Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia refers to partial or complete loss of the hip joint. Hip dysplasia can cause bone wear and tear and pain associated with this process. If hip dysplasia is diagnosed at an early stage, you can easily correct the problem. In other cases, surgery may be needed to reposition the bones.
Genetics is an important factor provoking the development of the disease. However, maintaining a healthy weight and daily walks will help your companion animal reduce stress on the joints and improve the strength of the muscles around the pelvis.
Dislocation of the kneecap
Dislocation of the kneecap is a hereditary problem. To avoid the discomfort caused by this problem, it’s necessary to exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. A balanced intake of lean meats, eggs, high-quality protein, calcium, and phosphorus will help your important family members develop muscles properly.
Corrective surgery may be necessary to correct severe cases of knee cap dislocation. However, regular veterinary check-ups will detect early signs of disease and allow you to take appropriate measures at an early stage of the problem.
Cataract
Cataracts cause a gradual deterioration of the companion animal’s vision. At this time, the crystal, which is transparent in a healthy eye, acquires a grayish or milky color. Cataracts, as a rule, are caused by an infectious disease or birth trauma during the mother’s pregnancy.
Although the management of congenital diseases is often beyond our control, eating foods rich in vitamins C and E can greatly improve the eye health of your important family member. As a competent parent, remember that regular veterinary check-ups and protecting the eyes from the harmful effects of the sun are prerequisites for effective disease management.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Progressive retinal atrophy causes gradual degeneration of the retina and loss of vision. The mentioned disease is passed on to companion animals by inheritance. Regular eye exams and a diet rich in antioxidants can help maintain retinal health. Before purchasing an important family member, carefully research their genetics and make sure that your future companion does not have a genetic predisposition to vision problems.
Dry Eye Syndrome
Insufficient intake of water can cause dry eyes. Difficulty producing tears leads to eye irritation and vision problems. The climate is often seen as a provoking circumstance for eye problems. For instance, if you plan to spend the summer with your beloved friend at the seaside, it’s advisable to take special care and keep your companion animal out of the heat as much as possible.
Pay particular attention to early symptoms of eye disease, such as redness and tearing. It’s advisable to visit a veterinarian as soon as these symptoms appear. As a competent parent, keep in mind that daily eye care and regular cleaning of the eyes with hygiene products specially designed for dogs are essential for the prevention of diseases.
Brachycephaly
Just like the Bulldog and the Boxer, the Shih Tzu is brachycephalic, meaning it has a short nose and narrow nostrils. That’s why these important members of the family are prone to breathing difficulties and snoring as the temperature rises. Their breathing problem worsens with weight gain as well. Therefore, eating healthy food and monitoring weight are of particular importance for preventing the problem.
Due to the brachycephalic structure of the skull, it’s especially dangerous to leave the Shih Tzu indoors for a long time. Also, avoid walking in the sun. High air temperature and direct sunlight cause a large amount of mucus to accumulate in the nasal cavity of our companion animals and cause breathing difficulties.
Intervertebral Hernia
An intervertebral hernia is an inflammatory disease that causes deformation of the intervertebral disc, rupture of the fibrous ring, and protrusion of the vertebral body. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Veterinarians employ anti-inflammatory drugs to treat mild cases, and surgery to manage severe cases.
