jack russell terrier They are known for being energetic and cheerful dogs that bring endless fun to their owners. Most breeders do not encourage inbreeding as a way to reduce challenging mutations. Jack Russells are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are also susceptible to a number of health conditions.
The following are some of the signs you should be aware of:
cardiomyopathy
This is a condition that weakens the heart muscle. It is characterized by a thickened heart and dilated chambers. Stiffening of the heart muscles also occurs. Cardiomyopathy has no early symptoms, so it can only be detected when it is more advanced.
Complications include pulmonary edema and pleural effusion. Pulmonary edema occurs when water accumulates in the lungs or chest cavity. Your dog will experience labored or rapid breathing. These are some of the warning signs that he will notice. Also, if your dog shows reduced interest in exercise activities, have him checked for cardiomyopathy.
lens dislocation
Another common health condition that can affect a jack russell terrier is lens luxation. It is an inherited disease that can affect either eye or just one. It is characterized by dislocation of the lens.
In some cases, dog owners hardly ever notice the condition in its early stages. At this point, the lens is only partially dislocated. But once complete dislocation occurs, the dog experiences pain and the eyes become dull or have a reddish hue.
Immediate medical attention can eliminate the possibility of blindness. Lens dislocation develops mainly in old age. Always be on the lookout for any changes in your dog’s eyes. See a vet right away if you notice a change in color to discuss the chances of a lens disorder.
hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a brain disease that can pose major health risks to a Jack Russell Terrier. It is the accumulation of fluid in the brain. This fluid puts pressure on the brain tissues causing degeneration. Dogs suffering from hydrocephalus have difficulty maintaining their balance and appear disoriented. They can walk into objects and bump into walls due to confusion.
At the moment there is no known cure for hydrocephalus. However, research to find a cure is still ongoing. The kindest option available for dogs suffering from this condition is euthanasia.
It is advisable to investigate other possible diagnoses since the symptoms presented may also be characteristic of other treatable neurological disorders.
von Willebrand disease
Von Willebrands disease is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by abnormal platelet function. You may notice this if your dog gets a cut and the bleeding is excessive even though the cut is not too deep. Bleeding gums, blood in the urine, and constant nosebleeds are also other symptoms to watch out for.
Von Willebrands disease has no cure. The most he can do is discourage and protect his Jack Russell Terriers from any hard fighting with other creatures. Also ask your vet to suggest ways to reduce excessive bleeding that can occur during surgery; if your dog is faced with the need to undergo the procedure.
Patent ductus arteriosus
During birth, the fetal vessels located between the pulmonary artery and the aorta may not close. This normally results in a number of cardiovascular complications. Sudden death is the first sign of the disorder in rare cases.
The disease can be easily detected during a routine checkup. Signs to look for include an unusual heart sound and your dog appearing weaker than he is supposed to be.
Patent ductus arteriosus must be identified early. A timely diagnosis is necessary for the surgery to be carried out successfully. This might not be the case in older dogs.
Always take your Jack Russell to the vet while he is still a puppy for his normal routine checkups. Be sure to report any changes to your vet as soon as you notice them. Treating your Jack Russell Terrier for any health disorders while he is still in the early stages presents a greater chance that he will outgrow any future complications. Keep in mind that some diseases become difficult to treat once the dog gets older. Never miss a vet appointment, especially when the dog is still a puppy.