Border Collies and Common Health Problems

As a breed, are subject to a number of common health problems, Border Collies. Which degenerates from the effects of the bone and the surrounding cartilage deteriorating from osteoarthritis, This involves the hip joint. There is evidence that it may be passed down through genetics or be affected by a dog’s nutrition while young at various important growth levels. Is one of the most common health issues that the breed is known for, Hip Dysplasia, or HD

The affected animal may show no vision problems at all or can be totally blinded but most have only mild problems. Another health issue that strikes these animals is Collie Eye Anomaly, or CEA. Especially around the retina, This disease causes various parts of the eye, to grow abnormally. While adults can be tested through a veterinarian eye exam, The dog can be tested before it is 12 weeks old to see if it has the disease through a genetic test. A border collie may have CEA and not be affected, in which case it will pass it on to the next generation

There is no current indication whether this disease is passed down by the parents or is caused by other factors within the dog’s environment. Or FMAR, Focal or Multifocal Acquired Retinopathy, is a disease that causes the eyes to become inflamed. It manifests in the form of lesions that grow around the dog’s retina. This can cause vision problems and in the most serious cases cause the animal to go blind

Caring For Your Border Collie

However an owner must be well versed on how to properly care for these dogs, Border Collies can be great family dogs

Make sure to provide plenty of chewable bones, and toys to help keep these dogs focused on something. That have plenty of energy, Border Collies are working dogs. These dogs like to chew, and if they lack chew toys they can quickly turn to furniture to satisfy this need

Border Collies are herding dogs by nature, they may receive a nip as the animals instincts take over, and should children try to run from them. Children should be taught not to run from these dogs. And runners will find Border Collies to be good pets, Hikers, as an active lifestyle suits these dogs very well. Because of their high energy these dogs make great companions for active people

Like many other pure bred dogs, are subject to many common health problems, Border Collies. They often times suffer from hipUnderstanding these health problems can help an owner to prepare for any ailments which may befall their pet later in life. Dysplasia, and blindness runs in the bloodlines of many border Collies. And find out if their dogs have been screened for the possibility of some of these disorders, Make sure to speak with the breeder

Plenty of exercise, and regular trips to the vet will help your dog live a long and happy life. As with all dogs, keeping up with vaccinations if a must. But in a few cases they can live as long as 18 years, If treated will the average lifespan for Border Collies is between 12 and 15 years

Introduction into Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS)

Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome, better known as TNS, was first recognised in 1996 in New Zealand and Australia, with Australian research is leading the world.

This debilitating disease has only been recognised in the Border Collie breed for the last 8 years and there is no known cure or treatment for affected puppies and dogs.

TNS is usually seen in young puppies before they go to their forever homes, but some puppies do not show signs until up to 7 months old.

There is no treatment for TNS, except to treat the symptoms and keep the pup as comfortable as possible.

Often owners need to make the hard decision to put their young companion to sleep to end its suffering.

As the members of specialist clubs catering for the Border Collie breed across Australia will be aware, the AVA-ANKC Australian Canine Eye Scheme has been in operation for almost four years.

Qualified specialist ACES Panellists (appointed by the AVA Board) have conducted detailed eye examinations on adult dogs using standardised procedures as prescribed under ACES Rules, in addition to offering breeders a Litter Screening service for pups less than 12 weeks old....