FURTHER COMMENTS ON CHOICE OF EXOTIC DOG BREEDS AS PETS

Over the last few weeks, this column has been advising on various aspects of acquiring dogs, breeds of which had been developed in climes very dissimilar to the environment in the tropics. We have also commented on breeders’ manipulation of the physiology and anatomy of dogs – creating “Designer Breeds”, whose longevity and survival will depend on great efforts by the caregiver and the veterinarian.
Almost six years ago, my colleague Dr. Ozaye Dodson advised on this topic of bringing into Guyana breeds that suffer because of our geography and climate, and which may not be very conducive to the wellbeing of these companion animals.
Dr. Dodson has kindly provided both the text of reportage associated with this subject matter as well as the permission to share with the public, via this column, the salient and relevant aspects of his documentation, which, in effect, is an endorsement of available scientific knowledge and just plain common sense.
Dr. Dodson expressed his concern that many local dog owners are importing exotic breeds that are native to different climatic conditions and which suffer in Guyana’s tropical environment. Examples are the Husky and Akita breeds. The text that follows reflects Dr. Dodson’s valid concerns.
These dogs are sometimes sold for as much as $120,000. These breeds are more prone to developing heart-related complications and skin problems, among other ailments, when they are brought to tropical Guyana, and yet are being sold for as much as G$120,000, and more.
The Husky’s history goes back to Siberia, Russia. That region has short summers and extremely long cold winters. The Huskies have thick coats to keep them warm. It is the same for the ‘Akitas’ whose appearance indicates adaptation to cold weather since they have very thick coats and are considered among the top 20 dogs best suited for cold climates. Therefore, one could imagine the experience these two popular breeds have in Guyana, which has a warm and tropical climate all year round.
On many occasions, these breeds enter Guyana through legitimate processes, with importers following the various procedures established by the Ministry of Agriculture. As such, by no means can the importation be deterred as long as the animals come with their veterinary health certificates and are from countries considered safe. However, some dogs are smuggled into Guyana through the porous Brazilian border and elsewhere. The Husky and Akita breeds are not ideal for Guyana and as a result in many cases, the dogs do suffer from arthritis, heat stress, and heat stroke.
Moreover, these two breeds (Siberian Husky and Akita) are more prone to cardio problems and dermatological ailments. It is not easy for these animals, with their thick coats, to rid their bodies of heat. There will be some amount of heat or caloric temperature produced from the animal’s metabolic processes. Since any residual sweat glands in these animals are few and tend to be in the lower parts of the body, heat reduction via transpiration is not very functional. In addition, if such animals are heavily furred, they may find it difficult to get rid of the heat, especially in these kinds of climatic conditions. As a result, these dogs may pant a lot to get rid of the internal heat. This in and of itself creates a stress situation causing the animal to exhibit signs of irritability.
In addition, as a compensatory mechanism, the blood vessels (capillaries) in their nostrils dilate – resulting in ruptured capillaries and the consequent nose bleeding.
If there is extreme heat, the dogs can easily suffer from dehydration which could lead to kidney problems.
If the animals suffer from Heat Stroke, they can die.
If there is damage to certain brain centres, for example, damage to the brain centre associated with locomotion (limb movement), paralysis can be a consequence.
Relative to the lifespan of these breeds it has been observed that in temperate countries, the Husky and Akita can live for as long as 12-15 years. However, in a tropical environment, longevity is much reduced.
What can the caregiver do to increase the animal’s life span? It is advised that the Husky/Akita and all thick-coated breeds must be made more comfortable, not lastly by keeping them in a heavily ventilated and cool environment. One can always have cold (iced) water available for the animal’s consumption.
Finally, much more needs to be done to have owners educated about exotic dog breeds, especially the breeds of choice for the tropics.
Again, the “Pet Care” column thanks Dr. Dodson for his wise and pertinent contributions to this very important issue of companion animal choice.