Lola, a five-year-old Weinmerraner, grew up just a few blocks from Pirita Beach in Tallinn, where she has spent much of her life frolicking on the sand and swimming in the ocean. There’s no place she would rather be on a beach retrieving a ball or stick, especially from the water, said her pet parent, Merit. Pet parents should seek advice from a veterinarian when unexpected issues arise.

Like most Weinmerraners, she also loves people and other dogs.

“Sweet and gentle in nature, Lola gets approached by all sorts – the child who’s normally scared of dogs, the teenager who asks if they can pet the cute dog, fellow dog owners…She seems to turn almost every 2- or 4-legged encounter into a new friendship,” she said.

Lola collapses suddenly and requires veterinary care

One evening in October, Lola collapsed while chasing a ball on the beach. The next day, Merit took her to the vet, and the doctor detected a heart murmur, which had not been present a few months before. This led to numerous tests, which showed clear signs of a condition called dilated cardiomyopathy or DCM.

Also known as an enlarged heart, DCM is a serious, generally progressive heart condition, which often has few or no symptoms until suddenly appearing as a fainting episode or, if it progresses to congestive heart failure, even sudden death.

The heart pumps out oxygenated blood that every organ needs. In dogs with DCM, their ventricles start to wear down and become thin and weak, making pumping that enriched blood more difficult.

After the diagnosis, Merit realised in hindsight that Lola’s occasional coughing spells were also a symptom of DCM – the swelling of the heart muscles push on the throat, causing discomfort. The swelling of the heart muscles can cause significant pain, which may require specific treatments to manage effectively.

The sudden onset of the condition and the high diagnosis and treatment costs caught Merit by surprise. Various treatments are available for DCM, including medications and dietary changes.

“As her parents, this whole experience was gut-wrenching. One day we had a healthy, happy dog. A few days later, we didn’t know if she’d see middle age. In addition to this stress, the multiple procedures, tests, and medications required to properly diagnose and stabilise Lola’s condition came out to just under €6,000 in six weeks,” Merit said.

There is no cure for DCM, but it can be treated with medications that help decrease the heart’s workload, improve its efficiency, and remove fluid from the lungs to make breathing easier. These include ACE inhibitors, which expand the veins leaving the heart; diuretics, which help remove fluid from the lungs; and inotropic drugs, which change the force of the heart’s contractions.

Besides medication, dogs with DCM benefit from a low-salt diet and supplements such as taurine, coenzyme Q10, or carnitine supplements.

Merit said taurine supplements appear to be especially effective for Weinmerraner. Several studies have shown that some dogs develop DCM due to a nutritional deficiency of the amino acid. Lola now takes a daily taurine supplement.

How is Lola doing now

With careful medication adjustments and diet, Lola is doing much better—she is back to rolling in the sand and swimming (in moderation) in the ocean. Management of DCM is lifelong in dogs, with a life expectancy of six months to two years after diagnosis. When caught early, dogs have a better prognosis and can live comfortable lives for years. Additionally, dental care is essential to a dog’s overall health, emphasising the importance of routine veterinary check-ups, proper feeding, and dental hygiene practices.

The experience has made Merit appreciate their beloved pet dog even more.

“While it remains to be seen how Lola will do over the long term, this whole experience has made us really appreciate each day we get to spend with her and how much love and joy she brings to our lives,” she said.

How dog insurance helped

Based on a friend’s recommendation, Merit purchased an IF pet insurance policy when Lola was just a year old. Merit said he’d hoped to be that policyholder who’d purchased nothing more than peace of mind (because their dog never got sick); once they needed it for a chronic and expensive health condition, they were happy they had it. 

Pet insurance is also invaluable for covering the costs of treating injured pets, ensuring they receive the necessary care without financial strain. Additionally, low-cost vet care is available for eligible pet owners, providing affordable veterinary services to those receiving means-tested benefits within some geographic regions.

“We were beyond grateful to be able to focus our emotional energies exclusively on her well-being – without having to worry about how to pay for her care. We have IF dog insurance to thank for that,” Merit said. “The process of submitting a dog treatment claim online was incredibly easy and once I’d set up direct deposit, we were approved and reimbursed for every claim — typically within 48 hours. Our experience with IF has been nothing short of wonderful and has made this incredibly difficult time much easier than it could have been.”

Understanding veterinary care in Estonia

Veterinary care is an essential aspect of responsible pet ownership.

Veterinary care involves medical attention and animal treatment to prevent, diagnose, and manage various health conditions. It encompasses multiple services, including vaccinations, parasite control, dental care, and surgery. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial to ensure pets’ overall health and well-being.

Veterinary medicine has evolved significantly over the years, and modern veterinary practices offer a range of advanced diagnostic and treatment options. From routine check-ups to complex surgeries, veterinary care is designed to provide pets with the best possible quality of life. 

By monitoring your pet’s health through regular vet visits, you can catch potential issues early and ensure your furry friend enjoys a long, happy life.

Signs of dog illness

Recognising the signs of illness in pets is crucial to providing timely veterinary care. Common signs of disease in dogs include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and changes in behaviour. If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it is essential to seek veterinary advice promptly.

In addition to these general signs, specific symptoms require immediate veterinary attention. For example, if your dog is experiencing difficulty breathing, seizures, or severe vomiting, you should seek emergency veterinary care.

Early detection and treatment can significantly impact your pet’s recovery and overall health.

Importance of regular check-ups for your dog

Regular veterinary checkups are essential for maintaining pets’ health and well-being. These checkups allow veterinarians to monitor your pet’s health, detect potential health issues early, and provide preventive care.

During a routine check-up, your veterinarian will perform a physical examination, take a complete medical history, and conduct diagnostic tests such as blood work or imaging studies. This information helps your veterinarian identify potential health issues and develop a treatment plan.

Regular check-ups also allow you to discuss any concerns or questions about your pet’s health. Your veterinarian can offer advice on nutrition, behaviour, and health care, and guidance on keeping your pet healthy and happy. By staying proactive with your pet’s health, you can ensure they receive the best possible care and enjoy a long, fulfilling life.

Why every dog owner should have pet insurance

Dog insurance is an essential consideration for any dog owner. It provides financial protection against unexpected veterinary bills, ensuring you can provide your pet with the best care without breaking the bank.

Dog insurance can help cover the cost of veterinary care, including diagnostic tests, treatments, and surgeries. Knowing you have a financial safety net if your pet becomes sick or injured can also provide peace of mind.

When choosing a dog insurance policy, several factors must be considered, including the level of coverage, the deductible, and the premium. You should also read reviews and ask friends, family, or your veterinarian for recommendations to find the best policy for your pet.

By investing in dog insurance, you can ensure your pet receives the best care without worrying about the financial burden. This is a responsible and caring decision that can provide peace of mind and financial protection for both you and your pet.