Are Scottish terriers Dying to soon? Best practices For A Long Healthy Life
- Aug 8
- 7 min read
Scottish Terriers have long been a beloved breed known for their spirited personality and distinctive appearance.
If you've ever lost a Scottish Terrier before, you're not alone.
Conversations in online forums, on social media, and among families looking for a new puppy have brought attention to concerns about health issues impacting this charming breed, leading to very early deaths.
A concerning trend is beginning to surface.
I've frequently heard from online conversations and families interested in buying a new puppy from us that Scottish Terriers are now often dying as young as four years old.
So understanding these health conditions, along with effective dietary and care strategies, can be pivotal for keeping your Scottie healthy and happy.
Trending Health Conditions in Scottish Terriers
Scottish Terriers are predisposed to several health issues that can significantly shorten their lifespan. One of the most concerning conditions is cancer, particularly bladder cancer, which has been reported frequently in this breed. Scottish Terriers have a 20 times higher risk of developing bladder cancer, i.e. TCC, than dogs in other breeds. In North American veterinary teaching hospitals, the prevalence of dogs diagnosed with the disease has increased by more than 600% between l975 and 1995! The increase in bladder cancer cases may be linked to the growing number of families chemically treating their lawns over time.
In 1991, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) released the results of a case/control study that identified an increased risk of malignant lymphoma in pet dogs exposed to the commonly used phenoxy herbicide, 2,4-D, found in lawns and gardens. This study, which included over 1,000 dogs, found that there was more than a twofold increase in the risk of lymphoma in dogs exposed to lawns treated with this herbicide four or more times a year, whether by the homeowner or a commercial service. A subsequent study showed that dogs exposed to lawns treated with 2,4-D absorb sufficient amounts of the chemical to excrete it in their urine for several days following the treatment.
Therefore, it is essential to keep your Scottish Terrier off chemically treated lawns to lower the risk of TCC. See herbicide exposure in Scottish Terriers
Another common health issue is von Willebrand disease, a genetic blood disorder that affects a dog’s ability to clot. Though it may not be immediately life-threatening, it can lead to complications during surgery or after traumatic injuries. So when purchasing a new puppy make sure the breeder does the necessary testing to ensure you get a healthy puppy.
Additionally, hip dysplasia and patellar luxation are prevalent in Scottish Terriers. These conditions do not only cause pain and mobility issues but can also lead to surgeries that carry risks of complications.
Vaccinations Is A Big Culprit
Diseases Associated with Over-Vaccination in Pets
Several diseases can develop as a result of over-vaccination. Some pets have experienced neurological conditions, immune deficiencies, and more after being vaccinated. A few of these diseases include:
Uterine infections
Death of tissues
Degeneration (atrophy) of lymphoid tissue
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
Lameness or stilted gait due to inflammation, muscle disorders, and bone loss in the limbs
Increased allergies in the ears and eyes
Hormonal issues
Adverse reactions to the rabies vaccination can include
skin lesions;
allergic responses;
vomiting and diarrhea;
muzzle edema;
autoimmune diseases affecting the thyroid, joints, blood, eyes, skin, kidney, liver, bowel and central nervous system;
anaphylactic shock;
aggression; AKA dogs attacking humans
seizures;
epilepsy;
and fibrosarcomas at injection sites.
Make sure your veterinarian is giving the correct rabies shot to your Scottie.
Formerly, the rabies vaccine had ingredients that included mercury in the vaccinations. Now there are rabies vaccines, without that ingredient, which is called thimerosal!
made by Boehringer Ingelheim (who bought Merial) and they are called IMRAB 1 TF or IMRAB 3 TF. The TF stands for (thimerosal-free formulation). The difference between the two vaccines is that one is labeled for 1 year protection and the other is for 3 years.
Restricting Vaccinations to What is Necessary and Beneficial Similar to the rabies vaccine, veterinarians often follow "routine" schedules for re-vaccinating dogs. However, immunity levels can vary between individual dogs and breeds. Increasingly, health-conscious dog owners are requesting "titer" tests to determine the level of immunity (antibodies) their dog has against a particular disease. If the test results show adequate protection, no vaccine or "booster" is required.
Leptospirosis is not a routine vaccination for Scottish Terriers. Many general veterinarians may not be aware of this, but most knowledgeable Scottish Terrier breeders avoid administering leptospirosis vaccines to their dogs due to known adverse reactions. These shots should only be given to Scotties living in wet, swampy, or rural areas where the risk of the disease is high due to the presence of farm animals or wildlife. Your county can provide information on potential leptospirosis outbreaks in your area.
Read this study with findings of a longer immunity than previously thought.
The best option is to explore natural options for disease prevention and treatment. It's advisable to depend on holistic therapies to maintain your Scottish Terrier's health and potentially prolong their lifespan.
The Dangers of Flea Medications
On September 20, 2018, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning that the following flea and tick medications have caused adverse events in dogs and cats such as muscle tremors, ataxia and seizures:
Bravecto (fluralaner) tablets for dogs;Bravecto (fluralaner) topical solution for cats and dogs
Nexgard (afoxalaner) tablets for dogs
Simparica (sarolaner) and Simparica Trio (sarolaner/moxidectin/pyrantel) tablets for dogs.
All of these medications are in the isoxazoline class of compounds. Isoxazoline is a parasiticide.
The FDA worked with manufacturers of isoxazoline products to include new label information to highlight neurologic events because these events were seen consistently across the isoxazoline class of products.
Two additional drugs that are also in the isoxazoline class had recently received FDA approval and carry the warning on their labels:
Credelio (lotilaner) tablets for dogs
Revolution Plus (selamectin and sarolaner topical solution) for dogs and cats.
Isoxazoline class flea and tick medications should not be confused with spinosads – a natural substance made by a soil bacterium that can be toxic to insects – that is also for treatment or prevention of fleas.
Two of the most well-known spinosad products are
Trifexis
Comfortis.
Dogs that are epileptic or prone to seizures should not be given spinosad.
Its best to use all natural flea treatments for your Scottish Terrier but if this isn't an option, you may want to stay away from the ingestible treatments and stick with a topical treatment such as frontline plus.
Some things to consider....... Natural remedies include
A lemon bath
Apple Cider Vinegar Spray
Rosemary Dip
Herbal Flea Collar
Coconut Oil Rub
Diatomaceous Earth Powder
Herbal Flea Spray
Cedarwood and Neem oils – kills eggs, larvae, and adult fleas
A Dawn Dishsoap bath – kills adult fleas and larvae
Rosemary essential oil – repels adult fleas
Cedarwood collars
Some families have had great success with:
Applying brewers yeast around bedding and spreading food grade diatomaceous earth on the property and bedding and by applying a mixture of oils to their Scotties.
Key ingredients for an effective dog spray is: eucalyptus oil, oil of oregano, clove oil, peppermint oil, thyme oil, rosemary oil, lavender oil (optional)
Human factors, including stress and weight management, also play a significant role in a Scottish Terrier's overall health. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight with the right type of food can reduce the risk of many of these health problems.
The Best Food for Scottish Terriers
Providing the right nutrition is key to promoting a longer, healthier life for your Scottish Terrier. High-quality dog food that is rich in protein but low in fillers contributes significantly to their overall well-being. Look for foods that list whole meats as the primary ingredient, or going to a company that provides raw meat and steering clear of artificial additives or preservatives is your best bet. We highly recommend WE FEED RAW if your concerned with the overall health and life span of your Scottish Terrier.
You can receive 30% off your first box with promo code SCHULTES30
Care Strategies for Scottish Terriers
Beyond diet, several care strategies can help extend the life of your Scottish Terrier. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of health issues. Blood tests can identify conditions like von Willebrand disease before they become more serious, so routine health screenings are advisable.
Exercise is another critical component. Scottish Terriers require moderate exercise to maintain a healthy weight and overall fitness. Daily walks and playtime can keep them active and engaged; however, be cautious not to overstrain them, especially in extreme weather.
Mental stimulation is equally important. These intelligent dogs thrive when engaged in interactive activities such as puzzle toys or obedience training. Not only does this keep their minds sharp, but it can also deepen the bond between you and your furry friend.
A regular grooming schedule is also essential, as Scottish Terriers have a distinctive coat that requires consistent upkeep. Proper grooming can prevent skin infections and other issues that may arise from neglect.
Keeping Your Scottish Terrier Healthy
Maintaining the overall health of your Scottish Terrier is a holistic endeavor that encompasses diet, exercise, regular vet visits, and mental enrichment. Consider holistic treatments like supplements, which can support your dog’s health, particularly as they age.
We highly recommend Nuvet Vitamins. Go check out the ingredients list and you will see why.
Additionally, be mindful of your dog’s mental health. Changes in the household, travel, and new family members can stress a dog. Creating a stable environment helps your furry friend feel secure, which can positively impact their overall health.
Finally, be attentive to any signs of illness or discomfort. Early detection of symptoms can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes. Be vigilant and don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian if anything seems amiss.
Conclusion
The conversation surrounding trending health conditions in Scottish Terriers is an essential one, especially for dedicated owners who want their pets to live long and fulfilling lives. By understanding the most common health challenges associated with this breed and implementing effective diet and care strategies, you can make a substantial difference in your Scottish Terrier's health.
A high-quality diet, sufficient exercise, and mental stimulation can greatly enhance your dog’s life quality. Remember, being proactive about your dog’s health can equip you with the knowledge to provide them with a better quality of life, extending those joyful years of companionship.
Let’s commit to better health for our Scottish Terriers so that they can thrive for as long as possible, keeping their spirited personality alive and the tail-wagging joy intact.
