GSDs and enlarged spleens

[Dogs of Romance]

GSDS are known to have enlarged spleens

Splenomegaly is enlargement of the spleen. It is not a disease;
rather it is a clinical sign associated with an underlying disease
process or disorder. There are many underlying problems that may
cause splenomegaly.

The spleen has a number of functions. These include removing old or
damaged red blood cells and cell fragments from the bloodstream;
providing a reservoir for phagocytes that remove bacteria from the
blood; acting as a storehouse for blood; supporting antibody
synthesis; and producing red blood cells when the bone marrow fails
to produce a sufficient amount. Diseases and disorders that directly
or indirectly affect any of these functions may contribute to
splenomegaly.

There are many causes of splenomegaly. Systemic bacterial, fungal,
and parasitic infections affecting other organs and tissues may
affect the spleen as well and cause splenic enlargement. Diseases
that cause destruction of red or white blood cells or platelets and
the resulting anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia, respectively,
may, by a variety of pathophysiologic mechanisms, cause splenomegaly.
Processes that cause portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the
venous system of the liver) and congestive heart failure may lead to
splenic congestion and enlargement. Bleeding and hematoma formation
(bruising) in the spleen can enlarge it. Tumors such as hemangioma
and hemangiosarcoma, a common malignancy, can lead to splenomegaly.
Some primary problems of the spleen, such as splenic torsion, may
cause it as well.

The spleen is attached to the stomach by a ligament and series of
blood vessels, so if it enlarges it could theoretically cause stomach
torsion. Most surgeons do not recommend removal of the spleen as a
prophylactic measure for prevention of gastric dilitation/volvulus
syndrome (GDV), but there may be reason to do this if there are signs
of splenic enlargement, hematomas or hemangiosarcoma.

[BratBoxers]

I learned the other day from a wonderful long time show/breeder that to much fat protein in the diet is also one reason for spleen issues. Keeping the fat content at no more than 8% will reduce the risk in GSDs and Boxers.

[BratBoxers]

BTW here is the link DOR got her info from
http://www.westgeaugavet.com/showpra...=115&Private=0

[Dogs of Romance]

actually i did not get my info from that link it was sent to me via another email list i belong to. would you like me to post the original email? DO NOT say i got info from a certain link when you have zero idea where or how i actually got something. Making these kinds of assumptions is wrong. if you have questions you can allways ask.
I also have exclusive permission to use my info can you say the same?

Dax has asked that i edit my posts so anyone who wishes to see a copy of my contract and copyright with my co-writer on any of my posts from MY book please feel free to email me and i will sent scanned copies of both