Allergies (Skin problems)

Recently the Glen of Imaal Terrier seems to have become “known” for having allergies. One question must be asked about this:-where have these allergies come from? The Glen of Imaal always used to have few allergies and they were easily sorted whenever they appeared.

Glens used to live in kennels, be fed basic food and have basic lives. They were bred for this and thrived as this. Glens have moved indoors as beloved house pets and have started to be treated as modern ideas suggest. Could this be the cause of their allergies? In view of this do consider the following before rushing off to the vet:-

My Glen is scratching. Is it because of a very thick coat (and undercoat) and feels uncomfortable in the centrally heated house?

My Glen is chewing its feet. What has changed on your walk? Is there salt down for the winter? Has something irritated the feet? Try washing them & changing the walk.

My Glen is scratching. Look at the protein percentage on the dog food sack. Try a food under 20%

My Glen is scratching. What age is it? Some Glens seem prone to what can best be termed “hormonal acne”. Treat as a teenager!

My Glen is scratching. One thing that Glens have shown problems with is fleas; do you have a cat?

My Glen is STILL scratching. Have you changed anything recently? Soap powder? Carpet cleaner? Food? If nothing coming to mind do get a veterinary opinion and if you are concerned at all you MUST speak with a vet.

Cancer

Is it a problem in Glens? As yet it isn’t known but more cases are being reported. Is this a sign of modern living or something happening to the breed that we aren’t aware of? IF your Glen is diagnosed with cancer please take the time to pass the information on; what you write in your cancer report may help another Glen!

Patella Luxation

A luxating patella is, basically, something not quite right with the dog’s knee-the alignment is wrong. Glens have short legs and a slightly different structure combined with a lot of muscle and weight. It would be quite easy for patella luxation to slip into the breed and not be realised. This is why some countries are beginning to test their Glens if any lameness (skipping/hopping on the back legs) is seen in their dogs. There is currently nothing that indicates achondroplasic breeds are more prone to this condition

The Glen of Imaal Terrier is, in general, a very healthy breed and many live a long life, with very infrequent visits to the veterinary surgery but if you DO have to visit your vet hopefully some of the things here will help you understand what they are talking about. Sooner or later you will have to finally say goodbye to your Glen, when the pain subsides please consider letting us know about it ALL Glens and their health are important!