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Have you ever heard of a water puppy? No, it is not a character from a Disney movie, but rather a term used to describe a heartbreaking condition known as anasarca. This rare but life-threatening condition is most common in brachycephalic breeds such as Bulldogs, although it has been observed in other breeds as well. While the names "water puppy,” "walrus puppy," and “swimmer puppies” might seem whimsical and endearing, anasarca is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. Puppies born with anasarca are born with an abnormal and excessively dangerous accumulation of fluid, causing them to appear severely swollen.
Excessive fluid buildup can occur right under the skin or in various body cavities like the chest or abdomen. As a result, anasarca puppies are often much larger than their healthy littermates, which can lead to complications during birth. Early detection and veterinary intervention are essential for these affected puppies if they have any hope of survival. Anasarca can impact multiple puppies within a litter or even the entire litter, making it a devastating experience for both the mother and the breeder.
As a responsible pet owner, it's helpful to understand the intricacies of anasarca, from recognizing its symptoms to seeking the necessary veterinary care. While the thought of dealing with anasarca may seem overwhelming at first, rest assured that you are not alone on this journey. To help you navigate this difficult situation, we'll explore the dog breeds most susceptible to anasarca, its causes, signs, and treatment options. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion.
Dog Breeds Most Susceptible to Anasarca (Water Puppy Syndrome)
Anasarca, more commonly called water puppy syndrome, can theoretically affect any dog breed, but it is most observed in brachycephalic breeds. These breeds, characterized by their shortened snouts and flat faces, seem to have a higher predisposition to developing this condition. Some of the most frequently affected brachycephalic breeds include:
However, anasarca is not limited to just these breeds. The condition has also been reported in other dog breeds, such as Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, and even rarely in German Shepherds, Tervurens, and Australian Shepherds. It is important to note that while some breeds may be more susceptible to anasarca, any puppy can potentially be born as a water puppy, regardless of their breed.
Why and When Does Anasarca Occur?
Anasarca has been recognized for many years, yet as with many health conditions affecting newborn animals, there is a lack of definitive knowledge regarding its true causes, and much of what experts believe about it is speculative. The condition appears to develop in the later part of gestation; puppies can be born up to four or five times their normal weight, due to the excess fluid. One or all puppies in a litter may be affected.
Experts consider anasarca to be a congenital problem—meaning it exists at or before birth—but it is unclear whether it is always genetic. It does appear to show up more in certain breeds than others, suggesting a genetic component, although the mode of inheritance is unknown. In some breeds where the condition is rare, it is thought to be less likely to be inherited. The assumption is that if the genetic potential were there, breeders would see more cases of anasarca.
Some researchers believe that environmental factors, such as trauma from prolonged contractions if the puppy is in the birth canal too long, may play a role in the development of anasarca. Meanwhile, some breeders, whose dogs have produced anasarca puppies, suggest that a high-sodium diet may be the culprit, as they believe it causes the female to retain water. However, experts caution that there is still not enough scientific evidence to definitively prove the exact causes of this condition.
A Lack of Signs of Anasarca in Dogs
To further complicate matters, signs of anasarca in pregnant dogs are limited or seemingly non-existent in most cases. This, understandably, catches many breeders and veterinarians off guard. However, in observed cases of pregnant dogs carrying anasarca puppies, signs may include:
Additional weight gain by the female, possibly due to the extra fluid
A water ring around the female's teats in the later stages of pregnancy
Large, swollen, mammary glands
Listing or shifting of the puppies from one side to the other
Again, experts caution against reading too much into these observations, as there is no viable scientific data to substantiate these symptoms.
Puppies born with anasarca typically exhibit the following symptoms:
Severe swelling and bloating, with a rubber-like appearance to the skin
Distorted, swollen features
Difficulty breathing due to fluid accumulation around the lungs
Lethargy and weakness
Treatment and Prognosis for Water Puppies
Survival rates for puppies born with anasarca are low, and because of the abnormally large size of the puppies, a cesarean delivery is often necessary. Multiple anecdotal remedies exist, yet none are proven or reported in scientific literature. Although survival rates are low, some water puppies do survive provided they receive immediate veterinary treatment.
Treatment for anasarca puppies may include:
Elevating the puppy's head and extending the neck to clear the airway
Encouraging urination through stimulation
Administering diuretics like furosemide (Lasix) to help express excess fluid
Providing warmth and monitoring body temperature
Mildly affected puppies may take one to two hours to begin breathing normally, while moderately affected puppies can take up to four hours. Sadly, most severely affected anasarca puppies will not survive and are generally recommended for euthanasia to prevent suffering.
Protect Your Furry Family Member by Planning for Unexpected Conditions like Anasarca
Expecting your dog's puppies can be both exciting and thrilling, and as a responsible pet owner we want to be prepared for any potential health issues that may arise throughout each stage of their lives, from pregnancy and birth to puppyhood and adulthood. This includes having a plan in place for managing unexpected veterinary expenses, such as those related to rare conditions like anasarca.
Although dog insurance does not typically cover breeding-related claims or newborn puppies, it can provide valuable coverage for accidents, illnesses, and preventative care once your puppy is old enough to be enrolled (6 weeks). When choosing a pet insurance policy, look for one that covers hereditary conditions and breed-specific genetic disorders that may manifest later in your dog's life. Choose a pet insurance provider that offers comprehensive plans which can be especially important for breeds that are prone to certain health issues.
Anasarca is a heartbreaking situation no pet owner wants to face. While it's impossible to completely prepare for unforeseen health concerns like this, pet insurance can offer valuable financial security for a wide range of other unexpected medical needs your furry friend might encounter throughout their life.
Even the healthiest puppies can experience accidents or develop illnesses. From broken bones and swallowed objects to allergies and ear infections, unexpected veterinary expenses can quickly add up. Having a pet insurance plan in place early can help you manage these costs, allowing you to focus on your pet's recovery rather than financial worry.
What Does the Future Hold for Water Puppies?
Theoretically, surviving puppies should live an otherwise healthy, normal life. However, the reality is that many puppies with anasarca do not survive, with some being euthanized shortly after birth. As with most neonatal illnesses, there is little to no scientific documentation regarding the long-term effects of anasarca in puppies. This lack of scientific documentation regarding the long-term effects of anasarca on puppies who do survive highlights the need for further research into this rare but serious condition.
At the end of the day, anasarca, or water puppy syndrome, is a complex and challenging condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. And by gaining a better understanding of the long-term health implications for puppies who survive anasarca, veterinarians and pet owners can work together to develop more targeted care plans and support systems. So, by working together as a community, we can continue to improve the lives of dogs affected by anasarca and other congenital disorders, while also pushing for more research and resources to support these dogs with special needs and their families.