Abstract

A 16-year-old Nigeria indigenous dog was presented with history of weakness and coughing. On physical examination, respiratory rate, pulse rate, rectal temperature, packed cell volume and haemoglobin values were within the normal ranges. However, electrolyte values showed hyperkalemia. Electrocardiogram (ECG) revealed three consecutive constant PR-intervals before the elongation of PR-interval preceding the blocked P-wave. There was a conspicuous notch formation in QRS conformation in Leads III and aVL. However, following administration of vetzyme® (520 mg/day) for three weeks, the ECG revealed a gradual increase in PR-interval from 0.14-0.2 sec but no dropped P-wave. Given these findings, the abnormal ECG was interpreted as pseudo-Mobitz type II second degree AV-block with remission to first degree heart block. The remission of heart block may be partly related to effect of the vetzyme® supplement on muscle tone and antioxidant properties.

Key words: Heart block, antioxidants; Nigeria indigenous dog.