Dog Health Problems, Symptoms, Questions, And Advice

Veterinarian Practicing Good Dog Health

The Importance Of Dog Health

Out of all of the areas that are studied in veterinary medicine, dog health is the most researched. Dogs are prime targets for infectious diseases, so as a current or future dog owner, it is extremely important to pay attention to dog health. If your dog has a disease, it cannot only be harmful to them, but to you, your family, and anyone else who comes in contact with your dog. The most popular dog disease is rabies. Rabies is extremely dangerous, but easily avoidable if you have your dog vaccinated. Speak with your local veterinarian for more information about vaccination.

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What Is Harmful To Your Dog's Health?

Rabies
Rabies is one of the most widely known infectious diseases in dogs. Rabies dates back to 1900 BC and has been a dog health concern ever since. In recent years, rabies has become less threatening in the United States and Europe because of strict vaccination laws. Rabies is most commonly transmitted by an infected dog, bat, or racoon through a bite. It is important to get any mammal bite checked immediately to guarantee the safety of your dog's health.

Viral Diseases
The most common viral disease is Rabies, but there is also herpesvirus, infectious canine hepatitis, parvovirus, influenza, and distemper. If you notice any strange behavior in your dog, you shouldn't wait around for any symptoms to appear. Most cases are best treated immediately and can prevent any serious problems affecting dog health.

Chihuahua With Veterinarian
Veterinarian Examining Golden Retriever Puppy

Parasites
The most common parasites for dogs are Fleas and Ticks. This may not sound like a big issue, but it can be potentially fatal for you and your family. Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can be contracted from these parasites. Luckily, there are many preventive measures that exist today in the marketplace that can keep you and your dog safe from fleas and ticks.

Eye Diseases
Eye diseases are extremely typical in dogs. Just like humans, dogs can contract glaucoma, cataracts, and entropion. Glaucoma is more frequent in purebred dogs than in any other species. Older canines are more prone to an intense form of vertigo than younger dogs. Symptoms include inability to stand, circling, and head tilting.

 

Top 5 Dog Health Tips

1) Pay close attention to any irregularities in your dog's behavior. If you notice anything different from their normal daily patterns, you should continue to look for additional symptoms. Write down anything strange you notice and call your veterinarian. Explain anything you have observed and follow any instructions your veterinarian may have.

2) Give your dog plenty of exercise. A lazy dog is neither a happy dog nor a healthy dog. If you are not providing your dog with daily exercise, it can be crucial to the stability of their health. There is no excuse for lack of dog exercise. If you live in a small house or apartment without a yard, you can take your dog outside on a leash for some fresh air. A simple daily walk can greatly improve your dog's respiratory health. Most veterinarians recommend two walks a day for ensured dog health.

3) Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian. If you have a seemingly healthy pup, it's always best to know what is going on underneath the surface. Visiting a veterinarian once or twice a year will be a great preventative measure to keep your dog's health in top shape.

4) Spay or Neuter your dog. This has been consistently proven that dogs who are spayed or neutered live longer, healthier lives. If you don't plan on breeding your dog like Dog Breeders, then it is best to go through with this procedure. It has also been said that neutering or spaying your dog greatly reduces wild behavior. Your dog will be much more tame and less aggressive towards strangers while in a calm environment. This will not reduce their drive to protect you.

5) Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Dogs drink a lot of water, so it is extremely important that they can get a drink any time they need to. It's great to get your dog into a habit of getting a drink of water after they go on a walk. Dog Walking will usually make your pooch very thirsty.

Last Updated: January 25th, 2008

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