A highly endearing breed; gentle and kind in nature, Bassets make excellent companions and owning one is an extremely rewarding experience. They are one of the more robust breeds, but can sometimes be affected by hereditary eye problems. Two main types for owners to be aware of are - Entroption and Ectropion, or Red Eye.
Entropion and Ectropion, or Red Eye, in Basset Hounds
Entropion is where the eyelid turns inwards so that the eyelashes are resting on the corneal surface causing irritation and discomfort. Whereas with Ectropion, the lower eyelid turns outwards with the exposure of the inner conjunctive. In both cases surgical correction may be required depending on the severity of the condition and distress to the animal.
Panosteitis in Basset Hound Puppies and Young Adult Bassets
Sometimes known as 'Growing Pains' or 'Pano,' this is a disease that causes pain in the bone during growth, resulting in lameness in puppies up to 18 months old. Most common in large breeds, such as Basset Hounds, it is a rotational disease that may start in one of the front legs and then rotate around the animals limbs for up to a year.
The problem with Panosteitis is that symptoms can often be confused with elbow displasia or hip displasia, so, as with all other health concerns it is important to consult your veterinarian.
The Risk of Bloat in Basset Hounds
There is no definitive cause of bloat, although exercise after feeding, excess drinking of water after a meal and dried food are all thought to have possible links. To reduce the likelyhood of bloat many Basset owners feed their dogs two small meals a day rather than one large one.
Symptoms of Bloat in Basset Hounds
- The dog's stomach rapidly enlarges and the skin becomes as tight as a drum.
- The dog will be in great pain and distress.
- The dog will try to vomit but will only be able to bring up frothy saliva.
Bloat can be fatal within a very small time frame because the stomach is full of fermenting food and gas and could be twisted. It is a veterinary emergency and when contacting the vet it is helpful to advise them of the possibility of bloat so that they are ready to release the gas upon arrival at the surgery - time is the escence with this condition. The quicker the dog is attended to by a vet the higher the chance of survival.
Of course the chances are a Basset Hound will live to a ripe old age without ever contracting any of these or other potential health conditions and in all cases it goes without saying that if a dog is unwell it's vital to obtain vetinerary advice as soon as possible.
 |
 |
