Conventional Medications for DCM
We treat Dobys with DCM to prevent the weakened heart from causing episodes of fainting and arrhythmia. Some of the drugs we use are similar to those used by humans: beta blockers (such as atenolol), diuretics (such as Lasix), and ACE inhibitors (such as enalapril). One of the newer cardiac medications, pimobendan, which is similar to digoxin, is also used for canine DCM.
Holistic Medications for DCM
Just as conventional medications benefit the heart, supplements, herbs, and homeopathic medication benefit the heart. For example, protein supplements of taurine and carnitine help strengthen the heart fibers and mitochondria where energy is produced. CoQ10 also benefits mitochondria. Many dog breeds benefit from taurine and carnitine, inducing Doberman Pinchers. one of the breeds known to have a genetic predisposition to low levels of cardiac carnitine.
Dobys also benefit from Omega 3 fatty acids from fish or freshly ground flax seed because they help prevent irritated heart cells from developing abnormal inflammation. Inflammation releases cell-damaging free radicals and weak cardiac cells are particularly vulnerable to damage. It’s ideal when CoQ10 and Omega 3s are given together because CoQ10 is absorbed more readily when given with oils in fish or flax.
Homeopathic medications, such as hawthorn, strengthen the heart and have the benefit of never interfering with any of the other medications a pet receives. We’re often concerned with the effect one medication has on another especially with medications as powerful as those used for heart disease. If we’re not careful, we havoc with cell metabolism in our effort to maintain cardiac strength. Homeopathic medications can be relied upon to always have a positive effect.
Although DCM is usually a fatal disease for Dobys, they lead a healthier, longer life when given the right conventional and holistic medications.
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