gastrointestinal disorders and the like.

- Auscultation - to begin with, you always need to put your palms on chest to feel vibration or displacement of the heart impulse. Auscultation can detect murmurs, gallop rhythm, arrhythmias and abnormalities in breathing sounds.

Chest X-ray.

A chest x-ray is a simple and extremely important diagnostic test for animals with coughing or shortness of breath. Obtaining and interpreting high quality chest radiographs should be a top priority.

When shortness of breath is life threatening, it is corrected prior to x-ray if indicated. Taking X-rays on critically ill animals can be fatal. In such cases, primary treatment is first performed based on history, visual examination of the respiratory phases and clinical signs.

Supportive oxygen therapy is desirable regardless of the cause of the dyspnea. 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.

An animal with shortness of breath should never be laid on its side!

Most of the problems that arise in the interpretation of chest radiographs are associated with errors in animal placement, exposure and development of the film. It is advisable to try to perform radiography in at least 2 projections, although in urgent 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.

Regthgenodiagnostics is based on the detection of the following signs:

1. Expansion of veins. Dilation 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 is exuded into the interstitial space, causing a "feathery" appearance of the pulmonary parenchyma. Usually this phenomenon begins in the area of the roots of the lungs. With the development of edema, fluid enters the alveoli, causing induration of lung tissue, usually in the caudal dorsal lobes (usually more intense on the right than on the left). In extremely severe cases, due to diffuse edema, it is 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 a fast and relatively inexpensive method for determining heart rate and heart rate, and a valuable monitoring tool. Heart rhythm disorders such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular and ventricular premature beats, and tachyarrhythmias are common in heart failure. The ECG also allows you to evaluate information about the enlargement of the heart cavities, about the state of the conducting system and the myocardium. The ECG is of the greatest value for determining the type of arrhythmia detected during physical examination.

Ultrasound (echocardiography).

Echocardiography, although not the main method for diagnosing heart failure. is considered to be a useful non-invasive (non-stress) method for diagnosis of severe structural heart disease.

Echocardiography is a valuable technology for the visualization of the anatomy of the heart (two-dimensional echo), allowing the qualitative and quantitative determination of systolic and diastolic functions (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 enter the right atrium. CVP is usually measured with an 8 to 12-inch catheter inserted through the jugular vein. CVP is a valuable test for measuring preload (and thus function) of the right ventricle. Many pathological processes can cause right heart failure (for example, pericardial effusion and tamponade, tricuspid valve insufficiency, DCM, etc.), and, as a consequence, 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 an unclear nature, CVP is the definitive test to rule out right heart failure as a cause of fluid accumulation. In cases where cardiac function is questionable and massive infusions are indicated (eg, in older dogs with murmurs or renal failure, in 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 research methods are "superfluous" or "main". Only their combination with general clinical trials ( clinical analysis 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 well-versed in our mood. They empathize with all our joys and sorrows and troubles with us. Therefore, if you want to see your pet healthy, try to keep you in a good mood more often.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Heart Failure in a Dog

(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 intensity of blood circulation. All tissues of the body, primarily the brain, suffer from a lack of oxygen and nutrients. This condition is heart failure in dogs.

Etiology of the disease

The causes of heart failure are various 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 heart of the animal. They cause irreversible changes in the myocardium and severe complications.

There are breeds that have a predisposition to heart disease: boxers, spaniels, fox terriers, schnauzers, poodles, shepherds, dobermans, collies, English bulldogs, almost all small breeds, St. Bernards, Samoyeds, mastinos, Newfoundlands. Most of these species have heart failure at different ages.

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. Chronic course the disease is characterized by periodicity, when exacerbations are replaced by remission at regular 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

Congenital heart defects become the cause of the disease in puppyhood. The disease can lead to the death of the dog if treatment is not started 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. Wheezing and shortness of breath are possible;
blue tongue, heavy breathing even during rest;
fainting.

All these signs signal a weakening of the heart muscle. young dog and require a thorough diagnosis.

Signs of illness in mature dogs

In mature animals of middle age, the disease can occur as a complication of previous infections and severe concomitant pathologies. In such cases, they speak of acquired heart failure, which in some cases develops in a latent form. To identify the disease at an early stage, it is necessary to monitor the behavior and well-being of the pet. In the case of genetic predisposition, periodic examinations are recommended.

The following signs indicate a weakening of cardiac activity:

the lethargy and weakness of a normally energetic dog;
shortness of breath even at rest;
fainting;
cough resembling gagging;
fast weight gain;
intense thirst.

These symptoms may appear as early as 2 or 3 stages of the disease. Initial changes are diagnosed only by X-ray and ECG results.

Manifestations of the disease in older dogs

Heart failure in old 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 deaf cough;
staggering when walking;
frequent noisy breathing, open mouth;
anxiety, weakness, loss of appetite;
when walking, the dog spreads its elbows wide. They look turned outward;
big belly.

The veterinarian will conduct a comprehensive examination and prescribe a course of treatment to restore the animal's health. With a timely visit 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 onset of symptoms. The first and main symptom of pathology is chronic cough. An acute condition develops within a few hours. If the dog is not treated promptly, cardiogenic pulmonary edema may develop. Bloody fluid begins to ooze from the dog's mouth and nose.

Treatment

You can start treatment for heart failure only after the animal has been examined by a veterinarian. Even the most expensive medications 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 exercise. Walking is shortened to 20-30 minutes by constantly monitoring the heart rate (pulse). When the diagnosis is confirmed, the animal's diet is revised, limiting the intake of salt and fluids.

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;
chime. 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 and caffeine are injected subcutaneously; into the muscle cordiamine, sulfocamphocaine.

Prevention of heart failure

Dogs of all breeds at risk should be checked regularly by a cardiologist. This is especially true for dwarf dogs. They are more sensitive emotionally and are prone to frequent stress. Also, observation will not harm animals over 6-8 years old and anyone who has any problems with the cardiovascular system.

A loving and caring owner knows well the character of his pet, his habits and norms of behavior. Any deviations in the state of health will be immediately visible and understandable. You should not try to diagnose and treat the dog yourself. Only a qualified veterinarian can help an animal live a long and fulfilling life.

Dogs, just like humans, are prone to cardiovascular diseases, which can occur both in young individuals and in a very respectable age. Cardiovascular diseases can be congenital and acquired. The dog should be regularly examined by a cardiologist-veterinarian in order to identify this condition in time and start treatment on time. Let's analyze together what are.

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 confidently decide that this is precisely a heart problem.

The mucous membranes and skin become cyanotic due to lack of oxygen and circulatory disorders;
The dog becomes very passive, instead of active games, it prefers to lie on the couch;
Heart murmurs are clearly audible when listening;
Various edema, dropsy of unknown etiology;
Shortness of breath, tachycardia at the slightest exertion.

Noticing at least one of these symptoms in a dog, you should immediately postpone all cases and seek qualified help at the YA-VET veterinary center.

Heart disease in dogs: what they are. List

Congestive heart disease - heart disease in dogs

With such a pathology as congestive heart disease, the heart muscle cannot cope with pumping blood through the circulatory system.

a sagging, distended abdomen, which becomes such as a result of the development of ascites;
the animal is rapidly losing weight in a short period of time;
cyanosis of the mucous membranes;
if everything is bad, then fainting is possible due to lack of oxygen.

If you notice at least one of these symptoms, plan to visit your veterinarian as soon as possible, who will prescribe all the necessary tests.

Myocarditis, heart disease in dogs

Any infectious disease can provoke a disease such as myocarditis.

obvious violation of the rhythm;
a hearty dry cough that does not let go of the animal for a minute;
the dog gets tired quickly;
difficulty breathing normally;
the animal 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.

first stage

tachycardia;
extrasystole;
pain in the region of the heart;
the heart beat becomes stronger.

On the second stage the impulse of the heart muscles is significantly weakened, which can be seen on the ECG, which can be done in the veterinary center "Ya-VET" and learn all about the state of the pet's heart.

Myocardosis, heart disease in dogs

The etiology of this disease is not at all inflammatory. Doctors suggest treating this condition based on the situation, choosing the drug based on the symptoms. The reasons for this condition are still not clearly understood and thousands of scientists continue to investigate them.

symptoms of myocardosis in a dog

shortness of breath, blue discoloration of the mucous membranes and skin;
venous pressure rises significantly, while arterial pressure drops significantly;
the pulse becomes not pronounced, weak;
if the process is strongly launched, then the push is weak and does not feel as it should be.

Diagnostics is carried out in the same way, with the help of ECG, ultrasound and similar studies, which can be carried out in our veterinary center "Ya-VET".

Endocarditis, heart disease in dogs

Myocardial infarction, - heart disease in dogs

Myocardial infarction the disease occurs not only in humans. Dogs are also susceptible to it. This heart disease is characterized by the fact that the flow of blood to a certain area of the heart stops and a real emergency occurs, which requires the urgent intervention of specialists from the veterinary center "Ya-VET". If the area of damage to soft tissues is not large, then the dog has significant chances of salvation, which must be taken advantage of. Otherwise, a lethal outcome is possible and doctors can only state the death of the animal.

Diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases, heart disease in dogs

The doctor can prescribe a variety of diagnostic methods depending on the result of the face-to-face 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;
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 susceptible to heart disease

Heart disease can hit absolutely any dog, from the Tibetan mastiff to the Maltese lapdog. Heart disease does not depend on age. They are capable of striking both old and young creatures. Here, one should rely only on the 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 veterinary center "Ya-VET" because it is here that experienced cardiologists work, who are ready at any time of the day to provide qualified assistance related to heart problems.

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 overlooked! A minute of delay can cost the animal's life.

How to Choose a Veterinary Center to Treat Your Pet - Dog Heart Disease

Treatment of cardiovascular diseases should be entrusted to the veterinary center that has unconditional trust, as well as its 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 may 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 disease, heart disease in dogs

Nutrition for Dog Heart Disease should not be high in calories, easily digestible, an abundance of protein is only welcome. Protein will help restore normal metabolism and make your dog more resilient and healthy. The first time after surgical intervention(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.

kefir;
dairy products;
boiled chicken;
boiled vegetables;
lean meat (a little);
maybe the dog will like soaked dried apricots. It is a source of potassium for both humans and animals. Offer 1-2 items a week.

All these products should be given carefully and only in those proportions and quantities that are prescribed by a veterinarian, or 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 your pet?

A trip to a veterinary center for dog heart disease, even with the kindest atmosphere, is a tremendous stress for a four-legged friend. That is why our doctors "YA-VET" use with might and main modern technologies in the veterinary world in order to minimize the stress of treatment 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:

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 of his business than an ordinary veterinarian.

It is not by chance that the heart is called a "fiery motor": the life of all mammals depends on its state. Our dogs are no exception. Numerous heart diseases in dogs can put a fat point in your pet's history and bring a lot of grief to its owners. In this article, we will discuss the main types of these pathologies, their causes and treatment methods.

First, you need to remember that all ailments in this group are divided into two broad categories: acquired and congenital. The first is most often found in older dogs, while the second variety is more typical for some breeds, and Clinical signs diseases can manifest themselves from a very early, puppy age. So, acquired heart disease.

This is the name of a pathology in which the heart cannot cope with pumping blood, as a result of which regional congestion occurs. Very often observed in older dogs, it can be a consequence of many infectious diseases. The main signs of the disease are as follows:

Bloated and saggy belly that becomes so because of.

Heavy, hoarse breathing. Sometimes you can hear gurgling without even using the phonendoscope. This indicates the presence of an effusion in the chest cavity.

In severe cases, fainting is possible due to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain tissues.

Visible mucous membranes take on a pale, bluish tint.

There is a sharp decrease in the dog's fatness over a relatively short period.

How to treat heart disease in dogs if their manifestations lead to the development of congestive heart? First, for the normal course of therapy, you need to find out what you are dealing with in this case. For this can be used: ECG, chest ultrasound, blood and urine tests. The treatment itself depends on many factors, but, most often, it is quite typical:

Drugs are prescribed to maintain the heart rate.

Diuretics that prevent the accumulation of effusion in the chest and / or abdominal cavity.

If it is a congenital malformation, surgery may be used. Of course, in our conditions - from the category of fantasy.

A diet containing a minimum amount of salt is used.

Frequent, but short walks, with which you can maintain the general tone of the animal's body without overloading it.

Dogs with congestive heart failure respond well to multivitamin supplements containing vitamins B, A, and E. This is especially true when considering heart disease in small breed dogs. They just have a frantic metabolism, so vitamins will never interfere with the crumbs.

Myocarditis

The heart is a muscle. Therefore, almost all the troubles that can happen with skeletal striated muscles can lead to problems in his case. For example, infectious diseases and helminthiases often initiate inflammation of the heart muscle, better known as myositis. More precisely,. Myositis is exactly the same pathology, but in the case of ordinary skeletal muscle tissue.

Read also: Peritonitis in dogs - causes and signs of the disease

The reasons for it (given the above) are quite diverse: the action of viruses or pathogenic fungi, toxins and drugs in the case of their excessive use, sometimes a traumatic origin of myocarditis (with rib fractures) is possible. The clinical picture suggests the following symptoms:

Pronounced arrhythmia.

Cough, dry and persistent.

Fast fatiguability.

Labored breathing.

Weakness, the animal tries to move less, often lies in its place, apathetic to everything that happens.

Suddenly arising febrile conditions, accompanied by a significant increase in the general body temperature.

Other symptoms associated with primary infection, poisoning, and other negative factors.

But it must be remembered that the entire course of the disease can be divided into two distinct stages: the first and the second. In the table below, we will explain in detail which clinical picture for which variety is it characteristic.

Diet is a must. The animal needs to be fed more often, but in smaller portions. You should walk regularly, but under no circumstances should you load the dog. It is necessary in every possible way to prevent the development and appearance of constipation. To do this, completely eliminate all dry and roughage from the diet, preference is given to broths and boiled, mashed vegetables. As in the past, vitamin supplements can be extremely beneficial.

Myocardosis

Also a disease of the cardiac striated musculature. But in this case its etiology is more complicated, since the nature of the disease is not inflammatory. In short, myocardosis is a complex of degenerative and dystrophic changes in the thickness of the heart tissue, due to which the latter loses its natural functionality.

Read also: Worms in a pregnant dog: impact on offspring, what remedies can be used

The exact causes of this ailment are still being investigated. It is assumed that disorders of carbohydrate and protein metabolism play an important role in its development. Most likely, infectious and invasive diseases still serve as a trigger for this pathology. In any case, statistics show that approximately 34% of dogs after myocarditis showed signs of myocardosis. But this is not less than a third of cases!

The clinical picture in this disease is in many ways similar to that described above. The difficulty here is that the symptoms are more blurred here, since the pathology develops very slowly. When the dog begins to show something really serious, then it is too late to save it. The fact is that the process of degradation of muscle tissue in this case is irreversible, and therefore the animal is doomed. Only supportive therapy can help prolong his life, while maintaining its quality at an acceptable level.

However, rather sad lyrics. How exactly can myocardosis manifest itself? The list of signs is quite extensive:

Shortness of breath, cyanosis of the mucous membranes and skin.

The skin can become flabby, lose firmness and elasticity.

The venous pressure rises, while the arterial pressure drops significantly.

The pulse significantly "sags", becomes poorly expressed.

When the process is neglected, the heart impulse is spilled, weak. The intensity of contraction of the heart muscle is significantly reduced, and serious arrhythmia can be observed.

Endocarditis

It happens acute and chronic, according to the characteristics of pathology - ulcerative or warty. The second type is especially dangerous, since detached warts can block blood flow even in large vessels, causing heart attacks, strokes, and also causing sudden death. Many heart diseases in older dogs are endocarditis. Because of them, pets very often die ...

As you know, the heart is a kind of "fiery motor" that constantly works and provides the entire body with nutrients and oxygen. And even the person who is far from veterinary medicine or medicine knows perfectly well how serious the consequences of his pathology are. At best - a decrease in the quality of life of the animal, at worst - death. So any heart disease in dogs is a reason for an immediate visit to a veterinarian.

Note that cardiac pathologies in dogs proceed slightly differently than if comparing 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 hardly suffer from coronary artery disease. The only exception is over-fed pets, whose owners too often delight their dogs with tasty, fatty, but monstrously harmful food (but even in these cases, the coronary arteries often remain normal, to the envy of people with CVS 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 - timely delivery of oxygen to all internal organs and tissues and nutrients. If something is wrong with the “fiery motor”, the whole organism suffers.

Despite the danger, many dogs can live their entire lives with minor heart defects, and they will not develop 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 the course of several years, and sometimes it is as if something “breaks down” in the dog, and your pet, who has recently been running merrily, begins to breathe heavily and hoarsely, all visible mucous membranes and even skin.

The 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). This is often the result infectious diseases viral etiology, as well as septic processes. Heart disease in dogs is most common in middle-aged and older animals. The following types of pathologies are most common:

Chronic valve defect. Alas, but this age 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 an inflammation of the muscular layer of the organ, in the second, the process of its dystrophy and degeneration.
Problems with the conduction system of the heart(beam blockade), which results in different types arrhythmias.
Pericarditis. This is the name of the inflammation of the "bag", that is, a kind of outer "wrapper" of the heart, formed by serous tissue. The problem is that a large volume of exudate begins to accumulate inside the pericardium itself with this pathology. This liquid acts as a "press", literally pinching the organ. Accordingly, the heart can no longer contract normally, as a result of which its failure develops. His characteristic signs- shortness of breath, cough and shortness of breath.

Once again, we note that for dogs, congenital heart defects (especially serious ones) are, rather, the exception to the rule. Acquired defects are much more typical (and only for dogs of large and giant breeds). It 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 (in comparison with wolves).

Simply put, a small heart has to pump at least three times more blood than it is supposed to "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 reason for panic. In puppies, they also happen, since in many pups of botalls, the duct, it happens, does not overgrow immediately.

Much more dangerous are congenital valvular defects (which, as we have already indicated, are rare even in large breed dogs). All of the above pathologies significantly impair the quality of life of the animal and shorten its life span. However, mild cases, such as valve stenosis, often allow the dog to live an almost fulfilling life.

Congestive heart failure

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a term used to describe many conditions that cause an organ to lose its ability to pump blood normally. It can be left- and right-sided. There are many reasons for the development of this disease.

The most common are mitral valve insufficiency (MVI), located between the left atrium and the left ventricle, and cardiomyopathies of various etiologies (DCM).

Clinical signs strongly depend on which side of the heart failure developed. In all these cases, the dog becomes very tired, constantly coughs, and 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 butterfly 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 (in comparison with 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.

As a rule, with right-sided insufficiency, ascites, also known as "dropsy of the abdomen", develops.

In addition, edematous phenomena of the chest and extremities are characteristic of this variety. This is well noticeable in dogs of small breeds: such dogs "flaunt" a pear-shaped, monstrously swollen belly. In other cases, their breasts literally "swell", the skin and subcutaneous tissue in the area of the sternum 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, "flowing" back into the lungs. This pathology manifests itself even more severely. The liquid part of the blood begins to seep into the lumen of the pulmonary alveoli, causing pulmonary edema. This causes coughing and shortness of breath. In severe cases, the dog suffocates, a large amount of white, flocculent 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 a slight insufficiency of the bicuspid valve, the animal can live for years without showing any signs of illness, then with problems with a small circle of blood circulation, it may well die in just a couple of months.

Note that the symptomatology of all other heart diseases is almost identical to that of congestive heart failure, which is explained by common problems: the impossibility of "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.
The same cough, seriously aggravated at night.
Constant and severe shortness of breath.
Weight loss. Many people think that with heart disease, exhaustion develops gradually, but this is not entirely true. In severe cases, the dog can become very emaciated in just a couple of weeks.
Fatigue, the dog gets very tired, even just going up the stairs.
Cases of fainting or "twilight" consciousness.
The dog cannot sit, immediately starting to choke. This should also include cases of severe bloating of the abdomen (due to ascites, that is, dropsy of the abdominal cavity).

Diagnostics of cardiovascular diseases

It is rare for a veterinarian to diagnose cardiovascular disease simply by reviewing the medical history and physical examination. 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 fluoroscopy, electrocardiography, and echocardiography are indicated. Finally, one should not underestimate the importance of a simple examination: an experienced veterinarian may well determine many heart diseases, focusing only on their external manifestations (but nevertheless, 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 pathologies of the pericardium. In complex and doubtful cases, more complex specialized techniques are used, which include cardiac catheterization or genetic studies (extremely expensive, but very effective).

Finally, to identify cases of infection with heartworms (and this pathology can also be referred to as pathologies of the heart), they resort to serology. In the blood of a dog with dirofilariasis, specific antibodies appear (but not always).

X-ray

A widely used diagnostic technique in medicine and veterinary medicine that allows you to visually assess the state of internal organs (and not just bones, as it is commonly thought). So, with contrast fluoroscopy, in which special substances are injected into the blood, the dimensions of the heart and even its individual chambers are perfectly visible on X-rays. In addition, x-rays are equally useful in 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 darkening in the lungs does not at all guarantee that the swelling is a consequence of the pathology of the heart. In addition, even contrast radiography provides much less information about the state of soft tissues than if compared with echocardiography.

Electrocardiography

Electrocardiography is a method that records the impulses that pass 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 because only it can indicate the absence of impulses or the existence of any obstacles to their passage. It is simply unrealistic to identify such violations in other ways. Finally, electrocardiography helps to identify dilatation of the heart, even without its visual examination, only by the results of changes in the contractions on the ECG graph. Taking into account research recent years, a lot of new techniques for reading electrocardiography graphs have appeared, which give 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 volumes of the heart chambers. Another advantage of echocardiography is the accurate detection of the thickness of the atria and ventricles, as well as the condition of the valves of the organ. Currently, this technique has been modified so that the veterinarian can very accurately calculate the volume of blood flow.

There are three main types of echocardiography:

2D variation (also known as B-mode).
M-mode. Used even before the appearance of the B-variety.
Doppler echocardiography.

The most common two-dimensional method, when the construction of a model of the heart is done 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 examination of the organ and allows it to be carried out even in a poorly equipped clinic. This method of assessment, as a rule, is used to measure the size of the cavities of the heart, the thickness of their walls, allows you to assess the size of the aorta and pulmonary artery, as well as assess the state of the heart valves. It is for this reason that the M-method of heart echocardiography is still practiced in many veterinary clinics, despite the existence of more modern techniques.

Doppler echocardiography is most commonly used today. It uses the principle of changing the frequency of ultrasound after the reflection of the latter from the blood cells. This makes it possible to estimate blood volume with very high accuracy, determine the blood flow velocity and other parameters. It is worth noting, however, that all modern devices for echocardiography make it possible to use all three techniques with equal success.

Cardiac catheterization

Cardiac catheterization involves inserting specialized catheters (thin, flexible tubes) into the heart, aorta, or pulmonary artery. This diagnostic method is often used when other methods are not enough to identify certain cardiac pathologies or it is necessary to identify the severity of the lesion with high accuracy.

The technique can also be used for pre-surgical assessment, verification of the effectiveness of treatment, as well as for a comprehensive veterinary examination. However, in the last two cases, it is much more expedient to limit ourselves to echocardiography. It is much simpler and cheaper.

Treating heart disease in dogs

Contrary to popular belief, the treatment of cardiac pathologies does not in all cases imply the need for a surgical operation. Sometimes it is possible to do without it. So, in the presence of congenital valve 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), an operation cannot be dispensed with. The problem is that puppies with these conditions cannot be operated on until they are at least three to four months old. With serious heart problems, they simply do not live up to this age ...

As a supportive drug treatment, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, ACE inhibitors are prescribed. These funds significantly weaken the load on the heart, help restore the striated musculature of the organ and help to neutralize the effects of even severe stress. Of course, ACE inhibitors will not be able to cure the underlying disease, but they will make it possible to preserve the high quality of life of 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 prevent fluid buildup 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 "surges" in blood pressure, very often and painfully "hit" the kidneys. Frequent administration of diuretics can finally finish off the excretory system.

For breathing problems, specialists often prescribe Euphyllin. For the same purposes, the 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 for dogs in real life are carried out extremely rarely (since it is very expensive), then you will have to treat a sick pet all your life.

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 correct the therapeutic course in time.

Veterinarians say heart disease is common in dogs. They have a negative effect on the functioning of the myocardium. According to medical statistics, 95% of canine cardiovascular diseases are acquired. They are mainly provoked by natural age changes... The cause of disease is trauma, infection. Often, the manifestations of diseases are observed in dogs in middle and old age.

Diseases of the cardiovascular system are most often manifested in dog breeds such as St. Bernards and Newfoundlands. Emotional overloads are characteristic of miniature poodles and pinschers (you need the right diet). They suffer from heart disease more than other breeds. It is better to make an appointment with the veterinarian immediately at the first symptoms.

The causes of the appearance of pathology

Factors in the development of heart disease in dogs are myocarditis, congenital heart valve abnormalities, and myocardial infarction. An increased danger is posed by stagnant processes in the heart muscle of a pet. Also, heart muscle disease can provoke thyroid disease. The cause is drugs (steroids).

Age-related degenerative-dystrophic changes can cause heart disease. Narrow experts rank among them metabolic disorders that provoke diabetes mellitus and overweight. Also, the disease can be caused by pathologies of the kidneys and adrenal glands. Problems with the cardiovascular system appear due to increased physical exertion.

Symptoms

When you have symptoms of heart disease in dogs, you need to seek medical attention promptly. Among the negative manifestations, a dry cough is distinguished due to short physical activity. It is especially aggravated at night. Also, the pet suffers from regular shortness of breath.

You need to pay attention to body weight. In severe cases, the pet can lose weight in just a few weeks. In this case, the dog gets tired quickly, even going up the stairs. Fainting may occur. It is necessary to take the dog to the veterinarian if it is unable to sit, suffocates. Alarming symptoms are bloating, due to dropsy of the abdominal cavity.

Major Heart Diseases in Dogs

Heart failure

The pathology of the disease is marked by the fact that it is difficult to pump blood by the heart. This leads to various congestions. The disease is diagnosed primarily in older dogs as a result of previous infections.

Symptoms may present with a bloated, saggy abdomen due to heavy breathing (chest effusion). Fainting, weight loss for a short time... Treatment of heart disease in a dog is required, in which drugs that normalize cardiac activity, diuretics are shown.

Myocarditis

Caused by infectious diseases, the presence of helminthiasis. Perhaps the development of myocarditis with rib injuries. Manifested by the inflammatory process of the heart muscle. The animal has arrhythmia, problems with the respiratory system. Constant fatigue leads to the fact that the dog lies almost all the time, apathetic to its surroundings. The temperature may rise, fever worries.

The disease is caused by dystrophic changes in the heart tissue, which leads to disruption of its natural functioning. The reasons are being investigated by medicine. It is believed that disorders of carbohydrate and protein metabolism can lead to myocardosis. It was found that in 34% of cases myocarditis leads to the development of myocardosis.

Pathology develops slowly, unfortunately, it is irreversible. Supportive therapy is recommended. You need quality food, a calm environment.

Endocarditis

Heart murmurs are heard. Decompensated insufficiency, degenerative symptoms can lead to pulmonary edema. The choroid may be damaged. During treatment, drugs are prescribed, powerful antibiotics, in order to eliminate the underlying disease.

Myocardial infarction

This pathology has not spared dogs either. It is observed when the blood flow to some part of the heart muscle is stopped. This state of affairs can lead to cell death. The pet can be saved when the affected area is small. Clinical manifestations observed in the acute period.

A sick dog experiences pain for any reaction in the area of the left elbow bend. The pre-infarction state is marked by the pet's panic attacks. He is excited and looking for a quiet place in the corners. Listening allows you to identify an increase in the border of the heart. Often, therapy is prescribed based on symptoms. Your veterinarian recommends a low-carb diet. She has proven herself well for prevention purposes.

Pericarditis

This pathology develops as a result of inflammation of the outer shell of the heart. Among the primary causes of primary pericarditis, veterinarians identify colds, drafts and metabolic disorders. Secondary is caused by complications of infectious diseases (leukemia). Also non-infectious pneumonia, pleurisy and bronchitis.

Pathology can be detected based on the negative symptoms that are observed in dogs. The state of the dog is depressed, refusal to eat. In this case, the dogs try not to make sudden movements. They stand with their forelimbs spread apart. Also, the dog is constantly suffering from shortness of breath. The disease is manifested by an enlarged liver and low blood pressure. The venous, on the contrary, becomes elevated.

Narrow experts do not recommend self-medication, you should contact the clinic. The first measures should be to ensure the rest of the sick dog. The diet should be fortified, with a rich spectrum of trace elements. Diuretics and cardiac medications can support the normal functioning of the heart. The effect is observed when taking a glucose solution. It must be administered parenterally several times a day. Additionally, antimicrobial and vitamin therapy can be prescribed with them. The course of treatment is determined by the veterinarian, according to individual symptoms.

Diagnostics

In practice, the veterinarian does not make a diagnosis just by looking at the dog's medical history. For this purpose, a variety of diagnostic methods are used. Auscultation of the heart is simple and effective. It is carried out with a stethoscope.

Narrow specialists can identify arrhythmias of various etiologies based on the results of electrocardiography. The method helps to establish neoplasms, pericardial pathology. Serology is used to detect helminth infestation.

In order to identify the state of internal organs, X-rays are widely used. To detect an enlarged heart in a dog, contrast fluoroscopy, which involves the introduction of a special substance into the bloodstream, allows. Recording of impulses that pass through the heart at the time of its contractions can be performed by electrocardiography. Cardiac arrhythmias (tachycardia and bradycardia), heart rhythm disturbances (bundle blockade) are established.

The volumes of the heart chambers are determined by echocardiography. It makes it possible to accurately set the thickness of the atria. At this point, this technique has been significantly improved. The veterinarian, applying it, calculates the amount of blood flow.

Heart disease treatment

For pet owners, veterinarians recommend giving them garlic. With its help, you can eliminate the appearance of blood clots in the arteries. For dogs weighing more than 50 kg, you can give two teaspoons of minced garlic per day. For small dogs, a quarter or a half teaspoon will be enough.

When the veterinary clinic was diagnosed diseased heart in a dog, it is necessary to use herbal infusions. Valerian root, lemon balm and chamomile can significantly reduce soreness and heart rhythm irregularities. Aronia, hawthorn and motherwort have vasodilating properties. Juniper, blueberry, fennel and dill have diuretic properties. Flax, calendula, dandelion are antisclerotic agents.

Supportive drug treatment is the appointment of inhibitors, angiotensin converting enzymes. These drugs can significantly reduce the stress on the heart. They have the ability to neutralize the effects of severe stress. The veterinarian may prescribe nitroglycerin, furosemide.

About the author: Anna Mikhailovna Tarasova

My specialization is surgery and veterinary medicine for dogs and exotic pets, as well as therapy and radiology. Read more about me in the "About us" section.