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Tonsils
Jun 6, 2020 21:34:34 GMT 10
Post by Tony on Jun 6, 2020 21:34:34 GMT 10
Hi tom. Just wondering for your views on tonsils. Over here in Ireland it seems as though getting tonsils taken out is seen as a sure way to improve a dog even if not showing any signs of them causing problems. I know of a few trainers who get them taken out no matter what. But I am of the opinion that they are there for a reason. Looking forward to your reply on the topic. Thanks, tony.
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Post by Tom Meulman on Jun 7, 2020 4:37:55 GMT 10
Hi Tony,
I think that most people understand that the tonsils are part of the immune system, and part of the first defense against many pathogens.
They trap bacteria and viruses that enter the mouth or nose and contain the immune cells that produce antibodies to either kill them, or assist in triggering an immune reaction in the rest of the body to fight off an infection.
However, while they are an integral part of the immune system, the body can function quite well without them, and yes in many circumstances they can be a continuous source of irritation to keeping a racing greyhound performing at their best.
The problem being that whenever the tonsils act as a first defense against bacteria and viruses they enlarge, and in many instances even when the infection has been fought off they stay enlarged and protrude outside of the fold that is supposed to contain them.
This unfortunately can have the effect of interfering with not only the dogs breathing, but because of the heaving of air over the area while the dogs is running they are continually irritated, and often an ongoing source of low level pain to the dog. The other problem being is that dogs will be dogs and often lick areas containing large amounts of bacteria, thereby reinfecting the tonsils.
While I’m certainly not in favour of unnecessary medical procedures, I can understand why many trainers would rather have the tonsils removed before starting a greyhound on a racing career.
One word of warning in regard to tonsil surgery.
Because the surgery is in the throat, it’s not possible to use the extremely safe intubation method of anesthesia, and other drugs are used to attain this state. These drugs may cause health problems with a greyhound that has had a fair amount of racing or hard work, and who’s biological system is still under stress as a result. Particularly if it involves kidney function or some degree of dehydration.
I therefore believe it’s best that a greyhound is spelled for 14 days prior to this type of surgery, and sufficient recovery time is allowed before commencing them back in work.
Cheers, Tom
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Tonsils
Jun 7, 2020 19:01:25 GMT 10
via mobile
Post by Tony on Jun 7, 2020 19:01:25 GMT 10
Thanks Tom. Very interesting. I have a dog just about to start racing and am in two minds as to either take the tonsils out or wait until they/if ever become infected.
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Tonsils
Jun 7, 2020 19:18:06 GMT 10
Post by Tom Meulman on Jun 7, 2020 19:18:06 GMT 10
Thanks Tom. Very interesting. I have a dog just about to start racing and am in two minds as to either take the tonsils out or wait until they/if ever become infected. Hi Tony, If the dog is just about ready to race I would forget about having the tonsils out until it’s absolutely necessary. I raced a large number of greyhounds over a 50 year period, and in all that time only had five that definitely needed to have their tonsils removed. Cheers, Tom
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