Schnoodle

• Progressive retinal atrophy refers to a family of eye diseases which gradually result in the deterioration of the retina, causing first night blindness then full blindness. There is no cure, but most dogs adapt very easily to the vision loss, provided their environment does not change too much.
• Cataracts. Like in humans, canine cataracts occur when a cloudy membrane forms over the eye, causing vision loss. They can be removed surgically.
• Legg-Perthes disease affects the hip joint and has been known to affect small dog breeds. It lowers the blood supply to the femur and causes the pelvis to disintegrate. Symptoms such as limping and atrophy of the leg muscle occur around the age of 4 – 6 months. Surgery can be undertaken to remove the affected area and the resulting scar tissue creates a “false joint” and the dog usually ends up pain-free.
• Patellar luxation occurs when the bones of the patella are not aligned properly and as a result slip in and out of place, causing pain and an abnormal gait. Mild cases generally do not require treatment and do not impact too much on the dog’s life, but severe cases may require surgery.
• Epilepsy causes mild to severe seizures, which can manifest themselves as unusual behaviour or shaking. Though frightening, most dogs with epilepsy have a generally good prognosis. However, epilepsy can also be a symptom of a larger issue, so it is important to see a vet as soon as possible.
• Diabetes occurs when the body cannot regulate blood levels. Affected dogs do not lose their appetite, but will often lose weight, urinate a lot and get thirsty often. It is treated with a special diet and insulin.
• Addison’s Disease (Hypoadrenocorticism). This serious illness is caused by the insufficient production of adrenal hormones by the adrenal gland. Schnoodles with Addison’s disease may have a poor appetite, appear lethargic and vomit. The symptoms of this disease are not always straightforward so it’s best to visit your vet where tests can be performed.
• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus. Known as “bloat”, gastric dilatation-volvulus is an often-fatal disease occurring if the dog is fed one large meal a day, eats quickly, drinks a lot, or exercises after eating. The stomach becomes distended and twists, and the dog is unable to expel excess gas. The dog’s blood pressure drops, and without immediate attention the dog could die. Symptoms of bloat include excessive salivating, retching, restlessness and lethargy.

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