Australian Shepherd

While Aussie are generally healthy dogs they can also suffer from a number of illnesses and diseases that include:

Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that occurs when the bones and joints do not fit together properly.  As this conditions can cause arthritis later in the dog’s life, it is essential to begin treatment as soon as possible.

Genetic eye problems. Aussie are susceptible to a number of eye problems including Progressive Retinal Atrophy that is cause be a recessive gene that can result in blindness.  This disease may not be evident until later in a dog’s life. Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) is also a hereditary disease that can be diagnosed in the Australian Shepherd.  Juvenile cataracts are also a serious defect that can lead to blindness. Colobomas is also a genetic eye problem where part of the structure of the eye is missing.  Puppies can have their eyes examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist to determine defects.

Multiple Drug Sensitivity (MDS). MDS can also affect Australian Shepherds.  MDS occurs when dogs are susceptible to having fatal reactions to common veterinary drugs including heartworm prevention medicine.  There is a simple vet test that can determine whether the dog has MDS.

Epilepsy. Australian Shepherds can also suffer from epilepsy.

Congenital Deafness. Aussies with white or merle coats are more susceptible to congenital deafness.  This deafness occurs when the blood supply to the cochlea degenerates leading to the death of the nerve cells.  This defective gene is inherited.

Not all conditions are covered by Pet Insurance. For details of Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance cover, refer to the Product Disclosure Statement.