Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day is observed annually on September 13, to bring awareness about pet birth defects as well as their mental health. Pet birth defects can be caused by various things, but a responsible pet owner can help to avoid some causes. Inbreeding and over-breeding pets can cause the pet’s physical and behavioral problems.
According to National Today, Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day was established in 2014 by Davis Rogers, founder of MBJungle Foundation. MBJungle Foundation was dedicated to the memory of his mother who passed away on September 13, 1996. So, Rogers recognizes the date each year as Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day. The foundation’s mission is to bring awareness and educate the public about pet birth defects and pet mental health challenges.
Several common pet birth defects are cleft palates, limb deformities, and hernias. These abnormalities can be recognized at birth or shortly thereafter. Defects like dental problems may not be detected until your pets reach a particular stage of maturity. And, some other defects may not be recognizable for months or even years, and the pet may need a medical assessment from a vet. If there are abnormalities discovered, the vet can discuss treatment options. Common causes of birth defects in newborn pets include nutritional disorders, infectious diseases caught by the mother, and teratogens (chemical toxins).
Undernourished pregnant pet mothers can result in low birth or brain weight, behavioral abnormalities, and infant mortality. Calcium deficiency can cause skeletal abnormalities, particularly in giant dog breeds. If the mother is infected with parvovirus, fetal brain damage, fetal death, and growth retardation can occur. In addition, insecticides, fungicides, vaccines, and medications can also cause birth defects. Carbaryl, an insecticide found in some flea powders, can cause birth defects such as short jaws and no tails when used on the mother during pregnancy.
To help observe Pet Birth Defect Awareness Day, try learning more about pet birth defects and how to prevent them. Whether you’ve already adopted a pet or you’re about to adopt one, educate yourself about pet birth defects. If you have a pregnant pet, it’s viral to keep your pregnant pet mother healthy. Maintain her diet, and supplements, and be on the lookout for environmental contaminants. And finally, get your pet checked out by a trusted veterinarian. A vet can evaluate your pet for birth defects that may not be visible and discuss treatment options if abnormalities are discovered.
Just like humans, pets need love and care. Whether your pets have birth defects, this day is just another day to give them proper treatment. Animals with defects deserve just as much love as those without.
—
Photo Credit: Javier Brosch / Shutterstock.com