Canine Gout - Does Your Dog Have Gout?

A rare form of gout occurs in dogs called calcium gout (ascalcium circumscripta) It is characterized by leakage of a chalky white substance the dog's paws or from a recent surgical incision. There may also be the appearance of lesions on the paws, particularly on the larger breeds.

Signs that your dog may have canine gout or bladder stones related to gout include:

Canine Gout can appear as lesions and ulcerations and can also be related to diabetes and kidney disease in animals. There may also be a genetic factor. Other signs include:

• Lumps and bleeding in the paw or toe area


• Chalky white substance oozing out of lesions


• Bloody urine


• Frequent urination in small amounts


• Gritty urine


• Lumps or cysts on the neck


• Depression

Breeds susceptible to gout:

Canine gout appears in mainly large breeds of dogs such as:

Dalmatians:

A large percentage of Dalmatians are unable to convert uric acid into allantoin. The Dalmatian liver cells cannot absorb uric acid hence they cannot urinate it out, leading to urate stone formations which are then uric acid bladder stones.
This problem affects more male dalmatians than females have stone problems due to their extra urethral additions.

The average age of a Gout affected Dalmatian is around the 4.5 year old dog. Keep your Dalmatian off Vitamin B supplements as they are high in purine formation, and brewers yeast products. It is also advised to avoid foods containing vitamin C and vitamin C supplements, to prevent an over production of acid bladder stone formation.

German Shepherds:

In German Shepherds, there appears to be a link between gout and hip dysplasia, which is a common occurrence in German Shepherds. Other breeds susceptible to canine gout include:

• Irish Wolfhounds


• English Pointers


• Rottweilers


• Labrador retrievers

Canine gout is most commonly found in the hind paws, but can also appear on the front paws, toes, neck, and tongue.

Treatments:

Treatment involves a diet that supports the liver, combined with medication, such as colchicine developed just for canines. The human form of this drug can prove to be fatal if administered to a dog. Your veterinarian is well trained in the difference between the two. Therefore, seeking your vet's advice is an essential part of keeping your pet healthy.

The use of medications to decrease the calcified deposits is slow to heal. However, surgical removal of the lesion has shown to make for a speedy recovery, and the lesion does not recur. The lesions have a granular type appearance, with variations in size of fibrous tissue surrounding the lesion.

Another medication, such as allopurinol is also a commonly prescribed treatment for canine gout. Side effects of allopurinol in dogs include nausea, cramping, diarrhea, and general upset stomach. Other treatments involve the utilization of charcoal adsorbent material (Kremezin ) to help metabolism problems.

Apple cider Vinegar:

Adding apple cider vinegar to the dog's food and water supply aids in alleviating the symptoms of canine out over time, as well as helping to lower the dog's pH levels.

Emu Oil:

Emu oil from Australia has shown evidence of reducing the swelling associated with canine gout. Although this is not proven, it is best to check with your dog's veterinarian before applying this remedy.

Diet:

A diet low in purines, as well as whole grain cereals without yeast should be included in your dog's diet. Other foods include a fatty acid diet with raw egg yolks added is beneficial to your dog if he has gout. Dairy product, such as milk, eggs, cheese, butter, and fruits will help to prevent future gout attacks.

If your dog is showing signs or symptoms of canine gout, contact your veterinarian for proper testing and diagnosis.

by Barb Hicks, RN