Common Dog Diseases And Symptoms You Need To Watch Out For

By Geraldine Dimarco


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 a canine intestinal condition and is one of the deadliest and most common dog diseases. Canines catch this in unsanitary places. When infected fecal matter enters into their system, the virus spreads and shows itself right away. Significantly decreased appetite, bloody diarrhea, lethargy and vomiting are symptoms which must be addressed as soon as it manifests. Parvovirus is dangerous and fast-acting. A few days after the onset of the symptoms without proper treatment will result in the canine's demise.

Another extremely harmful disease caused by unsanitary surroundings is distemper. There is no cure found for distemper yet and there is only a fifty percent survival rate for adult dogs that catch this ailment. Symptoms that follow distemper include diarrhea, coughing, chest congestion and abnormal discharge from the eyes and nose of the dog.

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 canine disease that is the result of overeating or consuming food too fast. Overeating causes twisting of the stomach which in turn, cuts off the blood supply and traps gas. This is very painful for the dog and usually leads to a quick death. Be alert when your pet eats too fast and too much and look out for depression, dry heaves and restlessness.

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.

Knowing about these dog diseases and symptoms will help you treat your canine's needs appropriately. However, it must be said that preventive measures are far better so your pets do not have to undergo illness or discomfort at all. Exercise, diet and environment are factors to watch to keep them as healthy as possible.




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