are Guide Dogs more likely to have health problems?

Sun, Dec 27, 2009

I’m curious if anyone can find any articles or websites that say if guide dogs are more likely to develop health problems like cancer because of their tasks that they have to perform.
Well i was thinking on the lines of having health problems because of stress??

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4 Responses to “are Guide Dogs more likely to have health problems?”

♫♪ Nekkid Bootie ♪♫ Says:
27. December 2009 at 04:06
unless their person works with asbestos or radioactive materials on a daily basis, the dog is no more prone to health problems than any other dog.

Dogs were bred to work.. if anything, they are probably in better health than your average housepet because they are out working with their human, and being mentally challenged on a daily basis.
squibbis Says:
27. December 2009 at 04:58
Actually guide dogs have less problems because they get a lot more exercise. They tend to outlive most other dogs of the same breed.
rescue member Says:
27. December 2009 at 05:00
Why would they have more health problems? Cancer isn’t contageous, neither are most of the health issues that people who need guide dogs have.

The answer is no.
Kirsten R Says:
27. December 2009 at 05:49
Guide dogs are bred and selected for health criteria and temperament. They are heavily health tested for diseases that would shorten their working lives, such as hip or elbow displasia, thyroid issues, vision or hearing issues, genetic disease such as VW, cardiac screening, and so on.

They are selected for their ability to tolerate both physical and mental stress. They are far healthier than the average pet and typically receive semi-annual maintenance veterinary exams instead of just annual ones.

If a guide dog started showing signs of stress, physical or mental, he would be retired to a pet home.

Really they are quite a lot like athletes. They start out very healthy, eat well and are well cared for, and get lots of daily exercise. I’d worry more about SAR dogs who work in dangerous situations. Several dogs who worked the Twin Towers disaster died earlier than expected or were retired due to health issues.

Good Dog Care

are Guide Dogs more likely to have health problems?

4 Responses to “are Guide Dogs more likely to have health problems?”

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