Common Dog Diseases to Watch For

Dogs are the best pets and we all enjoy our carefree time with them. There are times though that they fall sick with common dog diseases; and we must be aware of these to be able to handle the situation appropriately. Listed are several dog diseases and symptoms you will do well to watch out for for early detection and treatment.

A common ailment that dogs, especially puppies, are susceptible to is heartworm. Heartworms are parasitic worms that are usually caused by mosquitoes and attacks the vital organs of the dog. When undetected and left untreated, the infected heart will progress to congestive heart failure. Observe the canine for cough and unusual signs of tiredness.

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.

The canine disease bloat is the result of the canine’s overeating. When this happens, their stomachs become twisted and it cuts off the vital blood supply as well as trapping gas. This is extremely painful for the animal and will typically lead to a quick death. Be watchful when your pet eats his meals that he doesn’t consume his food too fast. Indicators of bloat are depression, restlessness and dry heaving.

Findings show that a majority of dogs are inclined to be obese as they grow older. While obesity is not really fatal in itself, it is a complication to many medical conditions. Dogs that are too fat will suffer stress in their heart, liver and lungs. They will also be a high risk during surgery. A nutritional diet will benefit their over-all health.

The dog diseases and symptoms we have discussed will aid you to detect early on the ailment your dog may be having– bearing in mind though, that preventive measures are always better to implement. Strong and healthy dogs exercise often, live in a sanitary environment and has a good diet. Visit the vet for check-ups regularly.

Being aware of common dog diseases is essential to keep your pet as healthy as possible. Discover important information on dog diseases and symptoms that can help save your dog’s life one day.