Degenerative Myelopathy German Shepherd Test

A German Shepherd Test Can Identify Symptoms of Dog Waste and Other Health Problems

The German Shepherd is one of the more common breeds afflicted with degenerative myelopathy. This condition, which can progress to the point of death if not treated, affects the hip joint.

In addition, the disease attacks the bones and muscles and may affect internal organs. Although there are multiple treatment options for this condition, most veterinarians recommend treatment that includes a glucosamine supplement.

The first step in treating this condition is testing the dog’s blood to determine what the blood reveals.

Myelodysplasia (alteration of the normal bones) or a disease of the muscle or bone tissue is the most commonly diagnosed condition in the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherds that suffer from myelodysplasia show marked differences in the blood test results between them and normal German Shepherds. Blood tests for these dogs can be done at the veterinarian’s office or a private laboratory. Myelodysplasia can be diagnosed by:

Urinalysis.

This test is usually done to detect albumin, a compound that is found in urine. High levels of albumin are indicative of the condition. A urinalysis sample is taken and sent to the lab for evaluation. A definitive diagnosis is made from the analysis of the test results.

Urine chemistry test.

This test is done to detect the presence of polyps in the kidney. Different forms of kidney cells may appear in the urine causing a malfunction in kidney function. Blood tests are typically not recommended for this condition.

Urinary albumin/blood test.

This test is typically recommended for all dogs suspected of having the condition. The blood sample is tested for inflammatory factors, albumin concentration, and other proteins. An individual treatment option will be prescribed based on the results of the test.

Plasma protein panel.

This panel screens for the presence of autoimmune diseases such as Leukemia, Scleroderma, and Idiopathic Arthritis. A conclusive diagnosis is then made from the results of the panel.

Surgery.

Medications and drugs that are used in the treatment of the disease may also be prescribed for your German Shepherd. Surgery may be necessary to remove part of the kidney or to perform a neurectomy.

A degenerative myelopathy German Shepherd is a serious condition but with early detection, it can be easily treated. A veterinarian can give you the correct diagnosis and treatment. Myelodysplasia is the most common kidney disease among dogs and can be prevented. Your German Shepherd should be checked regularly for this condition to make sure he/she is healthy.

A nephrologist can check for nephrocalcinosis, a condition where the kidneys are excessively infected.

They perform a nephrology exam and do cultures. They look for evidence of infection on the anterior livers or in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. Blood tests are usually done, to make sure the levels of creatinine are normal. Urine output should be normal, blood pH between acid and alkaline should be balanced and urine should be in normal color.

After the age of one year, if there are still no signs of infection or abnormal kidney function, treatment options are more limited and your dog’s prognosis is guarded. You need to consider dialysis, which helps keep your pet’s kidney function at peak levels. Treatment often involves medications and surgery.

As a German Shepherd owner, you have a responsibility to take care of your dog.

You need to be aware of the development of this condition and seek treatment when it is suspected. You must take your dog to the vet at the first sign of a problem, so treatment can begin immediately. The earlier you start treatment, the better. This is especially true if you have other dogs at the house with the same condition.

The goal of treatment is to prevent any further damage to the kidneys or the bladder. An adjustable, comfortable bed is the main asset to helping a dog recover from this condition.

Limpets are prescribed to help your dog’s legs remain limber and prevent further injury to the kidneys or bladder.

Your dog’s diet should also be taken into consideration. Avoid feeding your dog milk or any commercially prepared diet. Instead, feed him scraps and bones.

This condition will have some side effects. Loss of appetite and weight loss may be one of them. Untreated German Shepherds can develop kidney failure, which is potentially fatal. Your dog’s blood count, electrolyte levels, and serum calcium levels should all be checked regularly. A German Shepherd test can help identify any potential problems and can be done in the veterinarian’s office in a matter of minutes.