Canine Heart Attack Symptoms
A dog is not prone to having heart attacks like a human, although he can certainly have problems with his heart. When a dog suddenly collapses, he should immediately be taken to the vet just in case it is heart disease or congenital heart failure. Sometimes this collapse is referred to as a "canine heart attack."
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Features
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The two main symptoms of a canine heart attack or heart failure are sudden collapse and seizures. The heart will also be beating erratically or not at all.
Expert Advice
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According to "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook," you should feel the dog's heart rate if a dog suddenly collapses or experiences a seizure. It is important to keep in mind that if a dog is experiencing a seizure, he may be prone to biting.
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Time Frame
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Although there are many reasons that a dog could have these symptoms, you should take him to a vet right away, just in case it is heart failure. According to Pet Place, if the dog is suddenly fine in four minutes or less, than it is probably not heart failure, but the dog should still go to the vet.
Misconception
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According to both "The Veterinarians' Guide to Your Dog's Symptoms" and Pet Place, you should not attempt CPR on your dog, unless for some reason he has completely stopped breathing. CPR can often hurt a dog's ribs and chest.
Size
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According to the American Veterinary Association, at least 3.2 million pet dogs in America have heart disease that could lead to heart failure.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Image from Wikimedia Commons.
