Dogs need to be healthy too, but like us humans, they also get sick. Here is a list of some of the most common dog health problems:
Ticks are tiny bloodsuckers that live off the blood of mammals. These itchy little bugs are wingless parasites that have devices in their mouths that allow them to firmly anchor themselves while sucking off blood. The quick removal of ticks is important to stop Lyme disease before it can be transmitted. Removing the tick with your nails is not advisable as this can still leave the head behind. Special tweezer-like tick removers need to be used in order to make sure that the whole tick is taken out. Once the tick has been removed, antibiotic ointment is placed on the skin to soothe your pet.
To eliminate or minimize on tick infestation, grasses need to be trimmed down frequently. Fallen leaves need to be disposed of immediately. Spraying the outside area as well as his kennel with insecticide and washing his beddings frequently will also help. There are tick shampoos, tick colars and tick sprays to help dog owners. It also helps to have your dog vaccinated for Lyme disease.
Worms plague many a dog and dog owners worldwide. These parasites live internally and rob your dog by feeding off the essential vitamins and minerals they need in order to stay healthy. Worms lay eggs inside the intestine of dogs and are passed through their feces. This in turn can infect other dogs and human and the cycle begins again. If worms are left untreated they can cause serious harm to dogs and even stunt puppy growth.
Roundworms are the most common worm infestation in dogs. Some of the most common symptom of infestation is anemia, poor hair, diarrhea, bloated abdomen in puppies and poor weight gain. Transmission can be minimized when sanitation is implemented all around the home and surrounding areas. Dog poop should be removed immediately. Ensure that your hands are always clean when handling your pet. Furthermore if there is produce planted in the garden, proper washing should be observed. Dogs should also be checked for worms and de-wormed at regular intervals.
Canine Arthritis is another disease that afflicts man's best friend. Like humans dogs experience inflammation in their joints because of metabolic problems or infections. Dogs with arthritis often limp and have inflamed joints. They are reluctant to exercise and usually have a hard time getting up from a nap or sleep. This disease is commonly associated with bigger dogs but old dogs and even dogs as young as a year old can be afflicted with Arthritis.
Some of the causes of arthritis in dogs are: Wobbler's Syndrome and Hip Dysplasia. Ligament, tendon or muscular diseases also trigger arthritis. Fractures and inflammatory diseases can also contribute. Obesity will aggravate canine arthritis which is why weight should be monitored especially for the bigger dog breeds.
When you suspect that your dog is sick, it is imperative to book an appointment with the veterinarian as soon as possible. Health problems can also be avoided with proper nutrition and exercise. Vaccinations and shots should also be monitored at all times.
