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Common Health Ailments in Greyhounds

Kennel Butt
What is Kennel Butt?
Symptoms of Kennel Butt
Causes of Kennel Butt
Treatment of Kennel Butt
Preventing Kennel Butt
Corns
What are Corns in Greyhounds?
Symptoms of Corns
Causes of Corns
Treatment of Corns
Preventing Corns

My Pet Greyhound

Kennel Butt

There are certain health issues that are specific to greyhounds, one such issue is kennel butt. A condition that can affect racing greyhounds and retired racing greyhounds. In this article, we will discuss what kennel butt is, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

What is Kennel Butt?

Kennel butt, also known as pressure sores, is a condition that affects greyhounds who spend long periods of time lying down or sitting on hard surfaces such as concrete floors or metal grates. The condition is characterised by the formation of lesions or sores on the dog’s hindquarters, tail, and legs. The sores can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they can become infected.

Symptoms of Kennel Butt

The symptoms of kennel butt can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may cause minor hair loss or redness on the dog’s skin, while more severe cases can cause open sores, swelling, and bleeding. The affected area may also be warm to the touch and painful for the dog.

Causes of Kennel Butt

Kennel butt is caused by the constant pressure and friction that greyhounds experience when lying on hard surfaces. Greyhounds have very little body fat, and their skin is thin, making them more prone to pressure sores. Additionally, greyhounds have a low pain threshold, which means that they may not show signs of discomfort until the condition has progressed to a more severe stage.

Other factors that can contribute to the development of kennel butt include poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and poor hygiene. Greyhounds that are not fed a balanced diet or that do not get enough exercise may be more susceptible to the condition. Dogs that are kept in dirty or unsanitary conditions may also be more prone to developing kennel butt.

Treatment for Kennel Butt

The treatment for kennel butt will depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, simply providing the dog with a soft, padded surface to lie on can help to relieve the pressure and allow the sores to heal. Applying a topical ointment or cream can also help to soothe the affected area and promote healing.

In more severe cases, the dog may require antibiotics to treat any infections that have developed. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue and promote healing. It is important to note that the underlying cause of the condition, such as poor nutrition or lack of exercise, must also be addressed to prevent the recurrence of kennel butt.

Preventing Kennel Butt

Preventing kennel butt is essential to ensure the health and well-being of your greyhound. The following tips can help to prevent the condition from developing:

  • Provide your greyhound with a soft, padded surface to lie on, such as a dog bed or blanket.
  • Make sure that your greyhound gets enough exercise to prevent the development of pressure sores.
  • Feed your greyhound a balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients for good health.
  • Keep your greyhound’s living area clean and sanitary to prevent the development of infections.
  • Monitor your greyhound’s skin for any signs of redness, swelling, or sores, and seek veterinary care if you notice any changes.

Kennel butt is a condition that can affect greyhounds who spend long periods of time lying on hard surfaces. While the condition can be painful and uncomfortable for the dog, it can be prevented and treated with proper care and attention. By providing your greyhound with a soft, padded surface to lie on, feeding them.

Corns

Greyhounds are also prone to certain health issues that can be painful and uncomfortable. One such issue is corns, a condition that affects the paw pads of greyhounds. In this article, we will discuss what corns are, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options.

What are Corns in Greyhounds?

Corns, also known as digital hyperkeratosis, are thick, hard patches of skin that develop on the paw pads of greyhounds. They can be small and round or larger and irregularly shaped. Corns are typically found on the weight-bearing areas of the paw pads and can cause pain and discomfort for the dog.

Symptoms of Corns

The symptoms of corns can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may cause only slight discomfort, while more severe cases can cause limping and difficulty walking. Some common symptoms of corns in greyhounds include:

  • Thickened or raised areas of skin on the paw pads.
  • Patches of hardened skin that are discoloured (usually yellow or grey).
  • Limping or difficulty walking.
  • Excessive licking or chewing at the affected paw.
  • Pain or discomfort when the paw is touched or manipulated.

Causes of Corns

The exact cause of corns in greyhounds is not fully understood. However, there are several factors that are thought to contribute to their development. These include:

  • Genetics: Some greyhounds may be more predisposed to developing corns due to their genetics.
  • Weight: Greyhounds that are overweight may be more prone to developing corns due to the increased pressure on their paw pads.
  • Poor nutrition: Greyhounds that are not fed a balanced diet may be more prone to developing corns due to nutrient deficiencies.
  • Activity level: Greyhounds that participate in high-impact activities, such as racing or jumping, may be more prone to developing corns.

Treatment for Corns

The treatment for corns will depend on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, simply trimming the affected area of the paw pad and applying a topical ointment may be enough to relieve the dog’s discomfort. In more severe cases, more aggressive treatment may be necessary. Some treatment options include:

  • Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the corn with liquid nitrogen to destroy the affected tissue.
  • Surgery: In some cases, the affected area of the paw pad may need to be surgically removed to allow for proper healing.
  • Orthotics: Special pads or cushions may be added to the dog’s shoes to relieve pressure on the affected paw pad.

Preventing Corns

Preventing corns in greyhounds is essential to ensure the health and well-being of your dog. Some tips for preventing corns include:

  • Feeding your greyhound, a balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients for good paw health.
  • Keeping your greyhound at a healthy weight to prevent excessive pressure on the paw pads.
  • Providing your greyhound with appropriate footwear during high-impact activities.
  • Keeping your greyhound’s paw pads clean and dry to prevent infections.

Corns are a painful and uncomfortable condition that can affect greyhounds. While the exact cause of the condition is not fully understood, there are several factors that are thought to contribute to their development. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition, but prevention is key. By providing your greyhound with a healthy diet, appropriate footwear, and good hygiene practices, you can help to prevent the development of corns and keep your dog healthy and happy.