Jack Russell Terriers They are known to be energetic and cheerful dogs that provide endless fun for their owners. Most breeders do not encourage inbreeding as a way to reduce challenging mutations. Jack Russells are typically a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are also susceptible to a number of health problems.
The following are some of the signs to watch out for:
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 in the chest cavity. Your dog will experience shortness of breath or rapid breathing. These are some of the red flags you will notice. Also, if your dog shows reduced interest in exercise activities, have him checked for cardiomyopathy.
Lens luxation
Another common health condition that can affect Jack Russell Terriers is Lens Luxation. It is an inherited disease that can affect the eyes 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 luxation develops mainly in old age. Always be on the lookout for any changes in your dog’s eyes. Visit a vet right away if you notice a color change to discuss the chances of a lens disorder.
Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a brain disease that can pose great health risks to a Jack Russell Terrier. It involves the accumulation of fluid in the brain. This fluid exerts pressure on brain tissues causing their degeneration. Dogs suffering from hydrocephalus have difficulty balancing and appear disoriented. They can collide with objects and crash 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 to dogs with the condition is euthanasia.
It is advisable to look for other possible diagnoses, since the symptoms exhibited can also be characteristic of other treatable neurological disorders.
Von Willebrands disease
Von Willebrands disease is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by abnormal platelet function. You can notice it if your dog cuts himself and the bleeding is excessive even though the cut is not too deep. Bleeding gums, blood in the urine, and constant nosebleeds are other symptoms to look out for as well.
Von Willebrands disease has no cure. The best you can do is discourage and protect your Jack Russell Terriers from any tough fights with other creatures. Also ask your vet for suggestions on ways to reduce the excessive bleeding that can occur during surgery; in case your dog is faced with the need to undergo the procedure.
Patent ductus arteriosus
During delivery, the fetal vessels 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 should be identified in its early stages. A timely diagnosis is necessary for successful surgery to take place. 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. Make sure to inform the vet of any changes as soon as you spot them. Treating your Jack Russell Terrier for any health disorder while it is still in the early stages presents a greater chance that it will overcome any future complications. Be aware that some diseases become difficult to treat once the dog ages. Never miss an appointment with the vet, especially when the dog is still a puppy.