How to Care for the Health of a Siberian Husky
For most people, a pet is like another member of the family and thus you want it to a live long and healthy life. Just like humans, certain breeds of animals can be genetically predisposed for specific ailments and diseases. Siberian Huskies in particular are most commonly at risk for things like cataracts, lupus and hip dysplasia. Taking your Siberian Husky for regular visits to the vet and keeping it active will help your husky stay healthy and feeling good.
Instructions
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Exercise vigilance when it comes to the eye care of your Siberian Husky. Genetically, Siberian Huskies are more prone to develop vision problems due to ailments such as corneal dystrophy, progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, which affect approximately 10 percent of Siberian Huskies. While huskies are more likely to develop these diseases as they get older, it's important to have your veterinarian examine your husky's eyes and vision during each visit. The majority of these vision problems can be corrected with medication or surgery if caught early enough.
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Monitor your Siberian Husky's fur and skin closely. Huskies are more apt to develop allergies and skin diseases, including lupus and follicular dysplasia, which causes alopecia (hair loss). Siberian Huskies typically develop follicular dysplasia when they are around 3 or 4 months old, so watch for symptoms like abnormal shedding and bald spots early in the dog's life.
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Check your husky's leg and joint movements often. A high number of purebred dogs suffer from hip dysplasia and other orthopedic diseases because of the isolation of genetics through the breeding processes. Though a low number of Siberian Huskies develop this condition, it's still advised to watch for warning signs, such as your dog having difficulty running or walking. Starting at 2 years of age, your veterinarian can perform X-ray exams on your husky to see if the dog is developing any symptoms of the disease.
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Feed your husky food that will result in a healthy and balanced diet. While most brands of dry dog food are acceptable, compare the list of ingredients on each bag and buy the one that is highest in protein and fatty acids. Foods containing poultry and fish oil are optimal, and some husky owners buy fish oil pills and mix them in with their husky's food. Avoid foods that contain beef, horse meat and yellow corn, and foods that are high in wheat.
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Give your husky plenty of exercise. Exercise is crucial for any living being, even dogs. If your husky doesn't receive enough exercise, it is more prone to becoming overweight, which then opens the door to a whole realm of health issues. Play catch with your husky, and take it for long walks or jogs.
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Tips & Warnings
Like with all pets, it is advised you take your husky for checkups with a veterinarian at least once a year. It is also advised to get your husky vaccinated against rabies and other diseases.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
