Blood then leaks back around this valve and strains the heart. They usually occur in the skin but can occur elsewhere, especially in the gastrointestinal tract (Misdorp 2004, Dobson & Scase 2007, Valent 2010). In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. You might notice that he runs along and suddenly picks up a back leg and skips or hops for a few strides. We can treat the arthritisthe sooner the betterto minimize discomfort and pain. It has been reported that, despite treatment, around half of dogs with high grade tumours die within a year (Murphy et al 2004). These chemicals can have adverse effects both locally and elsewhere (Misdorp 2004, Dobson & Scase 2007). Manson Publishing Ltd, London, Owen L (1980) TNM Classification of Tumours in Domestic Animals. Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, so early detection and removal is critical. More commonly, affected animals develop gastrointestinal disease, especially ulceration, as a result of histamine release by the tumour. Mast cell tumours are the second commonest malignant tumour of dogs, affecting 129 per 100,000 insured dogs each year (Dobson et al 2002, Brnden et al 2010), and they represent around 20 per cent of all the skin tumours reported (Dorn et al 1968). The Staffordshire radiates energy and is enthusiastic in everything she does. Diagnostic tests and treatments for the disease may also have adverse welfare effects (Ladue et al 1998, Chaffin & Thrall 2002, Weisse et al 2002, London et al 2009, Blackwood 2010, Robat et al 2010). World Health Organization: Geneva, Switzerland, Patnaik AK, Ehler WJ and MacEwen EG (1984) Canine cutaneous mast cell tumor: morphologic grading and survival time in 83 dogs. These welfare effects can be a result of both the mechanical effects of the tumour(s) (e.g. Their powerful jaws require a multitude of durable chew toys. Misaligned teeth can also occur and cause lots of problems, but can usually be corrected with braces or extractions. They also play a central role in allergic reactions (Gorman & Halliwell 1989, Misdorp 2004, Dobson & Scase 2007). We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. There are also several types of the systemic form of the disease in which the disease is found throughout the body. It is a serious disease that may causeor worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Several different specific structural defects are sometimes seen in Staffies eyes. We know that because you care so much about your dog, you want to take good care of her. Shell feel better, and so will you! Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. The appearance of cutaneous (skin) mast cell tumours is very variable. Diagnosis is usually made by microscopic examination of cells collected by insertion of a needle into the tumour (Baker-Gabb et al 2003). Wiley-Blackwell; 2010. AAHA Press; 2011. It is possible and desirable to check the likely suitability of treatment of the tumour by TKI chemotherapy (Blackwood 2010). Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest herskin and ears. A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Well clean your dogs teeth regularly and let you know what you can do at home to keep those pearly whites clean. Although Staffordshire bull terriers are more likely to develop mast cell tumours than dogs of other breeds, Dobson & Scase (2007) have suggested that these tumours are more likely to be benign in bulldog type breeds, which probably includes Staffordshire bull terriers, than in other breeds. Give us a call for an appointment if you notice any of these types of signs: Seek medical care immediately if you notice any of these types of signs: DNA testing is a rapidly advancing field with new tests constantly emerging to help in the diagnosis of inherited diseases before they can become a problem for your friend. doi:10.1111/j.1476-5829.2011.00261.x, Scott DW, Miller WH and Griffin CE (1995) Mast cell tumour. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a small but powerful breed. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs. It wont help him, and he may bite you accidentally! Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. All suspicious lumps should be tested and any questionable lump should be surgically removed as soon as possible. Crook A, Dawson S, Cote E, MacDonald S, Berry J. Canine Inherited Disorders Database [Internet]. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. Mast cell tumours cannot be diagnosed by visual examination because their appearance is very variable (Nuttall et al 2009). Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. Not many things have as dramatic an impact on your dogs quality of life as the proper functioning of his eyes. In mastocytosis, for example, mast cell tumours appear throughout the body and large numbers of mast cells are found in the bone marrow. This appears to be influenced partly by the site of the tumour. Mast cell tumours causing solitary masses on the skin may affect welfare for only a relatively short period of a few weeks if successfully treated. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Stafford is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. All dogs have them. The appearance of a mast cell tumour in the skin is very variable and can be hard to distinguish from other growths. There is no doubt that the high prevalence of mast cell tumours in Staffordshire bull terriers has a genetic basis as the predisposition of these dogs to developing the disease is well-recognised (Peters 1969, Scott et al 1995, Baker-Gabb et al 2003, Dobson & Scase 2007). If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Staffie looking and feeling her best. She can be sensitive to warm temperatures; avoid any prolonged exposure and be very alert to the signs of heat stress. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans or OCD. If you would like to make a personal donation or learn more about their organization, please click on the links below. When symptoms are severe, surgery may be needed to realign the kneecap to keep it from popping out of place. Dont worry; well discuss the specific problems we will be looking for when the time arrives. Well also recommend preventive medication as necessary to keep herhealthy. 2011. Prompt veterinary care is important to keep the disease from getting out of hand. Recently-developed drugs may prove more effective (London et al 2009, Blackwood 2010, Robat et al 2010). (for more information click on the links below). Their welfare effects range from the local itching, discomfort and pain associated with localised tumours in the skin, to the more severe pain, discomfort and malaise that is experienced when internal organs are affected or as a result of gastrointestinal ulceration caused by the release of the chemical histamine. Later, a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss are characteristic. Surgical procedures including spay/neuter, Ultrasonic dental cleanings, dental radiographs. Diagnosis is usually made through the microscopic examination of cells collected by inserting a needle into the tumour (Baker-Gabb et al 2003). Dental disease is the most common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two. However, tackling this disease by selective breeding is, at present, complicated by the fact that these tumours often develop after breeding age (Nuttall et al 2009). Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. It is thought that the more severe, widespread, and malignant the mast cell tumour, the more likely it is for these more serious effects to occur (Dobson & Scase 2007). This is when well give her the necessary check-ups and test for diseases and conditions that are common in Staffords. One of the best things you can do for your Stafford is to have her spayed (neutered for males). Most of these developmental errors cause no problems at all, some can only be detected by a vet using special tests, some are obvious, and a few can cause serious vision problems. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. In mild cases, pet owners may notice a few dry, irritated, hairless lesions. If not successfully treated, they are likely to cause increasing discomfort, pain, distress and ultimately, death. There are a few different types of stones that can form in the kidney or in the bladder, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers are more likely to develop them than other breeds. Some grade II masses seem to benefit from more extensive surgery and sometimes adjuvant radiation of the surrounding area (Dobson & Scase 2007). Veterinary Pathology 21: 469474, Peters JA (1969) Canine mastocytoma: excess risk as related to ancestry. These have been defined by the type of mast cells involved and the sites at which they occur (Marconato et al 2008, Valent 2010). Pets with heart valve disease (sometimes called mitral valve disease) have a heart murmur. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Staffie is more likely than other dogs to be affected. However, tackling the disease by selective breeding is, at present, complicated by the fact that these tumours often develop after breeding age (Nuttall et al 2009). There can be both mechanical effects (eg due to the tumour compressing or compromising the movement of surrounding tissues) and chemical effects, due to the release of histamine and other biologically active substances produced by the tumour cells, that make the skin inflamed and itchy or painful, and which cause gastrointestinal ulceration and pain. Neoplasia 8: 104-11, Weisse C, Shofer FS and Sorenmo K (2002) Recurrence Rates and Sites for Grade II Canine Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumors Following Complete Surgical Excision. These chemicals make the skin in the area inflamed and itchy or painful, and can cause gastrointestinal ulceration with associated pain. When mature, they are found in blood vessels where they become activated by antibodies or local tissue damage, chemicals or heat. Once activated, they release a variety of biologically active chemicals (the best known being histamine) that cause local inflammation, and which attract other types of immune system cells to the site. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Then he kicks his leg out sideways to pop the kneecap back in place, and hes fine again. In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch. Well do periodic blood tests and look for lumps and bumps at each exam. And unfortunately, your Stafford is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dont worrywell show you how! Journal of Small Animal Practice 43: 240-6, Dobson JM and Scase TJ (2007) Advances in the diagnosis and management of cutaneous mast cell tumours in dogs. The duration of the period when welfare is compromised depends on the malignancy, form and site of the tumour. The gene, c-KIT, is known to be involved in some, but not all, canine mast cell tumours (London et al 1990). They adore people, chewing, and playing. Occasionally anaphylaxis, a systemic allergic response in which the whole body is affected, may occur in dogs with mast cell tumours. We will describe the most common issues seen inStaffordshire Bull Terriersto give you an idea of what may come up in her future. There has been some research into the genetic causes of mast cell tumours but the roles of the genes involved (see above) remain unclear (Munday et al 2009) and there are no published studies regarding heritability or the pattern of inheritance. Available from: http://ic.upei.ca/cidd/breed/staffordshire-bull-terrier, Breed Specific Health Concerns [Internet]. Bell JS, Cavanagh KE, Tilley LP, Smith FW. If your buddy has blood in his urine, cant urinate, or is straining to urinate, it is a medical emergency. Mast cell tumours (MCT) are one of the commonest forms of neoplasia in dogs. A heart valve slowly becomes deformed so that it no longer closes tightly. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Staffordshire Bull Terrier needs help. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Veterinary medical guide to dog and cat breeds. If heart valve disease is diagnosed early, we may be able to prescribe medications that could prolong his life for many years. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? These cancerous growths can be solitary masses of cells that are benign (ie unlikely to spread) or they can be malignant and likely to spread to other parts of the body via the lymphatic or blood systems. due to compression or compromising the movement of surrounding tissues) and of the effects of the histamine and the other biologically active substances produced by the tumour cells. She is happy and animated with a smile on her face. Ackerman L. The Genetic Connection: A Guide to Health Problems in Purebred Dogs. In: Muller & Kirks Small Animal Dermatology 5th edition pp 1056 WB Saunders, Philadelphia, Valent P (2010) Diagnosis, Classification, and Therapy of Mastocytosis. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. In severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended. The same tests will need to be repeated at least every year to monitor the condition. An overbite or underbite is called a malocclusion, or a bad bite. In addition to making the diagnosis, it is important to try to predict the tumours behaviour: whether benign or highly malignant. As far as we are aware there are no data on the proportion of Staffordshire bull terriers that develop these tumours but it is believed that they are particularly prone to them. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. (Yes, dogs can get braces!) Exercise your dog regularly, but dont overdo it at first. A DNA test is available, and affected or carrier dogs should be neutered to avoid passing on the condition. Mast cell tumours causing solitary masses on the skin may affect welfare for only a relatively short period of a few weeks, if they are successfully treated. If not treated successfully, they are likely to cause increasing discomfort, pain, distress and ultimately, death. Various medications may also be needed. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier originated in England during the 19th century. Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth, Itchy skin (scratching, chewing, or licking), hair loss, Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping, Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes, Dry, scaly, sometimes itchy hairless patches on face or paws, Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge, Inability or straining to urinate; discolored urine, Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes, Leg stiffness, reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, jump, or bunny hopping, Drinks and urinates more, eats more, potbelly, poor haircoat, Coughing, especially at night or upon rising after sleeping, rapid breathing at rest, Any abnormal shaking, trembling, or excessive involuntary tremors. Watch for exercise intolerance, loud breathing, coughing, bluish gums, or fainting. If the problem is mild and involves only one leg, your friend may not require much treatment beyond arthritis medication. They were initially used for bull and bear baiting and then for dog fighting. This problem is often an inherited condition, with Staffordshire Bull Terriers commonly afflicted. If we dont prevent or treat dental disease, your buddy will lose her teeth and be in danger of damaging her kidneys, liver, heart, and joints. Normally a dogs immune system keeps the mites in check, but some breeds, like your Stafford, develop an overabundance of these mites. Of course, we cant cover every possibility here, so always check with us if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms. Gough A, Thomas A. Reactive seizures are caused by the brains reaction to a metabolic problem like low blood sugar, organ failure, or a toxin. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into hersystem in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. All of these things lead to a narrow and obstructed airway. Watch her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, regularly brush her teeth and coat, and call us or a pet emergency hospital when something seems unusual (see What to Watch For below). There may also be adverse welfare consequences associated with efforts to diagnose and treatment these tumours (whoch may include surgery and radiotherapy) (Ladue et al 1998, Blackwood 2010, Chaffin & Thrall 2002, Weiss et al 2002, London et al 2009, Robat et al 2010). Your dog is special! Its best to stick to our recommended growth rate of no more than four pounds per week. It is likely, since there is clearly a genetic basis to the Staffordshire bull terriers predisposition to develop the disease, that breeding only from dogs that have not had mast cell tumours would result in reduction in its prevalence. Eyeballs are pretty complicated structures, and sometimes they dont grow exactly according to plan. ContinueFind out more, An information resource for prospective pet owners, Related terms: mastocytoma, mast cell sarcoma, mastocytosis. Veterinary Radiology and Ultrasound 43:392395, Dobson JM, Samuel S, Milstein H, Rogers K and Wood JL (2002) Canine neoplasia in the UK: estimates of incidence rates from a population of insured dogs. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Staffie live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. Outline: Staffordshire bull terriers are predisposed to mast cell tumours, a cancer of the immune system. [cited 2013 Apr 11]. Conversely, some growths initially thought to be benign cysts or lipomas (benign tumours of fat), sometimes turn out to be mast cell tumours which may be malignant (Nuttall et al 2009). Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. You may have also noticed these characteristics: Is it all worth it? Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem, http://cal.vet.upenn.edu/projects/derm/Home/MASTCELL/canine/cmct.htm, http://www.vin.com/Members/Proceedings/Proceedings.plx?CID=bsava2010&PID=pr54247&O=VIN, One small tumour confined to the skin, no lymph node involvement, One small tumour confined to the skin with local or regional lymph node involvement, Multiple skin tumours or a large infiltrating tumour with or without regional lymph node involvement, Any tumour with distant metastases (spread of the tumour to other parts of the body). Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or a regular puppy diet. 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