Disease Description: Anasarca is generalized edema, this includes lymphedema and is often associated with nephrotic syndrome, hypoproteinemia or liver failure resulting from infectious canine hepatitis.

Inherit Mode: -

Disease Symptom: Some breeders and veterinarians have reported noticing the following symptoms in pregnant dogs: Additional weight gain resulting from excessive fluid; Water ring around the teats ;Swollen mammary glands ;Shifting of puppies from one side to another ;Leakage from the vulva.Puppies born with anasarca will have the following symptoms: Bloated or distorted features ;Rubber looking skin ;Flat chest with front legs splayed; Swollen or distended abdomen, legs and or head

Disease Cause: Researchers believe that anasarca is a congenital problem but it is still unclear if this is an inherited condition except in English and French Bulldogs. Some researchers believe that environment also plays a part in the development of anasarca in neonatal puppies. There has not been enough research conducted on anasarca in dogs to definitively report the exact cause of anasarca in dogs.

Disease Diagnose: Only an ultrasound during the later phases of pregnancy can detect whether or not a pregnant female is carrying a puppy that has anasarca. If the entire litter is affected, an ultrasound may not be effective since the puppies are compared to each other looking for abnormalities that would indicate excessive fluid build up. When a puppy is born with anasarca, it is usually very obvious from the visible symptoms that are present. The puppy will have swollen, distorted features and will have a rubber-like appearance to its skin and body.

Treat Method: Puppies that are mildly affected with anasarca have the highest chance of survival and your veterinarian will probably suggest that the puppy be hospitalized while undergoing treatments. Puppies that are severely affected with anasarca are generally recommended for euthanasia. Treatments include elevating the puppy’s head and also extending the neck to clear the airway so your puppy can breathe easier. Urination will need to be encouraged, puppies cannot urinate on their own when they are first born and they will need to be stimulated in order for them to express their bladder. Lasix is becoming an accepted treatment for puppies diagnosed with anasarca.

Breeder Advice: Most puppies that are severely affected by anasarca will not survive; they generally drown in the excess fluid within 30 minutes of being born. Euthanasia is recommended for these puppies so they do not suffer needlessly. Puppies that do survive anasarca can grow normally and lead healthy lives. There are occasions when damage to the puppy’s organs has occurred and the puppy does have health issues that continue for their lifetime.

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