Some common canine diseases that you should be aware of
Many pet owners are unaware of the dangerous pet diseases that can affect their beloved companions at any moment. Having a good knowledge of some common dog diseases will put you in a better position to deal with the symptoms in case they arise. Whether you have recently adopted a dog or you’re a seasoned pet owner, here are some of the major health concerns that you should look out for in your pet:
- Stomach Bloating
This is known as gastric torsion and it is a very common condition usually caused by hasty eating. This rapid intake of food causes swallowing of air which gets trapped in the dog’s stomach. Bloating causes abdominal swelling and the condition is worsened if the stomach turns as this prevents the trapped air from escaping.
Gastric torsion is most frequently witnessed in large breed dogs such as German Shepherd and Great Danes. Due to their broad chests, these large breed dogs can take in more air, thereby increasing their chances of bloating. Gastric torsion is usually manifested through an enlarged stomach, increased salivation and general body discomfort.
- Fungal diseases
From Valley Fever to Blastomycosis, there are many different fungal diseases that can affect your dog. Owing to their airborne mode of transmission, dogs inhale fungi-contaminated soil or dust which results in the infection. The extremity of fungal diseases varies greatly depending on the breed and immunity of the dog. Some may exclusively affect the skin while others cause damage in the entire body. Many times, fungal diseases are misdiagnosed and this can lead to the worsening of symptoms. Be sure to seek immediate medical attention in case you suspect that your dog has been infected by a fungus.
- Diarrhea
Diarrhea in dogs is a common condition that must be attended to immediately so as to avoid dehydration. This is especially common in puppies as they are very curious about their environment and may unknowingly swallow foreign objects. Mild cases can be treated by administering over-the-counter medicines for diarrhea in dogs. However, more severe cases should be investigated further as they may be an indication of a more serious gastrointestinal condition.
- Ear Infections
The unsightly curved edges of books are frequently referred to as dog ears. This amusing comparison alludes to the wide and flexible nature of canine ears. In spite of their cute appearance, the large surface area of your dog’s ears makes them susceptible to trapping harmful microorganisms which can cause ear infections. Vigorous head shaking and bloody discharge can indicate an ear infection in dogs. Apart from bacteria, this common ailment can also be caused by allergens and ear mites, hence it is extremely important for you to seek treatment as soon as these symptoms arise.
- Worm infestation
It can be quite difficult to control everything that your dog consumes and in some cases, intestinal parasites may invade your dog’s digestive system as a result of contaminated food or water. There are many different types of worms including hookworms, whipworms and roundworms among other varieties. Bloody stool as well as weight loss can be a strong indicator of worms. Be sure to regularly deworm your pet in order to prevent this problem.
Bio
Andrea Janice is a proud pet owner and blogger who has a passion for teaching people how to care for their canine companions. She volunteers at an animal shelter during her free time and has extensive knowledge concerning medicines for diarrhea in dogs.
Sponsored Post
Speak Your Mind