Dogs are definitely great animals to have around as pets. We usually equate them with fun and happy-go-lucky times, and well we should. However, we must be knowledgeable about the common dog diseases that may fall upon our dog so we will know how to treat them when the need arises. Here are several dog diseases and symptoms that we should avoid.
Heartworms are parasitic worms that infect the canine's heart and lungs. Mosquitoes are the primary culprit of this particular ailment. Notice if the dog has cough or is showing unusual fatigue-- these are signs that he has contracted heartworm. If they are untreated, the dog's condition may worsen to congestive heart failure.
Parvovirus is one of the most terminal and common dog diseases you must be aware of. Dirty and unsanitary living quarters are to blame for this ailment that attacks the intestines of the poor animal. When they come in contact with contaminated feces, virus sets in and the disease quickly escalates. Symptoms of decreased appetite, vomiting, intense diarrhea and lethargy will show right away. Because this disease is dangerous as it is fast, death will occur after a few short days when appropriate treatment is neglected.
Another deadly disease caused by unsanitary living condition is distemper. It has no cure and canines have a fifty percent chance of survival when they are infected. Symptoms of distemper include chest congestion, coughing, severe diarrhea and discharge from the canine's eyes and nose.
A canine viral disease that most people fear is rabies. Although it is more commonly associated with dogs, raccoons, bats and even cats are also susceptible to this disease. Rabies assaults the animal's nervous system and is spread through saliva. During the first stage the dog will be feverish and have slower eye reflexes. It will advance to aggressive behavior and the eventual failure of the canine's motor movements. When they do have rabies, you need to put them to sleep immediately.
Bloat is a dog disease that happens when the canine overeats or consumes his food too fast. The animal's stomach becomes twisted and this traps gas as well as cuts off the blood supply needed. This is really painful for the dog and will frequently lead to a fast death. Be attentive during mealtimes that your dog doesn't eat too quickly or too much at once. Some indicators of this disease are dry heaving, restlessness and depression.
Studies suggest that many of our dogs are prone to obesity. While obesity is not terminal in itself, it will prove to be a major detriment in their health. Obese dogs suffer more complications and will be a higher risk for surgery. Their vital organs will also have undue stress on them. A diet that meets all their nutritional requirements is valuable for their general well-being.
The above dog diseases and symptoms will help you arrest whatever condition your dog may have but establishing preventive measures is better. Keep them healthy and strong with exercise, a good diet, a clean environment and regular trips to the vet.
Heartworms are parasitic worms that infect the canine's heart and lungs. Mosquitoes are the primary culprit of this particular ailment. Notice if the dog has cough or is showing unusual fatigue-- these are signs that he has contracted heartworm. If they are untreated, the dog's condition may worsen to congestive heart failure.
Parvovirus is one of the most terminal and common dog diseases you must be aware of. Dirty and unsanitary living quarters are to blame for this ailment that attacks the intestines of the poor animal. When they come in contact with contaminated feces, virus sets in and the disease quickly escalates. Symptoms of decreased appetite, vomiting, intense diarrhea and lethargy will show right away. Because this disease is dangerous as it is fast, death will occur after a few short days when appropriate treatment is neglected.
Another deadly disease caused by unsanitary living condition is distemper. It has no cure and canines have a fifty percent chance of survival when they are infected. Symptoms of distemper include chest congestion, coughing, severe diarrhea and discharge from the canine's eyes and nose.
A canine viral disease that most people fear is rabies. Although it is more commonly associated with dogs, raccoons, bats and even cats are also susceptible to this disease. Rabies assaults the animal's nervous system and is spread through saliva. During the first stage the dog will be feverish and have slower eye reflexes. It will advance to aggressive behavior and the eventual failure of the canine's motor movements. When they do have rabies, you need to put them to sleep immediately.
Bloat is a dog disease that happens when the canine overeats or consumes his food too fast. The animal's stomach becomes twisted and this traps gas as well as cuts off the blood supply needed. This is really painful for the dog and will frequently lead to a fast death. Be attentive during mealtimes that your dog doesn't eat too quickly or too much at once. Some indicators of this disease are dry heaving, restlessness and depression.
Studies suggest that many of our dogs are prone to obesity. While obesity is not terminal in itself, it will prove to be a major detriment in their health. Obese dogs suffer more complications and will be a higher risk for surgery. Their vital organs will also have undue stress on them. A diet that meets all their nutritional requirements is valuable for their general well-being.
The above dog diseases and symptoms will help you arrest whatever condition your dog may have but establishing preventive measures is better. Keep them healthy and strong with exercise, a good diet, a clean environment and regular trips to the vet.
About the Author:
Learn the facts about dog diseases and especially Lyme Disease in dogs, waste no more time - go to HealthyHappyDogs.com for more info.
