Due to genetics, beagles are prone to heart diseases such as dilated cardiomyopathy, ventricular septal defect, and pulmonic stenosis. Heart conditions are diagnosed with an X-ray and ECG or EKG machine. Signs of heart disease usually consist of coughing, respiratory problems and lethargy. This article describes three of the most common congenital heart diseases in beagles.
-
Dilated cardiomyopathy
-
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart has a decreased ability to pump blood throughout the body due to dilated heart chambers, a thin heart muscle and decreased contractility. Symptoms may include coughing, fainting, weight loss, trouble breathing, and lethargy. According to Dr. Nelson, DVM from Washington State University, fluid may also accumulate in the abdomen or around the lungs. Medication is available to treat symptoms. For severe cases, surgery such as placing a defibrillator to control heart rate, may be required.
Ventricular septal defect
-
Ventricular septal defect, also termed ̶0;hole in the heart,̶1; is the condition in which the heart chambers do not develop completely, causing a hole between the left and right ventricles. According to Dr. Foster, DVM, signs of ventricular septal defect include heart murmurs, decrease in stamina or a stunt in growth. In minor cases, dogs can live normally without problems and therefore treatment is not necessary. However, with more severe cases that may shorten the lifespan, surgery can be performed.
Pulmonic stenosis
-
Pulmonic stenosis is a condition in which the pulmonic valve is defective or obstructed. For mild cases, no symptoms may be present and dogs can live normally. For severe cases, dogs may develop signs of heart failure such as loss of appetite, coughing, arrhythmia, heart murmurs, and fainting spells. Veterinarians may prescribe medication to alleviate congestive heart failure and arrhythmias. For severe cases, surgery is required.
-