Irish Setter

• Osteochondrosis dissecans is an elbow condition which causes pain and stiffening of the elbow joint. It can affect Irish Setters and can be caused by genetics, improper cartilage growth, trauma or diet. It can be prevented by not over-feeding puppies with foods high in protein.
• Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough of the thyroid hormone. Symptoms include epilepsy, loss of hair, fatigue and patchy skin. It is treatable with medication and a special diet.
• Epilepsy. Possibly inherited, epilepsy is a neurological disorder which causes seizures that can manifest themselves in unusual behaviour, dizziness, rigidity and fainting spells. Though it is frightening to watch, the prognosis for affected dogs is usually quite good, and treatment is available.
• Progressive retinal atrophy refers to a family of eye conditions which lead to the gradual deterioration of the retina, causing first night blindness, then full blindness. There is no cure, but many dogs adapt easily to the loss of sight and can lead relatively normal lives, as long as their environment does not change too drastically.
• Canine Hip Dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a condition where the thighbone and hip joint do not fit together properly, causing pain and lameness. Less severe cases can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications, but surgery may be required for serious cases.
• Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy (HOD). This is a discrete disease that Irish Setters can develop if there is an excess amount of calcium and protein in their diet. HOD causes lameness in the dog and symptoms include fever, swollen joints, tiredness, not wanting to walk, and a loss of appetite. Because it is discrete, it is often recommended to tell your vet to check because it is easily treated with medication.

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