Indications, Effects, And Treatment Methods Of Pulmonary Stenosis In Dogs

Pulmonary stenosis causes difficulty with the proper flow of blood into the heart because of a congenital problem with the pulmonary valve. Heart murmurs, heart failure, and congestive heart failure are all symptoms that are caused by this condition.

Several kinds of dogs appear to be at the greatest risk of contracting this disease, including Scottish Terriers, English Bulldogs, and Chihuahuas. For a proper diagnosis and recommendations, consult your veterinarian if your dog appears to be developing cardiovascular issues. Learn about pulmonic stenosis in dogs, its indications, effects, and treatment methods.

Indications

Depending on whether the condition is valvular, subvalvular, or supravalvular, pulmonic stenosis can cause different symptoms in dogs. Some dogs may not exhibit any symptoms at all.

There are, however, a few general symptoms that appear:

• Lack of motivation to exercise
• Shortness of breath
• An irregular heartbeat
• Collapse
• Abdominal swell (also known as abdominal distension)

Effects

Pulmonic stenosis in dogs is congenital, meaning the condition is present from birth. It seems that some dogs are at a higher risk than others. The following are some of the most common dogs affected by this condition:

• Beagles
• Scottish Terriers
• English Bulldogs
• Boxers
• Boston Terrier
• Newfoundlands
• Cocker Spaniels
• Chihuahuas
• Miniature Schnauzers
• Samoyeds

Treatment by a veterinarian

As a first step to diagnosing pulmonic stenosis in your dog, your veterinarian will want to review your dog’s medical history and perform a full physical examination. The doctor will take blood and urine tests to determine if there are any other conditions.

For the proper examination of your dog’s heart and abdomen, your veterinarian may also recommend X-rays and other imaging techniques. Treatment depends on how badly the heart valve of the dog is obstructed and how severe the condition is.

The most severely affected dogs may need hospitalization, and vets may perform a procedure called valvuloplasty to clear obstructions in the valve.

Your vet may prescribe medicine during your dog’s recovery period. You should always follow your vet’s instructions carefully when it comes to giving your dog any medication, so make sure you follow the frequency and dosage directions.