Ailments of the nose

Continued from last week

Difficult breathing
in short-nosed dogs
Certain breeds like the Pekinese, the Bulldog, Cocker Spaniels, Boston Terriers, and a ‘new’ type we are now calling the ‘Pom-Pek’ (you know, those dogs with faces looking as if they had a run in with a concrete wall and came out second with caved-in faces) seem to have a genetically-based predisposition to experience difficult breathing. I should mention, however, that we have encountered this problem in ‘common breeds’ as well. Actually, the precipitating cause of this problem is simply that the cartilage tissue in their nostrils is too soft.

Consequently, when the dogs (especially when they are in infancy) take in deep breaths the nostrils collapse and not enough air is inhaled. This problem is increased if the puppies/adults become very excited. Of course, when the animal is in a state of oxygen deprivation (suffocating), then more panic sets in, thus creating the need for faster and deeper breathing in order to force the air into the nasal passages. The nostrils then close down even tighter. Furthermore, in climates such as ours (hot and humid), breathing is an especially difficult proposition. Also, since dogs have no sweat glands, they are compelled to use the respiratory process to get rid of excess heat (panting).

All this is a very disturbing state of affairs, especially when the animal gasps for air through the mouth. They can become cyanotic (blue from the lack of oxygen and the increase of carbon dioxide which, because of the closed nostrils, can’t be efficiently exhaled either). The sequel of an aggravated oxygen deficiency and carbon dioxide accumulation is unconsciousness.

Most of these animals compensate by learning early in their lives to breathe through their mouths. But, since this is not the optimal way to get oxygen, these puppies grow into unthrifty adolescents and adults.

The treatment is surgery. Pieces of the nasal cartilage are removed. This, in effect, creates an enlarged nasal orifice, thus allowing more air to enter and exit the nasal passages. Obviously, only a skilled veterinary surgeon can undertake such an operation.
Cleft palates/harelip
Cleft palates and harelips result from a failure of the bones of the palate to close together (fusion) during embryonic development. As a consequence, there is direct contact between the nostrils and the oral cavity. We used to think this is solely a genetic defect. New data are suggesting that other factors may be involved in the development of this abnormality. Nutritional deficiencies of the mother during pregnancy, exposure of the fetuses to specific drugs (eg steroids) and chemicals (toxic agents), certain stress conditions, infections and even physical interference with the foetuses seem to be associated with breathing problems (respiratory distress) in ‘hare-lipped’ animals.

The first sign that there is a chasm in the roof of the mouth of the puppy or kitten is the dripping of milk from the nostrils. Suckling milk (nursing) itself is a problem, since the needed vacuum (suction) can’t be created, so the puppy can’t get the colostrum (first milk from the nursing mother which contains antibodies as a defence against infection), or any form of nutrition. The puppy literally starves to death, if it is not hand fed.

Again, corrective surgery is the only solution to the problem. Such animals should not be allowed to breed (reproduce).

Enjoy the coming week.
Please implement disease preventative measures (vaccinations, routine dewormings, monthly anti-heartworm medication, etc) and adopt-a-pet from the GSPCA’s Animal Clinic and Shelter at Robb Street and Orange Walk, if you have the wherewithal to care well for the animals.  Do not stray your unwanted pets, take them to the GSPCA’s Clinic and Shelter instead. If you do not wish your pet to have puppies or kittens, you may exploit the GSPCA’s free spay and neutering programme. If you see anyone being cruel to an animal, or if you need any technical information, please get in touch with the Clinic and Shelter by calling 226-4237.