September 13th: Pet Birth Defect Awareness

September 13th: Pet Birth Defect Awareness

Throughout the year awareness days for a variety of things pop up. From human health to animal health, these days draw our attention and provide us with more knowledge on less talked about subjects to help us create a healthier world for everyone. September 13th is dedicated to talking about Pet Birth-Defects. We’re huge advocates for all animals having equal opportunities for forever homes but we understand the difficulty that some birth defects can bring in the amount of care these animals need. Below we discuss how birth defects can be reduced in the breeding world but also that these pets aren’t actually so different and they make perfect companions!

Who is David Rogers?

David Rogers is founded this day in 2014. He founded this day to raise awareness about both animal’s physical health and mental health. After his own well-being suffered, he was gifted his little Chihuahua, Millie. She had an eye condition known as eye proptosis, not a birth defect, but it taught Rogers the amount of work looking after an animal with a medical condition takes. Inclusive of this, he also wanted to share how animals experience mental health issues like anxiety, compulsive disorders and depression explaining why we need to support our pets through these things too.

What is a birth defect?

A birth defect is something different in a mammals structural make up that can effect any part of their body. Defects can range from mild to severe, with some being able to live alongside a defect whereas others needing medication or surgery so it doesn’t impact their quality of life.

What causes a birth defect?

One of the biggest causes of birth defects is genetics. A mutation that has changed the function of a cell that then materialises as a defect visibly, internally or chemically. This also relates to chromosomal abnormalities but another cause of birth defects can be exposure to medication, infections during pregnancy or lack of nutrients during the pregnancy.

What can change the amount of birth defects in animals?

Prevention is key to lowering the amount of animals who have birth defects. Inbreeding and overbreeding are leading cause due to the stress of the mother and lack of genetic variation. Spaying and neutering pets helps regulate overpopulation allowing more animals to receive the care they need when they are pregnant and also ensure that no matter what happens, there is a loving home to receive these pets when they’re old enough to leave their mothers.

Is there treatment for birth defects?

Depending on the severity of the defect, there are treatments. Some pets grow out of certain things whilst others might need a surgeical or medication option. A pet with a birth defect can live a long, happy and healthy life with the love and care of its owners.

If you’d like to learn more about the charity that Rogers set up and about Millie’s influence on this you can find their story here: MBJungle Foundation