15 Things of Beagle Illness You Should Never Ignore

Lafora is an inherited genetic defect responsible for progressive epilepsy. This means that the condition becomes more obvious as one ages. The epileptic seizures also become stronger and occur more frequently. A mutation in the NHLRC1 gene (also called EPM2B) is responsible for neurotoxic inclusions (so-called Lafora bodies) that are stored in the brain and nervous system. However, these inclusions are also found in other organs.

Symptoms of Lafora:

blindness / poor vision

convulsions

muscle tremors

twitching (especially head area)

aggressive behavior/susceptibility to stress

incontinence (as the course progresses)

frequent blinking

dementia

falling over / lying down

coordination disorders

External visual or auditory stimuli (flashing light, fast movement, loud noise, etc.) can trigger a seizure. The beagle remains fully conscious.

In addition to the symptoms listed, which speak for Lafora disease, a genetic test can reliably substantiate the diagnosis. For this purpose, an EDTA blood sample is examined. In addition to the Beagle, Dachshunds and Basset Hounds are also affected by Lafora disease. However, the disease is often more serious in the beagle.

The disease often does not appear until the age of 6 or 7 and can shorten life expectancy. Unfortunately, Lafora cannot be cured. Dogs' quality of life sometimes deteriorates rapidly after the first symptoms appear. Only dogs that have received the mutated gene from both parents become ill. A dog with only one mutated gene remains symptom-free but can pass on the disease.

Poisoning can develop very slowly. For example, by ingesting dangerous substances over a longer period of time. This can also be unsuitable food (see beagle nutrition).

While some toxins have an immediate effect, others have a delayed onset of symptoms. This is the case, for example, with rat poison, which unfortunately is also often used with the dreaded poison baits. Symptoms of poisoning can even appear days after ingestion.

The following symptoms can, but do not necessarily have to indicate poisoning. Other diseases are also possible with these signs. However, since every second counts when your Beagle has eaten something dangerous, you should always consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect something. Incidentally, many symptoms occur in combination.

Signs of poisoning:

blood in the feces;

diarrhea;

vomit;

strong salivation;

blood or foam in the vomit;

blood in the urine;

tremble;

under temperature;

cramps;

"cat hump";

narrowed or greatly dilated pupils;

unconsciousness;

circulatory problems (white gums/oral mucosa!);

paralysis;

strong restlessness;

very weak condition;

apathy;

breathing problems;

very irregular heartbeat.

But not only poisonous baits pose a danger for the dog. There are many substances in the household that could be dangerous for the beagle. These include, for example, cleaning agents, fertilizers, medicines, cigarettes, alcohol, unsuitable food, and much more.

Keep calm and don't panic.

Take the dog immediately (!) to an animal hospital or to the veterinarian.

Don't induce vomiting.

Do not put a muzzle loop on your beagle.

If possible, scoop up some of the substance that was ingested/eaten (wear gloves or scoop up like stool!)

Collected faeces, urine, or vomit can also provide information about the poison in the veterinary laboratory.

If possible, wrap the beagle in a blanket and keep him warm in transit.

If the poison was absorbed by the dog via the gastrointestinal tract, charcoal tablets can be administered as a first aid measure (ask the veterinarian about the dosage well before an emergency occurs).