Five reasons to get pet insurance for Shih Tzus
These adorable little pooches, with a name that makes you sound like you're sneezing, are really popular pets. Lively, happy and incredibly friendly, they’re a joy to have around. However, as with any dog breed, they come with their own set of potential health issues – each a reason why it’s smart to get pet insurance for Shih Tzus.
Here are four medical issues that often affect Shih Tzus.
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)
Covered by insurance!
Short-headed (brachycephalic) breeds are notorious for having breathing problems – and Shih Tzus are no exception. Their upper airways are too narrow, so it’s hard for them to breathe. Dogs with BOAS sometimes have problems regulating their body temperature, which means walks in hot weather can be dangerous. The breathing difficulties can also add strain to their heart and lungs. Surgery can help, with soft palate resection costing around $500 to $1,500, and a stenotic nares resection $200 to $1,000.
Eye issues
Covered by insurance!
Shih Tzus have incredibly cute eyes, but unfortunately ones that are vulnerable to health issues. Glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts are all common problems that can severely affect their vision. The last of these can be treated with surgery, but it can be expensive – around $1,500 to $5,000 per eye.
Hip dysplasia
Covered by insurance!
Hip dysplasia, where a dog’s bones and joints don’t align correctly, is often associated with much bigger dogs like German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers. But these wee doggies are also susceptible to the condition, which is generally thought to be genetic and can lead to arthritis. To get arthritis treated, x-rays will cost up to $1,000, medication is about $2,000 per year, and surgery – if required is up to $7,500 per joint.
Hypothyroidism
Covered by insurance!
Hypothyroidism is a hormonal disease that affects a lot of Shih Tzus. Attacking the thyroid gland, it reduces levels of thyroxine, a hormone that controls dogs’ metabolism. It can cause symptoms like hair loss, changes in skin colour, lethargy, and weight gain. It can make your dog pretty miserable, so you should get it treated. You’re looking at $50-$150 for test and then around $20-$50 per month for long term medication – which could be covered by your pet insurance.
Cushing’s Disease
Covered by insurance!
This disease is caused by a tumour on either one of two important glands at the base of the brain, leading to the creation of too much of the stress hormone cortisol. The cost of diagnosis often depends on a dog’s symptoms and how quickly a vet realises their cause, but you could easily spend $500-$1,500. If medication is enough to treat the condition, you’re looking at $50-$200 per month, plus occasional bills for blood tests. Surgeries like adrenalectomy or hypophysectomy are available but, due to their specialized nature, you’re looking at $2,500-$10,000.
