Tips For Ensuring Good Collie Health
All dog breeds have some kind of genetic issue breeders and owners need to face at some point. Understanding the genetic problems your dog may have will help you to supply the proper treatment options at the appropriate time. If you are interested in a collie as your next pet, make sure you are aware of the specifics surrounding collie health.
Many collies have difficulty with their eyes when they grow older. In fact, a few genetic issues might cause blindness when not cared for early on. One condition you should talk about with your vet about your new dog is progressive retinal atrophy, commonly known as PRA. PRA causes night blindness in its early stages and restricts day time vision right up until sight is completely gone. This condition begins early in the life of this particular breed due to abnormal cell development within the retina. Go over the vision issues of collie health with your veterinarian for additional information.
Gray Collie Syndrome, GCS, is actually a genetic slate for those puppies born with it. With this disorder, puppies are born a light gray color. Remember that all collies have black noses. The light gray pup with a tan or lighter colored nose is always a positive for this particular affliction. In fact, the nose color will be a diagnostic sign veterinarians look for when this condition is a concern. Merle collies have black noses as well.
The pup with GCS often does not live for more than a few weeks. On the other hand, there have been documented instances of these puppies living up to a couple of years with treatment. Signs involve fever, diarrhea, and joint discomfort. The puppy with GCS is smaller and much weaker than other litter mates. You can pick out the affected puppy very easily through color and lethargic withdrawal from litter mates.
Despite the fact that many people think about physical deformities and the like whenever breed genetics is discussed, you’ll want to understand that collies have an issue with using a few drugs as well. Due to a gene called P-glycoprotein, collies are not able to withstand the popular worming medication Ivermectin or anti-diarrhea medications containing loperamide. That is crucial information for anyone to know who is sitting with your pet or looking after it while you are away for an extended time period.
Knowing the specifics of collie health is particularly crucial when you plan to breed them or if you just want one as your companion and very best friend. Collies are loyal and intelligent dogs that have come down throughout the generations with a wonderful personality and impressive temperament. Making the effort to find out all you can about them is well worth it. Before you come to the decision to select a puppy, make sure you choose an appropriate vet that has expertise and experience with this breed. Remember to keep on top of all vaccinations and scheduled wellness appointments for the purpose of catching disease in the early stages.
Do you have a Collie? Be sure to visit Collie Health Guide for tips on Collie health and Collie problems.
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