What is the Rage Syndrome?

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I came across an interesting article recently.  It spoke of a research project in Holland, in which Rottweiler dogs were being selectively bred to make them more docile and less aggressive.  The research proved that Rottweilers can be more easily trained if only those dogs that are relatively more easy-going are bred.

 The research conducted by the Dutch Kennel Club, found that, after selective breeding, only seven percent of the selectively bred dogs displayed aggressive nature while 16% of the regular Rottweilers were found to be aggressive!

 As a part of this scheme, dogs that fail the docility test are not accorded pedigree status, and the owners of these dogs are told not to breed them.  This attempt will surely scale down the number of incidents reported, of dogs attacking people and animals without provocation. 

 One of the most significant reasons of unprovoked attack could also be the Rage Syndrome that affects dogs.

 What is the Rage Syndrome?

It is a behavioral problem which is known to affect specific dog breeds.  It occurs rarely, but is a problem for serious concern.  German Shepherd, American Cocker Spaniel, Doberman, St Bernard, Pyrenean Mountain, and the English Bull Terrier are some breeds known to exhibit the syndrome, though only a very small percentage are known to exhibit the disorder.  .  . 

Causes

• There is a probable genetic factor leading to the ailment
• There are a few theories for the causes: thyroid malfunction, epilepsy related disorder, low serotonin levels, or a canine form of schizophrenia

A dog affected by the disorder exhibits these symptoms

• Eyes change color or become glassy or glazed
• Stares at nothing in particular
• Attacks without reason
• Bites without warning
• Attacks soon after a nap
• Appears mean and dangerous for a few moments
• Appears disoriented after an attack, for a short period
• Becomes normal quite soon, and is unaware of his earlier, abnormal behavior

Treatment

• Administration of Vitamin B12 supplements
• Neutering dogs to contain aggression
• Preparing more nutritionally balanced meals for the dog
• Behavior modification therapy
• Consulting the vet for examination, diagnosis and treatment with administration of medications like d-amphetamine and Megestrol acetate

The ailment is treated in one, or a combination of these methods.  Treatment varies from one dog to another

Management

• Avoid stressful situations for the dog
• Prepare more nutritionally balanced meals for the dog
• Consult the vet when symptoms are observed
• Arrange for thyroid level tests
• Keep a good Dog Health Guide  handy, that tells you all you need to know about your pet’s health.
   

Sometimes, for severely affected dogs, euthanasia is considered, rather than trying to manage them in rescue shelters.

10 Questions you should Ask yourself Before you Buy a Dog

Hundreds of thousands of puppies drive away with their new owners to a new home and a new life…

Many of them lead a wonderful life, like Johnny.  He is the center of attraction in his home.  When you love and care for the animal, he reciprocates as Johnny does.  The beautiful Labrador puppy follows his master all round the house and thinks the world of him. 

He responds well to training, knows the rules of the house and manages to be the favorite of all at home with his finely balanced sense of good behavior, mischief, and his daring and charming ways. 

Not all dogs are as lucky as Johnny.  So many many dogs are given away after they are brought home.  The reason could be just about anything! “The dog doesn’t listen to me!” say some…”Oh! He never grew to the size I wanted him to!” says others.  Dogs that bark excessively, dogs in homes where a new baby is expected, dogs that whine too much are all sent away by people who initially tell you that they simply “adore” dogs.

There are hundreds of rescue shelters that provide a home for these abandoned animals.  One such rehabilitation center, near Manila, Philippines, organized a fundraising event to help provide for the 500 dogs and cats that are looked after here.  Dogs dressed as Santa Claus was one of the delightful highlights of this program. Almost all animals here have been rescued from conditions of abandonment or cruelty!

Is it not important that you do a reality check before you venture out to get that “dog you always wanted to have”?

Answer these questions honestly to yourself  

1. Do you have the commitment to rear the pet?

2. Are you ready to spend enough for buying the dog and his subsequent care? Does that fit into your budget?

3. Are you patient enough to house-break, crate-train and teach him to obey you, being patient when the dog is disobedient or obstinate?

4. Are you prepared to enroll him in a dog training school so that he learns to obey you, in case you do not have the time/expertise to train him yourself

5. Are you certain you will be only firm, but not cruel when trying to correct him or teach him? Will you always be generous with praise and rewards for a well mannered obedient dog?

6. Are you willing to provide him good quality, nutritious and balanced meals and nutritional supplements all through his life?

7. Are you ready to meet the cost of the veterinary care for the dog, be it his shots, or for his treatment if he falls ill? 

8. Are you willing to put in extra effort to care for him, in his illness and in his old age?

9. Do you and your family have the time for taking him for walks, playing and spending quality time with him?

10. Are you sure that no member of your household is allergic to dogs?

If your answer is “yes” to all the questions, what are you waiting for?  It is time you ushered in your doggie companion home.