Labrador Retriever Common Health Problems and Costs

Labrador Retriever Common Health Problems, and Costs

Even though Labrador retrievers are well-known around the globe for being strong dogs no matter the present season, it is not uncommon for them to run into health issues every now and then due to one or more reasons. Just as any other pet, Labrador retrievers can become victims of several illnesses over the course of a lifetime. Nevertheless, there are five health matters, in particular, that are more common than others. Below is a list that elaborates on these typical health issues for you to be well-prepared in the case your beloved furry friend is confronted by one of them.

Obesity

It is typical for some people to overfeed their Labrador retrievers. It certainly can be challenging to say ‘no’ to a cute dog that frequently craves snacks. In the long turn, this can result in a serious health situation for a Labrador retriever. Even though food bags have detailed information that reflects the amount that should be served to a dog on a daily basis, it is imperative to ask a veterinarian what is the adequate food amount intake and food brand for the dog in question. Even if they are the same breed, dogs are not created equal. Dogs have different diet needs.

Contrary to popular belief, not every dog food brand is alike in the aspect of nutrition. Once you are aware of the proper intake, a good dog food bag or a box of cans might run you between $20.00 and $40.00. No matter the price, we could all agree that a Labrador retriever is worth the best of the best.

Cataracts

As a Labrador retriever gets older, he or she can become a victim of cataracts. This eye problem results in the clouding of the eye due to the breakdown of proteins and fibers. It can affect one eye or both eyes. It tends to become more severe with age, leading to blindness if not treated.

Cataract eye surgery tends to be the go-to option for veterinarians to solve this health matter. The cost of this type of surgery varies depending on the severity and if one eye or both eyes are going to be treated. On average, cataract eye surgery can run a pet owner between $2,000.00 and $4,000.00.

The next day after surgery, most dogs will have some vision restored. It will take about two weeks for dogs that have undergone this surgery to see clearly.

Allergies

There are different environmental elements that can cause your furry friend to become a victim of allergies. Some of the symptoms include itchiness, hives, sneezing, swelling of the face, inflamed skin, among others. If allergies are left untreated, they can become more severe, hence why veterinarians recommend treatment at the first sign of them.

To treat allergies, veterinarians resort to prescribed medication. Depending on the allergy, medication can cost anywhere between $20.00 and $150.00. Follow-up is extremely important, even if allergies are diminishing or have diminished completely, because they can easily return if a plan is not implemented to place a halt to their possible reoccurrence.

Cancer

Most common signs that indicate that your dog might be suffering from cancer are changes in appetite, sudden weight loss, non-healing of sores or wounds, abdominal swelling, abnormal discharge, abnormal odors, and bumps or lumps underneath the skin.

There are different cancers that can become apparent, no matter the age of the dog. Cancer in Labrador retrievers is treated using several methods, including immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical treatment, and/or oral medication. The average cancer treatment process can cost $10,000.00 or more.

Soft Joints

This is an inflammatory health matter that happens when an affected cartilage separates from the present underlying bone. It is common for this matter to become apparent on the shoulder joint, but the knee, hip, and/or elbow can also be affected. Some of the common symptoms of soft joints are swelling of joints, lameness, and an abnormal walk.

Surgical removal of the affected cartilage tends to be the best option to solve this matter, as it can relieve the inflammation and pain, promoting the remodeling of joint surface, and minimizing the possibility of acquiring degenerative joint disease. To solve soft joints in a Labrador retriever, you can expect to spend anywhere between $2,000.00 and $4,000.00.

Taking Note on Changes

Analyzing a Labrador retriever’s physical and emotional changes should be conducted frequently to note any of the aforementioned health problem symptoms early on. Treating these common conditions can be quite expensive, which is why it is highly recommended to obtain pet health insurance. It is a very affordable option, one that can save you thousands upon thousands of dollars in the long run.