This week we will look at lupus, which is an autoimmune disease.

The causes of lupus are unknown,but it is thought that it may have something to do with the genetic make up ofyour dog. Lupus can strike many organs and is life threatening. Because antibodies are produced against a variety of organs, signs vary depending onthe organ in question. You can get severe damage in the kidneys and bloodvessels. In other cases it is the red blood cells that are hit and killed off,causing anaemia. Both humans and dogs can get lupus. Some breed of dogs,including collies, Shepard's and shelties, are more predisposed to lupus.

The signs to watch out for are fever,lameness, bruising, sores on paws and inside the mouth, hair loss, scabs on thetop of the tail or ears, appetite loss, inability to walk or lack of interestin walking and enlarged lymph nodes, spleen and liver. The kidneys are often introuble due to large amounts of protein in the pee.

Because lupus can appear in many guises, yourvet will have to do a blood test, urinalysis, as well as a host of other tests.The outlook for dogs with lupus isn't great, with many passing away due toeither the disease or complications. Your vet will give you the best advice. There is no prevention and treatment is life long with frequent visits to thevet for monitoring. Again, it is essential that you get your dog to the vet intime.

Now, just a quick word on Christmas and the giving of pets as presents. We would ask you not to do so, as Christmas isactually the worst time to introduce a new pet to your home, for the followingreasons. You will be having visitors, parties, noise, decorations, peoplecalling all the time, which can be very unsettling for a new pet to adapt to. Also, do not surprise someone with a pet; they may not want it and it could putthe animal's life in danger if it is dumped.

Our email address is This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Pet Peeves, c/o GSPCA, St Augustine St, Galway.

Comments (0) »

Show/Hide comment form

Name

Email

Title

Comment

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment