Congenital Hypothyroidism with Goiter (CHG)
- This condition prevents the dog’s body from properly producing thyroid hormones which a vital for development and growing. From 2 weeks a delay in growth can be noticed where unaffected puppies would have a growth spurt. Affected puppies may also suffer from fits or die at a very young age. Carefully nursed puppies may have a delayed start with their eyes and ears opening later, whilst hearing and brain development is affected. The thyroid can become enlarged and will present as swelling on the throat, this is known as goiter. Puppies that survive the early parts of their lives may suffer from irreversible dwarfism.
- Affected Breeds: Spanish water dog
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)
- ADRS is defined by sudden respiratory failure from fluid accumulation and severe inflammation of the lungs. It’s a life-threatening condition with a mortality rate of nearly 100%. This occurs following an episode that causes the dog to go into shock, such as a traumatic injury. ADRS is an underlying medical condition. It is triggered after a traumatic event, which allows blood, fluid and tissue to cross the lung barrier into the alveoli (air cells in the lungs), resulting in lung collapse. Once the alveoli are compromised, the dog’s breathing will become laboured. Symptoms include struggling to breathe, coughing, discharge from the nostrils, fever and blue discolouration of the skin. ARDS is a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary treatment.
- Affected Breeds: Dalmatian
