Canine Pulmonic Stenosis is a congenital heart defect that affects dogs. It’s caused by a pulmonary valve abnormally narrowing in their heart, which restricts blood flow from the right side of their heart to their lungs. This narrowing valve leads to increased pressure in the right side of their heart and reduced oxygen levels in their blood. Pulmonic Stenosis can occur in any dog breed, but is most commonly seen in small breeds such as Pugs and Chihuahuas. The disease is usually diagnosed through a physical examination, echocardiogram, and electrocardiogram.
Symptoms of Canine Pulmonic Stenosis
The symptoms of Pulmonic Stenosis can vary depending on the severity of their disease. Common symptoms include:
- Rapid or abnormal heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Fatigue
- Exercise intolerance
In severe cases, dogs could collapse or pass out due to low oxygen levels in their blood.
Diagnosing Canine Pulmonic Stenosis
Pulmonic Stenosis can typically be diagnosed by a physical examination, echocardiogram, and electrocardiogram. During a physical exam, the veterinarian will listen to your dog’s heart with a stethoscope for any abnormal sounds that could indicate Pulmonic Stenosis. An echocardiogram is a diagnostic test that uses ultrasonic waves to create an image of their heart and its valves, and can help detect any abnormalities. Finally, an electrocardiogram (EKG) will measure electrical activity in their heart to determine if there are any issues with their blood flow.
Stages of Canine Pulmonic Stenosis
Pulmonic Stenosis is typically split into four stages, depending on the severity of their pulmonary valve narrowing.
Stage 1
Mild stenosis, with no symptoms.
Stage 2
Moderate stenosis, with mild symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue.
Stage 3
Severe stenosis, with more pronounced symptoms such as fainting and exercise intolerance.
Stage 4
Critical stenosis, with extreme symptoms such as heart failure and collapsing.
Treating Canine Pulmonic Stenosis
Pulmonic Stenosis can be treated with medication, surgery, or other therapies. In mild cases, medications such as diuretics and ACE inhibitors can help reduce the pressure in the right side of their heart and improve oxygen levels in their blood. In more severe cases, surgical intervention will be necessary to repair their narrow pulmonary valve.
Other treatment options include balloon valvuloplasty, where a balloon is inserted into the pulmonary valve to widen it, and stenting, which places a metal tube at the site of the narrowing to keep it open. In extreme cases, a heart transplant can be necessary if the dog’s condition is too advanced for other treatments.
Pulmonic Stenosis is a serious condition, and treatment should be started as soon as possible to avoid any complications. With proper care, dogs with Pulmonic Stenosis can lead healthy lives.
Preventing Canine Pulmonic Stenosis
Pulmonic Stenosis is a congenital condition and is not preventable. It’s important for dog owners to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Pulmonic Stenosis so they can get medical help as soon as possible if their pet has signs of the disease. It’s also important for dog owners to work with a veterinarian to ensure their pet is receiving the proper diet and exercise, because this can help keep their hearts healthy.