Monday, November 25, 2013

Important Facts On 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.

Since the heart does not pump adequate blood into the system, blood pressure builds up and fluid begins to leak out of blood vessels. This causes congestion to the tissues and the excess fluid to gather in the lungs and abdominal cavity. The dog will look like he has a bloated looking tummy because of this. The symptoms will slowly worsen and the dog's health will deteriorate when left unchecked.

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.

There are several herbal and homeopathic remedies that aid in curing canine heart conditions in a safe way. Cardio tonic herb Crateagus oxycantha or Hawthorne contain anti oxidant properties that serve to strengthen the arterial walls. Arnica montana, Kalium phosphate, and Calcium fluoride help keep up and promote the healthy blood pressure of dogs.

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.

It is always better to use natural remedies first before subjecting your dog to medications that have chemicals that may complicate their health problems, if they have any. A simple ultrasound or x-ray will verify if they do have a heart condition that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.




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