The health of your dog is an important issue that you must take care of. When your dog is unhealthy, it can cause serious problems for your family. Fortunately, you can find out what dogs have health issues and how to treat them.
Dehydration
Dehydration is an important dog health problem, and it can be very dangerous if left untreated. It can lead to heat stroke, kidney failure, and issues with joints and digestion.
The best way to ensure that your dog stays hydrated is to make sure that you have a big bowl of water available for him to drink. Ideally, you should also give him a travel bowl. If you aren’t able to get him a large bowl, just offer him a small amount of water every few hours.
Some of the early signs of dehydration in your pet are a swollen tongue and loose skin. You should also check their gums, which should turn white when pressed.
Ear infections
Ear infections can cause serious problems. It is important to know what they are and how they can be treated. In addition to causing pain, an ear infection can lead to damage to the outer ear canal. The condition is very sensitive, so treatment should be started as soon as it is noticed.
If your dog is suffering from an ear infection, you should see a veterinarian immediately. They can help determine the cause and prescribe the best medications for your pet’s needs.
An ear infection is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria and yeast. The bacteria causes a yellow or brown discharge that may be very foul.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a type of eye disease. It occurs when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and prevents light from getting to the retina. Although they may not cause vision loss, they do reduce a dog’s ability to see.
Fortunately, cataracts are treatable. The best thing is to catch them early. In fact, most owners choose to manage the condition rather than have surgery.
Cataracts can occur in dogs and are often associated with old age. Genetics play a part. If you are worried that your pet has a cataract, talk to your veterinarian. There are several tests your vet can perform to determine whether the condition is present.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a chronic and painful disease that affects dogs. It is the result of an interaction between the host’s defense mechanisms and subgingival plaque microorganisms. The disease can lead to gum infections and bone loss.
Dental care diets help maintain a healthy mouth. Regular tooth brushing and dental cleaning are recommended by veterinarians. Using pet-safe enzymatic toothpaste may also prevent tartar accumulation. Chew toys and dental wipes can also keep tartar from accumulating.
Dogs that are at risk for periodontitis should have full mouth x-rays performed. A veterinarian can diagnose the condition, and he or she will prescribe treatment, which may include oral swabs.
Skin irritation
Skin irritation in dogs can be caused by many different factors. Some common causes include parasites, allergies, and other health conditions. The good news is that most of these are treatable. However, it’s best to see your vet if you suspect your pet has a skin condition.
Skin problems in dogs are usually mild, but can sometimes become more serious. For example, itchy, cracked, and inflamed skin can indicate a bacterial or fungal infection.
Dogs with atopic dermatitis can benefit from antimicrobial shampoos. This helps to relieve the itchy, red, and puffy skin.
Overweight
Dog obesity is a major health problem. It can affect a dog’s health in many ways, from increased risk of cancer to difficulty breathing. Even if the dog does not show obvious signs, it is important to get it checked out.
Obesity is generally caused by feeding your dog too much food or not allowing it to move around enough. Overweight dogs tend to have a shorter lifespan than lean counterparts. In addition, obesity can cause an increased risk of developing heart disease, liver cancer and pancreatitis.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help your dog lose weight. One of the first steps to take is a food diary. This will allow you to track exactly what your dog is eating and how much.
Kennel cough
Kennel cough is a common type of respiratory disease that is often caused by multiple viruses. It usually clears up on its own within three weeks, but it can also progress to pneumonia.
Depending on the cause of kennel cough, there are various treatment options available. However, the best solution is to avoid exposing your dog to other dogs. This can be done by quarantining your dog for at least two weeks after the infection has cleared up.
To prevent the spread of kennel cough, you should also avoid sharing water bowls and toys. Make sure that all items are clean and disinfected.