Monday, April 1, 2013

What do You Know About Canine Congestive Heart Failure?

By Geraldine Dimarco


Canine congestive heart failure - sounds daunting, but what exactly is it? Congestive heart failure is the result of your dog's heart not being able to function properly. It is often caused by abnormal heart structure that causes the heart to work harder to make up for defects in the organ. When it is overused and insufficient blood is pumped out, heart failure occurs.

Dogs that are suffering from this condition have a bloated abdominal area because of excess fluid retention in the abdominal cavity. Because the heart cannot pump blood normally, blood pressure builds. As the blood pressure rises, fluid leaks out of the blood vessels and causes congestion in the tissues as well as the other vital organs. When left unchecked, symptoms will continue to worsen.

Canine heart problems are more often than not, a product of genetics, birth defect and unfortunate infections such as heartworms. It is exacerbated by certain factors like lack of exercise, old age, poor diet, dirty environment and obesity.

Canine congestive heart disorders are a concern for many pet owners. There are medications and procedures that are available that help the heart pump blood more effectively. However, it would be good to learn more about natural healing for a dog with congestive heart failure as a better alternative to treat your pet.

Homeopathic and herbal remedies help cure canine heart problems safely. Crateagus oxycantha or as it is better known, Hawthorne, contains anti oxidant properties that strengthen the arteries. Arnica montana, Kalium phosphate, and Calcium fluoride are other ingredients that encourage the dog's healthy blood pressure.

An essential element of natural healing for dog with congestive heart failure is having a nutritional diet. One of the best things to give him are meals that are low in sodium content and high in important vitamins and minerals like calcium, vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, Taurine and L-carnitine. It is highly recommended that you provide your dog fresh food instead of commercial pet food. Some vegetables you can add to his meals are beets, carrots, squash and broccoli.

You can also improve your pet's heart by engaging him in regular physical activities. It's the easiest thing to walk him around the block a few minutes a day or have a weekly playtime in the park. You are helping maintain his cardiovascular and circulatory system as you do so. As you do, keep in mind that balance is necessary - do not overwork and tire your dog excessively.

Canine congestive heart failure, especially when in its progressive stages, is rarely curable. However, early detection and taking the necessary treatment for it may greatly improve the quality of life of your dog. Some symptoms include coughing, difficulty in breathing, lethargy, loss of appetite, fainting and grayish gums.

You should always try natural remedies first before resorting to medications that have chemicals that may harm your dog in the long run. Have him undergo an ultrasound or x-ray to confirm his condition as recommended by your vet.




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